If you have a dog or a cat, you have probably asked yourself at least once: “But how much does my pet sleep?” Our four-legged friends spend many hours of the day sleeping, but how normal is it and when should we worry? In this guide you will discover everything about the sleep of dogs and cats, from the ideal hours of rest to the signs of abnormal sleep.
1. How Many Hours Should Dogs and Cats Sleep?
Sleep varies depending on several factors such as age, race, and activity level.
🐶 Dog's Sleep
- Puppies (up to 12 months) : 18-20 hours per day. Puppies need plenty of rest to grow and develop properly.
- Adults (1-7 years) : 12-14 hours per day. Adult dogs sleep less than puppies, but their sleep is still essential for health.
- Seniors (7+ years) : 14-18 hours per day. Senior dogs tend to sleep more due to their slower metabolism and lower energy levels.
- Breeds and Activities : Large breed dogs such as St. Bernards and Mastiffs sleep longer, while working dogs (Border Collies, Huskies) have shorter, more fragmented sleep.
🐱 Cat's Sleep
- Kittens (up to 6 months) : 18-22 hours per day. Just like puppies, kittens need plenty of sleep.
- Adult cats (6 months - 7 years) : 12-16 hours per day. Cats sleep a lot during the day and are most active in the morning and evening.
- Senior Cats (7+ years) : 16-20 hours per day. As cats age, they become more sedentary and sleep more.
- Breeds and Activity : Purebred cats such as Persians tend to sleep more than more active cats such as Bengals or Abyssinians.
2. When to Worry?
A sudden change in sleeping habits can be a sign of a health problem. Here's when to consult a veterinarian:
- Sleeps much more than usual : If your dog or cat spends more time than usual sleeping and appears lethargic, it could be a sign of illness.
- Sleeps too little and seems restless : If your pet has trouble sleeping and appears stressed or agitated, he or she may be suffering from anxiety, joint pain, or neurological problems.
- Sudden changes in habits : If an active animal suddenly becomes more sleepy or vice versa, it is best to have it checked out.
- Abnormal breathing during sleep : If your dog or cat makes strange sounds, snores excessively, or has difficulty breathing, he or she may be suffering from breathing problems.
3. How to Improve Your Pet's Sleep Quality
If you want to make sure your dog or cat sleeps well and healthily, follow these tips:
✔ Create a comfortable environment : Make sure your pet has a quiet place to sleep, with a comfortable bed or kennel. ✔ Maintain a routine : Dogs and cats feel more secure when they have regular times to eat, play and sleep. ✔ Avoid loud noises : Sudden or excessive sounds can disturb sleep, especially in cats. ✔ Exercise regularly : Walks and games stimulate your dog or cat and help them sleep better at night. ✔ Provide a balanced diet : A healthy diet promotes more regular sleep and reduces any digestive problems at night.
Conclusion
Sleep is essential to your dog or cat's health, but it's important to monitor any changes in their habits. If they're sleeping too much or too little than normal, there may be an underlying problem. With the right environment and a stable routine, you can ensure your four-legged friend gets optimal rest and a more peaceful life.
Does your pet sleep a lot? Have you noticed any changes in their sleep? Tell us in the comments!