If you have little kids, teenagers, or even a visiting father-in-law, you have probably come to realize that they can fall asleep in some of the weirdest places and in the strangest positions. Cat sleep positions take the prize, though. (Ever hear of the cat that was found sound asleep between the fridge and the wall? More on that at another time!)
It seems cats are made of some strange material that allows them to assume the most unusual sleeping positions. (Do they even have bones?) I have seen photos on the Internet of cats asleep in boots, on top of other animals, sprawled across luggage racks or even nestled on top of the TV. How are any of these even comfortable??? You’d be surprised!
Why do cats sleep in strange places? I mean, after all, we got them a cat bed for a reason.
According to petplace.com, cats will sleep on most anything that isn’t their dedicated bed. They’d rather snooze on your laundry, across your keyboard or on top of some bags next to the bed.
Most likely, they are drawn to your scent on those things which make them feel comfortable and safe. They know that is a place where they can curl up, relax and catch some comforting shut-eye.
What are the most common cat sleep positions?
Have you ever heard of the kitty loaf? This seems to be the winner of cat sleep positions. This is when your cat is lying lengthwise on his belly. His paws will be tucked under him. His head could be resting on something or perched upright. Even if it looks uncomfortable to you, if it doesn’t seem to bother your cat, leave him be.
Where is the best place for your cat to sleep?
Like my late grandfather who could fall asleep just about anywhere – even behind the wheel (again, another story for another day!) – cats are comfortable just about anywhere. So, if your cat’s odd and quirky sleeping positions catch your eye, don’t fret over them.
If he is comfy and appears well, let him be. Sure, who doesn’t want to curl up with their cat and fall asleep together? Sometimes, you just have to accept that your feline friend would rather sleep wrapped around the footstool than right up next to you in bed. As long as he is safe and sleeping well without keeping you up all hours of the night, then let him be.
Word of caution…
If it appears your cat is not sleeping well or puts himself in positions that seems to suggest he is in pain or some sort of discomfort, please consult your veterinarian.
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
