Do domestic shorthair cats sleep a lot?

Yes, domestic shorthair cats sleep a lot, but this isn’t particularly different from other cat breeds. On average, cats sleep anywhere from 12 to 18 hours a day, which can vary based on their age, health, and activity levels.

Young kittens, for instance, tend to sleep even more than adult cats. They can easily sleep 20 to 22 hours a day, while older kittens can sleep up to 20 hours. This extensive sleep is crucial for their growth and development, as their bodies and brains are rapidly developing during this stage.

Mature adult cats typically sleep between 12 and 18 hours a day. Their sleep patterns might fluctuate based on their daily activity levels and their environment. A well-exercised cat might sleep on the lower end of this range, while a more sedentary cat could sleep more.

Senior cats often experience changes in their sleep patterns. They may sleep more than they did in their younger years, sometimes up to 20 hours a day. This increase in sleep can be due to a decrease in energy levels, as well as potential health issues that can affect their activity and alertness.