Cats are amazing, but they excel in one thing: sleeping. Here, we’ll tell you everything about their sleeping behavior. What their sleeping positions mean, how much they sleep, and where they prefer to do it, for example, in a cat bed. Are you ready to learn?
In this blog, you’ll find out:
- How long does a cat sleep in a day?
- In what ways do cats sleep?
- Where do cats prefer to sleep?
- What is the best spot for a cat bed?
- What is the best sleeping spot for an outdoor cat?
- Why do cats like to sleep in cardboard boxes?
How long does a cat sleep in a day?
If you have a cat, you’ve probably noticed how much they sleep. On average, a cat sleeps about 12 to 16 hours a day. Kittens and older cats sleep the most. This is good for them because cats need a lot of sleep. Cats are true nocturnal animals and are most active at night – they hunt, play, climb, and eat during the night. That’s why they sleep mostly during the day, and they do it in various ways.
In what ways do cats sleep (and what does it mean)?
The way a cat sleeps says something about how the cat feels. For example, if your cat curls up into a small ball, they might be cold. If your cat stretches out, they might be warm. If your cat sleeps on their back, they feel safe and content! You might recognize one of these sleeping positions from your own cat:
- With the tail wrapped around the body and the front legs tucked under the body: your cat feels comfortable and safe.
- Sitting upright with closed eyes: your cat is taking a catnap but is still aware of what’s happening around them.
- On the side, completely relaxed, and sometimes the legs, tail, or ears twitch: your cat is in deep sleep and may be dreaming.
- In a circle with the tail wrapped around the body, legs pulled in, and the head resting on the belly: your cat is in deep sleep and feels very secure.
Where do cats prefer to sleep?
Cats love warm and soft places to sleep. They prefer to sleep in a comfy cat bed or on a warm blanket. Or they might snuggle up with their owners on the couch or in bed. However, some cats like to sleep in high places. If your cat enjoys sleeping high up, look for a tall cat tree with cozy spots – like a hammock, lounging bed, or sleeping house, for instance.
Some cats also enjoy sleeping on top of their owners. Does your cat do this? Then you probably want to know what it means when your cat sleeps on you. The answer is nice, as your cat sleeps with you because they like and trust you. Your cat feels safe and comfortable with you, which makes it easy for them to fall asleep.
What is the best spot for a cat bed?
More important than the type of cat bed is its location. Cats need a quiet and warm place to sleep, where they feel safe. Always place the cat bed in a part of the house with low foot traffic – in a separate room, a quiet corner, or even in the attic. Consider the temperature as well. Cats love warmth, so never put a cat bed in a cold or drafty spot. It’s better to place it on a sunny windowsill or, in winter, near a radiator.
What is the best sleeping spot for an outdoor cat?
Does your cat enjoy the outdoors? Spoil them with an outdoor cat bed! It’s fantastic under your canopy, in your garden shed, on your porch, or on your balcony. But be cautious: when it freezes, you must bring your cat inside. Cats can’t handle the cold.
Why do cats like to sleep in cardboard boxes?
Cats are crazy about cardboard boxes. The exact reason for this is not well understood, but research has shown that cats always feel safer and more secure when they can hide in or take a nap in a cardboard box. That’s why animal shelters often use cardboard boxes to reduce stress in the cats they care for. So, if your cat is a bit anxious or nervous, be sure to place a few boxes in your house because we’re confident that your cat will jump right into them!
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Disclaimer: Petrebels is not a veterinarian or a behavioral expert. All content, information, and tips on this blog are intended to inspire you and provide informational value. If your cat has any issues or problems, and you’re unsure about your cat’s health, always consult a veterinarian or a behavioral expert.
