Our question this week was:

Is there a problem if my kitten (5 months old) is sleeping more than usual in a day?

S. Hewitt.

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. Cats sleep a lot. Many cats will sleep at least 12 hours and many probably sleep closer to 16 – 18 hours a day. As far as if it is a problem, I'd look at the sleep patterns in conjunction with your kittens other signs.

For example, is the kitten eating okay? Urinating okay? Having normal bowel movements? Playful?

If the kitten is active, playful, eating, drinking and having normal urine and bowel movement and just sleeping a bit more... then I wouldn't be too worried.

If the kitten seems lethargic, weak, is not eating as much, not drinking as much, or has any other abnormal signs – then I'd be worried and recommend that you have her examined by your veterinarian.

An article that might be helpful to you is Sleep Behavior of Cats.

Best of luck!


Dr. Jon




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