Cats and Sleep: Why They Prefer Sleeping With Their People

Most dogs enjoy sleeping with their owners, and the more covers and blankets they can hog, the happier they are. In fact, they might even be happiest if their owners would just give them the whole bed to themselves. But what about cats? When it comes to cats and sleep, do cats like to sleep with their people?

cats and sleep

Does your cat actually prefer to sleep in bed with you as opposed to sleeping in his own bed? Some cats may just downright ditch their bed in favor of yours, assuming full possession of your mattress and covers! Why is this?

Why Cats Like To Sleep With Us

Well, cats feel quite vulnerable when they are asleep and prefer a place – or a person – they can trust to sleep on. In essence, when they choose to sleep with you, they are showing they trust you. Of course, who are we kidding?

Cats also sleep with you because they want to be warm and they love the extra warmth you provide. But, for the most part, despite their reputation for being independent, cats really do not like to be alone. They prefer your company.

Why Cats Often Like To Sleep On Our Heads

Okay…so now that your cat has control of the bed, why does he prefer to sleep on your head? Well, since all of the heat from your body escapes from our head, cats are smart enough to realize that will be the warmest part of your body! Because your head moves the least amount throughout the night, that is also the safest place for your cat to slumber.

Is It A Good Idea For Your Cat To Sleep With You?

Should you sleep with your cat? Obviously, this is a personal decision and choice. Some people love the idea. Some people loathe the idea. Consider the upsides and downsides to sleeping with your cat.

Why It’s A Good Idea….

On the positive side, if you have had a stressful day, it can be very relaxing to snuggle into bed with your cat, along with a good book or a movie to unwind. Also, sleeping with your cat is a terrific way to bond with him.

Why It’s Not Such A Good Idea….

On the negative side, your cat is bringing dirty paws to your bed, either from toileting outside or using a litter box. Some of this dirt could get into your sheets. Further, cats do not often sleep through the night, which could translate to disturbed sleep for you.

Finally, you have to consider allergies. You may realize that pet hair in your bed leads to increased allergies. You can also develop an allergy to pets even if you have never had them before.

Conclusion

You know yourself and your cat best, so it is your choice as to whether or not your cat shares the bed with you. We just hope that no matter what you decide, that each of you enjoy a relaxing night’s sleep!

Source: petsittersireland.com

Written by Ann Butenas

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.