Just as in humans, the amount of sleep each individual pet needs will vary based on their age, genetics, and overall lifestyle. Young and elderly pets usually require more sleep than the average adult cat or dog.
The average amount of time for a normal adult dog to spend sleeping is around 12 hours; for a cat it is closer to 16-18 hours.
This sleeping time is typically split into 2 or 3 sleeping sessions, varying based on your household’s daily schedule. It is important to have a general idea of the average number of hours that your pet sleeps throughout the day and keep track of any significant changes to their sleeping patterns.
Why Sleep is Important for Cats and Dogs
As with all animals, sleep is essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of all bodily systems. Without enough sleep, dogs and cats may become more prone to illness, injury, and/or behavioral issues. Conversely, too much sleep can be an indication that something is ailing your pet and should be investigated by a veterinary professional.
What is normal for your pet? Pay attention to the frequency and duration of their sleeping so you can easily note any changes.
Factors That Can Affect a Pet’s Sleep
If you have noticed changes in your pet’s sleep, consider some of the factors below that could be impacting your pet’s sleeping patterns and
book an appointment with your local vet to discuss any concerns.
DISEASE, ILLNESS, OR INJURY
The amount of time your pet spends sleeping, or changes to their sleeping habits, can indicate an underlying health or behavioral problem.
Painful conditions like arthritis or a musculoskeletal injury may lead to a pet being reluctant to engage in activity and spend more time sleeping instead.
Diseases, such as hypothyroidism, can affect a pet’s metabolism which often leads to lethargy over time.
Conditions like anemia, heart disease, and lung disease, can result in a pet being increasingly tired due to the lack of proper oxygenation.
Cognitive dysfunction, seen in conditions like dementia, may interrupt normal sleep patterns.
Environmental allergies (atopy) can cause less sleep due to the pet constantly chewing/licking their itchy skin.
Behavioral issues, like situational anxieties or phobias, can cause interrupted or lessened sleep – just like in humans!
SLEEPING ENVIRONMENT
It is important that your pet has a restful place to sleep. Make sure their sleeping environment is dark, quiet, and away from household disturbances. Some things to consider when choosing the best sleeping spot for your pet include:
If you have multiple pets, do they each have a designated sleeping spot or bed?
Is the environment quiet/restful? (Lights, noises, etc. can disturb pets’ sleep just as humans’).
If your pet sleeps in bed with you, are they on regular parasite preventatives and are they bathed regularly?
ACTIVITY LEVELS
Adequate exercise is essential when it comes to a pet’s quality of sleep. Consistency with activity schedules/routine can also help to regulate a pet’s sleeping patterns.
Some cats can be nocturnal and may be more active at night. It is important to take this into consideration when figuring out how much sleep your cat is getting or needs. Try setting up a nanny-cam in an area that can track your cat’s activity at night to see how much rest they get when you are sleeping.
DIET & FEEDING
Having your pet on a consistent feeding schedule is important for helping regulate their sleeping patterns. Cats and dogs are creatures of habit and tend to thrive with routines. If their food and exercise happens at the same time each day, they will be more likely to start sleeping at the same times as well.
Your pet’s food intake is important too. Maintaining a well-balanced diet, and limiting table-food and treats, can aid your pet’s sleep by helping prevent bloating and indigestion.
SEASONAL INFLUENCES ON SLEEP
Cats and dogs can be very sensitive to temperature and pressure fluctuations, which can affect their sleep throughout the year. It is important to take your pet’s comfort level into account, especially during temperature extremes.
Make sure you accommodate for these seasonal weather changes; run the heater, provide extra blankets, and give your dog or cat a pet sweater during the colder months. Run the A.C., add ice to your pet’s water bowl, and plan exercise early or late during the summer.
One-off events can happen throughout the year that can also disturb your pet’s sleep. Use a noise machine and set up a quiet, dark, and peaceful place for your pet to sleep ahead of events like fireworks or parties during holidays.
