Do Cats Sleep More in Winter?

If it feels like your cat has spent most of the winter napping, you’re not imagining things. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and cozy indoor environments can all add up to one very sleepyfeline.

Is there another reason winter seems to make your cat sleep more? Is it just increased darkness and coziness? Let’s look at some of the science.

Cats Definitely Sleep More in Winter

Cats are already expert sleepers, averaging 12 to 16 hours a day, but in the dark and cold daysof winter, that number can go even higher. In the wild, cats naturally slow down to preserve their energy, favouring warmth and rest over activity in the cold. It’s not laziness, it’s biology!

Circadian Rhythms

One of the biggest factors behind winter sleepiness is reduced daylight. Cats, like humans, are influenced by circadian rhythms – our internal clocks that respond to light. It is because of circadian rhythms that animals know when to shed their summer/winter coats, and grow new ones!

When days grow shorter:

• Melatonin production increases

• Activity levels decrease

• Sleep cycles lengthen

Your cat doesn’t read calendars, but their body absolutely notices when the sun sets earlier. But also, cozy homes encourage cozy behaviour. If your house is super cozy, and your cats love to lounge, then congratulations, you are a great cat owner! You have provided them with ample opportunities to relax, take a nap, and destress.

Is My Cat Sleeping Too Much?

In most cases, extra winter sleep is completely normal. However, it’s worth paying attention to your cat’s overall health.

A healthy cat looks like:

• Normal appetite

• Interest in play when awake

• Regular grooming

• Alertness during active periods

You may want to check in with your vet if increased sleep comes with:

• Lethargy or disinterest in food

• Weight loss or gain

• Changes in litter box habits

• Withdrawal or hiding behaviour