Cat Sleeping Positions And What They Mean
Andrea Powell
Just like dogs, cats sleep in some crazy positions.
But did you know a cat's preferred sleeping position can provide insight into how they are feeling?
Even though cats can literally sleep anywhere, it is not about where they sleep but the way they position their bodies.
On average cats will sleep 15-20 hours in a day, which means we can learn a lot by watching them sleep.
Discover more about the seven common cat sleeping positions below.
Belly Up
Photo: PixabayCats who choose to sleep on their backs with their bellies up are confident and feel secure in their environment. The vulnerable position exposes the feline's vital organs and is harder to jump up from, so cats who sleep this way have complete trust in their owners.
Friendly indoor cats are often seen napping this way. It is almost as if they are begging for a belly rub.
Curled Up
Photo: PixabayFelines who curl up in a tight ball with their tail wrapped around their bodies are doing what comes natural to them. Cats in the wild will sleep this way as it offers protection and conserves body heat.
It is one of the most popular sleeping positions for domestic cats, especially for cautious or nervous felines.
Half-Shut Eyes
Photo: PixabayCats who are on high alert or unsure of their surroundings may sleep with half-shut eyes. They are not in a deep sleep and awake at the smallest noise. Newly adopted cats or cats in noisy households will often sleep this way until they become familiar with their environment.
Side Sleeper
Photo: PixabayRelaxed and confident felines will sleep on their sides with their legs stretched out. If you see your cat napping on its side then it is in a deep sleep and should not be disturbed.
Cats that feel safe will nap in this common sleep position.
Burrower
Photo: PixabayHow many times have you found your cat napping under a blanket, behind a pillow, or inside a box? Cats love comfort and being warm and this position provides both. While any cat can burrow from time to time, if your cat always naps under something they may be chilly or seeking security.
Shy cats will often find a good hiding spot to nap and prefer to be left alone.
Loaf
Photo: PixabayCats who rest with their paws underneath them and appear to look like a loaf of bread are simply relaxing. They are not in a deep sleep and are ready to respond at a moment's notice.
Contortionist
Photo: PexelsFelines that look like a twisted pretzel when they sleep are very comfortable in their surroundings, even if they don't look like it. There is no real reason as to why cats will sleep in what appears to be uncomfortable positions, unless they are truly comfortable with their heads hanging off the edge of the chair. These weird cats love attention and maybe that is why they choose this position.
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