More About Why Cats Sleep So Much

catDuring his last sleep blog your Livonia, MI dentist, Dr. James Stewart, talked about why cats sleep so much. In today’s blog he is going to share some more information regarding cats and their sleep habits.

Review:

  • Last blog we learned that cats can sleep up to 20 hours in a 24 hour period.
  • We also learned that they sleep so much because they are storing their energy for hunting prey.
  • Cats will also sleep more if the weather is cold, snowy, or rainy.

How Cats Sleep

Cats experience a deep sleep-dozing pattern. When they doze they sleep very lightly and will position themselves so they can quickly spring up and attack. Dozing can last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.

When cats are in deep sleep they experience rapid brain movement.  Deep sleep lasts only about 15 minutes and then reverts back to dozing. This pattern lasts throughout their entire sleep.

Just like people, kittens and older cats sleep more than the average adult cat.

The Crepuscular Cat

Although most people probably think cats are nocturnal, they are actually crepuscular which means they are more active in the twilight hours of dusk and dawn. They tend to keep a low profile during the evenings and daylight hours. Outdoor cats are more active as they explore their environment and hunt prey. Indoor cats tend to sleep more. However, cats are extremely adaptable and will adjust their sleep according to their feeding schedule, and/or to enjoy the company of their owner.

About Your Livonia MI Dentist Dr. Stewart

James R. Stewart, Jr, DDS, PC and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. If you think you or a loved one is dealing with a sleep disorder, call our office today at (734) 425-4400, to schedule an appointment. At Dental sleep Medicine of Michigan, we are committed to forming trusting relationships with our patients so we can work together to achieve sound treatment and a future full of restful nights.