If your cat spends most of the day snoozing, you're not alone in wondering if it's normal. Especially if they're sleeping more than they used to, or choosing odd places to curl up.
In this blog, we’ll explain what’s normal when it comes to feline sleep habits - and when extra shut-eye could actually be a warning sign that something’s wrong.
How much sleep is normal for cats?
Most cats sleep between 12 and 18 hours a day, with older cats often snoozing for even longer. In fact, the only animals that sleep more than cats are bats and opossums!
Cats are crepuscular, which means they’re most active during dawn and dusk. They’ll often nap during the day and again at night, waking for short bursts of activity.
But not all sleep is equal. It’s normal for cats to nap lightly with their ears twitching, but deep sleep is more restorative - and that’s where their overall health can start to affect things.
When is sleep a cause for concern?
If your cat is sleeping more than usual, or their sleep pattern has changed suddenly, it’s worth paying attention. Here are some red flags:
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They seem unusually hard to rouse
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They avoid interaction or hide more often
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They’re sleeping in different locations (especially hard-to-reach or quiet spots)
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They’re restless at night and pacing in the day
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They’ve stopped grooming themselves properly
All of these can be subtle signs of stress, pain, or an underlying health issue - especially in older cats.
Could it be pain?
Pain and discomfort are often mistaken for laziness or old age in cats. But many cats who appear to be ‘just sleeping more’ are actually withdrawing because they’re sore, stiff, or uncomfortable.
If your cat is also:
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Hesitating to jump onto furniture
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Toileting outside the litter tray
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Less interested in play or movement
...then joint pain, like arthritis, could be the reason.
For more help spotting subtle signs of pain in cats, check out our full blog: 15 Signs of Pain (or Stress) in Cats
Could it be boredom or stress?
Cats who lack stimulation or feel unsafe may also sleep more. If your cat is alone most of the day, lacks toys or enrichment, or is exposed to loud noises or changes in the home, they may be choosing sleep as a way to shut down.
When to speak to your vet
If your cat's sleep has changed recently, or you're seeing other behaviour changes too, it's always worth checking in with your vet. You know your cat best - and you're more likely than anyone to notice when something feels off.
Take note of:
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Any changes in sleep pattern
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Appetite, grooming or toileting differences
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How your cat moves and interacts
And don't forget: bringing video footage to your vet can be incredibly helpful.
How Zooomy can help
If arthritis or joint pain is affecting your cat's comfort, Zooomy is a liquid joint supplement designed to ease stiffness and support mobility - without the stress of giving pills.
Zooomy is:
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Tasteless and odourless (easy to mix with food)
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Safe for cats with pancreatitis, diabetes or allergies
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A gentle daily way to support joint health
Many Zooomy customers report that their cat becomes more active, playful and engaged once joint pain is addressed.
Final thoughts
Cats do love to sleep - but if something doesn’t feel quite right, don’t ignore your instincts. Subtle shifts in sleep could be the first sign your cat needs support.
The good news? With the right treatment, most cats bounce back beautifully.
