Cats sleep so much primarily because it is an innate behavior deeply rooted in their genetics and evolutionary past. They are natural predators that require a lot of energy for activities like hunting, which involves intense bursts of energy for chasing and capturing prey. Even domesticated cats retain this instinct to conserve energy by sleeping long hours: they typically sleep anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day, with some reaching up to 20 hours, especially kittens and older cats. Cats are also crepuscular, meaning they are most active during twilight (dawn and dusk), which explains their burst of activity at these times and their prolonged sleep during the day. This sleep pattern helps them recharge for their active hunting periods. Additionally, cats engage in light dozing or "catnaps" multiple times a day, which keeps them alert to their surroundings even while resting. Their long sleeping hours also serve to reduce stress and improve their memory and alertness. In summary, cats sleep so much to conserve energy for hunting and activity, which is an inherited survival trait, adapted for their role as predators active during dawn and dusk. This is why cats often nap throughout the day and become more restless in the early morning or evening. If a cat sleeps excessively beyond its normal patterns or shows changes in behavior, it might also indicate health issues, in which case a vet should be consulted. All these points are supported by expert sources on cat behavior and veterinary advice.
