May 20, 2025 
 
 Cats are famous for their luxurious lounging habits, and for good reason.                                                                                     1. They’re Natural Predators                                                                   Even the fluffiest house cat shares ancestry with wild hunters. In the wild, big cats like lions and leopards conserve energy by sleeping for long stretches between hunts. Domestic cats have inherited the same instinct: to sleep often and deeply, so they’re ready to                                              pounce                                               when needed.                                                                                                 2. They’re Crepuscular Creatures                                                                   Unlike humans, cats are not strictly diurnal (awake during the day) or nocturnal (awake at night). Cats are                                              crepuscular                                               , which means they’re most active at dawn and dusk. That leaves plenty of hours in between for rest, often totaling                                              12–16 hours of sleep per day                                  , with kittens and senior cats sleeping even more.                                                                                     3. Sleep Supports Growth and Brain Health                                                                   Just like in humans, sleep plays a vital role in a cat’s physical and mental health. During deep sleep, cats release growth hormones, build immune strength, and process stimuli from the day. It’s essential for                                              kittens (who may sleep up to 20 hours!)                                               and older cats recovering from activity or illness.                                                                                                 Types of Cat Sleep: Light Snoozing vs. Deep Sleep                                                                   Not all cat sleep is the same. You might notice your cat’s ears twitch or tail flick while they nap. This is likely                                              light sleep,                                               also known as a "cat nap," where they’re still partially alert to their surroundings.                                                                                                              Cats also cycle into                                              REM (deep) sleep                                  , where you may see muscle twitches or whisker movement. This is when true restorative rest happens, and it’s essential for their physical health and emotional well-being.                                                                                     Signs Your Cat is Getting Good Sleep                                                                   They nap in a variety of safe, quiet spots                                                           They seem relaxed, paws tucked, belly up, or stretched out                                                           They wake up slowly and comfortably                                                           They play, eat, and socialize well during active periods                                                                                            On the flip side, if your cat is constantly startled awake, sleeps in odd places (like the litter box), or seems overly lethargic, it may be worth checking in with your vet.                                                                                     How to Help Your Cat Sleep Well at Home                                                      Cats are self-soothers, but you can support their sleep routine by creating a calm, cozy, and enriched environment. Here are a few tips:                                                                                     1. Create a Safe Sleeping Space                                                      Offer a variety of cozy nap spots in different parts of your home. Think:                                                                   Window perches for sunbathing                                                           Covered beds or boxes for privacy                                                           Soft blankets in quiet corners                                                                                            Cats love options, so try giving them a mix of high and low spaces to choose from.                                                                                     2. Stick to a Routine                                                      Cats thrive on predictability. Keeping consistent feeding and play times helps regulate their internal clock. Play with them during their naturally active times (early morning or evening) to encourage restful sleep later.                                                                                     3. Minimize Noise & Disruption                                                      Make sure their sleep spaces are free from loud or jarring noises. Cats are light sleepers and easily startled. Turn off loud TVs, avoid vacuuming near nap spots, and provide a space where they won’t be bothered.                                                                                     4. Enrich Their Waking Hours                                                      A well-stimulated cat will rest better. Offer interactive toys, climbing shelves, puzzle feeders, and play sessions throughout the day. A satisfied cat is a sleepy cat!                                                                                     How Cat & Craft Supports Cat Naps                                                                   At                                              Cat & Craft                                  , we’ve designed our café and cat lounge to honor cats’ natural rhythms. You’ll find:                                                                   Cozy corners and soft beds in both private and communal areas                                                           Vertical shelves for climbing and lounging                                                           A calm, welcoming atmosphere that encourages trust and comfort                                                                         Respectful visitors who understand the golden rule:                                                  let sleeping cats lie                                                   💤                                                                                                           Our cats are free to nap when and where they choose, which helps reduce stress and promote positive behaviors. It also gives adopters a glimpse into a cat’s relaxed, natural side, a key factor in finding the right match.                                                                                     Conclusion: Celebrate the Cat Nap                                                      Cats aren’t lazy, they’re efficient. Their frequent naps are a biological necessity and a sign of comfort, health, and trust. By understanding your cat’s sleep habits and creating a supportive environment, you’re helping them live their best (and most rested) life.                                                                                     So next time your cat curls up and drifts off mid-afternoon, take it as a cue to slow down too. Brew a cup of coffee, grab a book, and enjoy the peace of a cat nap kind of day.                                                                                     Want to see cat naps in action? Visit us at Cat & Craft, where the coffee is hot, the cats are cozy, and the vibes are always chill.                                               🐾☕