How Much Do Kittens Sleep? Normal Sleep Patterns by Age
A kitten alternates between whirlwind chaos and sudden collapse. One minute it is attacking your feet, the next it is asleep in a pile of laundry. This pattern is normal, and a sign that your kitten is healthy.
How much sleep is normal
- Newborns to two weeks: about 90 percent of the time asleep, waking mainly to nurse.
- Two to eight weeks: sixteen to twenty hours, with short bursts of play.
- Two to six months: around sixteen to eighteen hours.
- Six to twelve months: fourteen to sixteen hours.
- Adults: twelve to sixteen hours.
See why do cats sleep so much.
Why kittens sleep so much
- Growth. Growth hormone is released mostly during deep sleep. Bones, muscles and the brain develop quickly.
- Energy. Kittens burn calories fast, and sleep restores energy.
- Learning. Sleep helps consolidate memory.
- Hunting rhythm. Cats are crepuscular, meaning most active at dawn and dusk. They rest between bursts.
- Safety. Many short sleeps allow quick wake-up to threats.
Types of sleep
Kittens have light dozing, when ears twitch and they can wake quickly, and deep sleep, when they twitch, paddle and whimper as they dream. This is normal. See do cats dream.
Where kittens sleep
Kittens like warm, enclosed spots near people. Provide a soft bed or box in a quiet area, away from drafts. Some will curl up on you, or sleep in odd positions. See why do cats sleep in strange positions and how to choose a cat bed.
Night energy
Kittens often wake at night or at dawn, ready to play, because of their natural rhythm. To help:
- Play hard in the evening, with a wand toy for ten to fifteen minutes. See how to play with a kitten.
- Feed a small meal after play.
- Keep the bedroom boring at night, and do not respond to every cry.
- Provide toys to keep the kitten busy.
- Use an automatic feeder to avoid early-morning wake-ups.
- Be consistent.
See kitten crying at night and how to stop a cat waking you up early.
Keeping sleep safe
- Avoid beds with loose cords or fillings that can be swallowed.
- Keep the kitten away from heating pads without safety features.
- Check dryers, washers and drawers before closing.
- Do not let very young kittens sleep in a bed with adults, if you might roll on them.
- Keep temperature comfortable.
When sleepiness is a worry
A kitten is not just sleepy if:
- It is hard to wake, limp or weak.
- It feels cold.
- It will not eat.
- It has labored breathing.
- It has diarrhea or vomiting.
- It does not play when awake.
- Gums are pale.
Contact a vet at once. See kitten not eating and cat emergency warning signs.
Sleep after vaccines
A little extra sleepiness for a day after vaccines is normal. See kitten vaccine schedule and core shots.
Orphan kittens
Orphans need warmth and frequent feeding. See how to bottle feed a kitten.
Sleep and development
Good sleep supports learning, play and socialization. Do not wake kittens for handling when they are deeply asleep. Let them rest. See how to socialize a kitten.
Routine
A predictable day of meals, play and quiet time helps kittens settle. See cat daily routine schedule.
Respecting rest
Teach children that a sleeping kitten should be left alone, and give the kitten quiet places to retreat. Kittens that cannot rest properly may become cranky, bite more and have trouble growing. A calm routine, with play followed by food and then a nap, matches their natural rhythm. Over time, many kittens shift toward sleeping more at night as they adapt to your household.
When your kitten seems too sleepy
Compare with your kitten's normal. A kitten that suddenly sleeps far more, or does not respond when you call, should see a vet the same day.
Sleep and the environment
Kittens sleep best in a warm, quiet and predictable place. Keep the bed away from loud appliances and busy walkways, use a soft blanket that you can wash, and provide a hiding spot. Many kittens enjoy a ticking clock, white noise or gentle music, though silence also works. If you share space with other pets, make sure the kitten has a place where it will not be disturbed.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your kitten is unusually sleepy or weak. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for kittens to sleep all day?
Yes, up to twenty hours a day while growing.
Why is my kitten awake at night?
Cats are most active at dawn and dusk, and kittens have bursts of energy.
Should I wake a sleeping kitten?
Not usually, unless it is mealtime for a very young kitten.
When is sleepiness a problem?
If the kitten is limp, cold, not eating or hard to wake.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
- WSAVA Global GuidelinesGlobal vaccination, nutrition and pain guidelines for small-animal vets.
- Cornell Feline Health CenterFeline health information from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
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