Letting Kittens Sleep: How Much Is Too Much?

Kittens sleep a lot. Up to 22 hours a day for newborns, and 18-20 hours a day for 8-week-olds. This is because they're growing, and that takes a lot of energy. It's also normal for a kitten to sleep more when they're in a new environment.

Sleep is essential for a kitten's development, helping them grow up healthy and happy, and even preventing illness later in life. So, if your kitten is sleeping all day, it's probably fine. However, if they're not eating and drinking normally, or having gastrointestinal issues, it could be a sign of a medical issue, and you should consult your vet.

Is it normal for my kitten to sleep so much?

Kittens are known to sleep a lot, and this is perfectly normal. They can sleep up to 18 to 20 hours a day, and this is essential for their development. Their bodies are growing, and this requires a lot of energy.

Kittens are also very active, especially when they are awake. They are energetic and hyper, and this can be seen in their behaviour when they are not sleeping. They zoom around, play with toys, and generally exhibit a lot of energy.

As they get older, they will calm down a bit and sleep even more. So, if you have a new kitten that is sleeping a lot, there is no need to worry. Enjoy the peace while it lasts!

How much sleep do kittens need?

Kittens sleep a lot—up to 18 to 20 hours a day. This is because their bodies are growing, which takes a lot of energy. Sleep is essential for a kitten's development, helping them to grow up healthy and happy.

Newborn kittens sleep even more, sleeping up to 22 hours a day. This is because their brains and central nervous systems are developing, and their muscles and bones are strengthening. Sleep also keeps their immune system in good shape.

As kittens get older, they will calm down a bit and sleep even more. On average, kittens over six months old and adult cats sleep around 16 to 18 hours a day.

Why do kittens sleep so much?

Kittens sleep a lot—up to 18 to 20 hours a day—because their bodies are growing, which requires a lot of energy. They also sleep to conserve energy for hunting, as they are carnivores and need to catch prey to eat.

Sleep is essential to a kitten's development and can even help them fight off illness later in life. As they age, kittens will sleep less, but will still sleep a lot—on average, 16 to 18 hours a day for kittens over six months and adult cats.

Is it bad if my kitten sleeps all day?

Kittens are known to sleep a lot, so it's not necessarily a bad thing if your kitten sleeps all day. In fact, it's quite normal for a kitten to sleep up to 18-20 hours a day, as their bodies are growing and this requires a lot of energy.

The amount of sleep a kitten needs will decrease as they get older, but they will still sleep a lot even as adults. On average, kittens over 6 months and adult cats sleep around 16-18 hours a day.

However, if you notice that your kitten is sleeping more than usual or seems lethargic, it could be a sign of a medical issue. It's important to monitor your kitten's behaviour and look out for any additional signs, such as a change in eating or drinking habits, or gastrointestinal issues. If you are concerned, it's always best to consult your veterinarian.

How can I get my kitten to sleep through the night?

Kittens need a lot of sleep, with 8-week-old kittens sleeping up to 18 to 20 hours a day. As they get older, they will calm down a bit and sleep even more. It is important to let them have this peaceful time as it is key to their development and can even help them fight off illness later in life.

Kittens are crepuscular, meaning they are generally active at dawn and dusk. When you add to this the unfamiliar environment of a new home, you can expect a few longer nights than usual.

• Tire them out with play: Schedule a play session close to their last nap of the day so they can expend all that extra energy before going to bed. Try different cat toys or come up with fun games that allow them to hone their hunting skills.
• Feed them before bed: Kittens will often go to sleep to allow their digestive systems to go to work, so switching up their mealtime so they get a late meal can help. Be mindful of the calorie count if you plan on introducing an extra or larger meal to their diet.
• Introduce familiar objects: Having something that smells familiar, like a favourite blanket, can be a huge step towards getting a kitten to sleep at night.
• Create a cosy sleeping environment: Kittens gravitate towards warmth and coziness when they want to sleep. Choose a comfy bed with high sides so they can keep their favourite toys close by. Don't forget to add soft blankets and make sure their litter tray, water and food bowls are not too far away. You can also try flipping over a laundry basket and placing their bed securely on top to elevate them slightly off the floor.
• Keep them close: It's a good idea to have your kitten close to you for the first few nights. Find a cozy area next to your bed. Kittens feel safer in higher places, so an elevated cat bed might be beneficial.
• Mimic their mother's heartbeat: Toys that mimic their mother's heartbeat can help soothe them to sleep. You can also bundle an old, soft t-shirt in their bed so they’re comforted by your scent at night.
• Be patient: It's a whole new world for these little ones, and you are the centre of that world. It's natural for them to be up at night or early in the morning and want to spend their waking time with you. Being patient and using positive reinforcement will help deepen your bond.

Frequently asked questions