Kittens have well-deserved reputations as being vibrant and unstoppable little balls of energy, and while that certainly is often true, they also have a side to them that is totally different -- the sleepy side. Although felines in general are rather sleep-happy creatures, baby kittens take things to another level.
Newborn Kittens and Sleeping a Lot
Newborn or "baby" kittens are undoubtedly serious about sleeping. Their daily routine consists predominantly of sleeping, and when they're not sleeping, they're probably nursing. Sleeping constitutes approximately 90 percent of kittens' days. The little ones aren't too shy about alerting others of their hunger once they awake from their seemingly endless naps, either. When kittens cry after waking up, it usually means that their bellies are empty and it's time for nursing.
Slightly Older Kittens
Once kittens are a few weeks old and out of the newborn stage of nearly constant sleeping, they tend to be asleep for between 60 and 70 percent of each 24 hour period -- much more than the average sleeping time of fully mature felines. Elderly cats often have kittens beat in that department, however. If a cat is on the older side, do not be surprised if he spends over three-quarters of his life peacefully sound asleep.
Adult Cats
Kittens are usually considered to be "adults" when they're around 12 months in age. Although adult cats usually don't sleep as much as kittens, they too can boast pretty impressive shut-eye hours. Normal mature cats that are fit as a fiddle often sleep for between 13 and 18 hours daily. If you ever notice any patterns in any kitten or adult cat's sleeping routine that seem unusual or excessive to you, however, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with the veterinarian.
Kitten Sleeping Style
If you frequently check up on your sleeping kittens' sleeping habits and times, you may notice that they usually are off in dreamland with their tiny bodies huddled up closely. This may look adorable, but it also has a useful purpose, and that is helping the little cuties conserve their precious body heat.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.
