How much should your kitten sleep?

So you’ve got a new kitten. And all they seem to do is sleep. A cat nap is one thing. But is it normal for them to sleep so much? And what if they’re not sleeping enough? 

Let’s get our claws into kitten sleep patterns. And what you should do if something seems off.

Kittens are sleeping champions. And not because they’re lazy. (Though it might look that way.) Here’s what’s normal:

0-3 weeks: 22 hours a day. They’re growing rapidly, and sleep is crucial for their development. So they only really wake up to feed.

From 3 weeks: 18-20 hours a day. To leave some time for exploring.

6 months: 16-18 hours a day. But will be more active during their waking hours.

Kittens sleep a lot because their bodies are in overdrive: developing muscles, bones, and their nervous system. Sleep is when their body does the heavy lifting of growing. It’s also crucial for their immune system and overall health.

While it’s normal for kittens to sleep a lot, there are times when you might need to worry. Here’s what to watch for:

Sleeping Too Much

If your kitten seems to be sleeping more than usual. Is hard to wake up. Or seems lethargic when awake? It could be a sign of:

Illness: Infections, parasites, or other health issues can make your kitten sleep more than usual. Look for other signs. Like lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, or respiratory issues.

Poor nutrition: Ensure your kitten is eating a balanced diet appropriate for their age. (KatKin’s fresh recipes are suitable for cats of all ages – kittens included.) Malnutrition can lead to excessive sleep.

Dehydration: Check if your kitten is drinking enough water. Dehydration can make them sluggish and sleepy. Keep in mind that cats in the wild get most of their moisture from their food. Which is why our fresh recipes have a high moisture content.

Sleeping Too Little

Kittens not getting enough sleep can be just as concerning. Signs include:

Restlessness: If your kitten seems agitated or unable to settle, something might be wrong.

Frequent Crying: Persistent crying can indicate discomfort or pain.

Hyperactivity: While kittens are naturally playful, extreme hyperactivity can signal anxiety or other issues.

If you’re concerned about your kitten’s sleep patterns, here’s your action plan:

Step One: Monitor Their Sleep 

Keep track of how much and when your kitten sleeps. Note any changes in patterns.

Step Two: Check Their Environment 

Make sure their sleeping area is comfortable, quiet, and safe. Sometimes, a stressful environment can disrupt sleep.

Step Three: Observe for Other Symptoms 

Look for signs of illness such as changes in appetite, behaviour, or physical symptoms like vomiting or diarrhoea.

Step Four: Ensure Proper Nutrition

Feed them a high-quality, age-appropriate diet like KatKin’s fresh recipes. Nutrition plays a huge role in their energy levels and overall health.

Step Five: Hydration 

Make sure they have constant access to fresh water. Dehydration can affect sleep and overall well-being.

Step Six: Consult Your Vet

If something doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. It’s better to be safe and have your kitten checked out.

Kittens sleep a lot, and that’s perfectly normal. Their little bodies are working hard to grow and develop And sleep is a critical part of that process. But, if you notice significant changes in their sleep patterns, pay attention. Too much or too little sleep can indicate underlying health issues.

Stay vigilant. Provide a comfortable environment. And keep an eye on their overall health. If in doubt, your vet is your best resource to ensure your kitten grows into a healthy, happy adult cat. Now, let your kitten get back to what they do best — afternoon naps.