How long do cats sleep?

Cats sleep about 16-20 hours a day; kittens and seniors sleep 18-20, adults about 16. This is normal because much of it is light dozing (half-asleep), which restores little energy, so cats spend most of their non-eating, non-playing time asleep. But a sudden increase with reduced appetite or abnormal stools may signal illness - watch for other symptoms and see a vet if abnormal.

The Curious Sleep Positions of Cats

Cats seem to sleep all day, but about three-quarters of their 16–20 hours is light dozing; true deep sleep is only 4–5 hours. Sleep cycles through four stages—onset, light, deep, and dream (REM)—where growth hormone repairs the body. Positions reveal mood: the loaf (alert but resting), the curl (cozy and secure), side-sleeping (deeply relaxed, may dream-kick), and the belly-up surrender (total trust). Reading the pose tells you how safe and calm your cat feels.