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Fluffy’s Napping Obsession

August 15, 2016

Did you know that cats can sleep up to 20 hours a day? Our feline friends certainly do enjoy their beauty rest! Read on as a local Thorold, ON vet discusses Fluffy’s fondness for sleeping.

Beds

One of the best things you can do for your drowsy pet is to offer her lots of comfy napping spots. Fluffy may take her morning nap in one bed, and then may rotate through her other sleeping spots for her late morning, noon, afternoon, and evening naps, before finally picking a spot to settle in for the night. You don’t have to spend a fortune on kitty beds, however. Look online for great DIY options.

Why Cats Sleep So Much

Cats sleep more than almost any other mammal on the planet. Theoretically, this is because kitties burn massive amounts of energy hunting, and need to recharge after catching their dinners. However, we’re not entirely convinced that all that shuteye is really necessary. After all, most other predators do just fine with less excessive amounts of sleep. Perhaps Fluffy never got that memo.

Dozing

To be fair, Fluffy isn’t always sound asleep. Cats still process sounds while they’re dozing. This is why when you call your sleeping pet’s name, you may see her ears move in response.

Life Stages And Sleep

Your kitty’s sleeping habits will change as she grows. Kittens need plenty of shuteye. After all, looking adorable is hard work! Plus, little Fluffy has lots of growing to do. Cats’ bodies release growth hormones during sleep, so baby furballs spend lots of time catching Z’s. Adult cats usually sleep about 16 hours a day. When your pet becomes a senior, she’ll start sleeping even more than that.

Cute Sleep Facts

Did you know that kitties sleep even more than usual when it’s raining out? Cats also often sync their sleeping habits to their owners’ sleep patterns, presumably so they can spend more quality time with their human servants.

Dreams

Have you ever seen your sleeping kitty’s whiskers or paws moving, and wondered if she was dreaming? She very well may have been! Studies have shown that cats do dream. As to what they dream about, well, that’s anyone’s guess. However, we suspect giant catnip mice, boxes, and trees may be in the mix.

Is your cat due for a veterinary exam? Contact us, your Thorold, ON animal hospital, today!