Sleep is crucial for cats as it renews their energy and prepares them for their next adventurous burst of activity. It’s no wonder that domestic cats sleep for around 12 to 18 hours a day, with even longer durations as they grow older. But have you ever wondered why your furry friend chooses to sleep between you and your partner? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this behavior and what it tells us about their bond with their owners.
Cat Bonding
Cats tend to form strong bonds with one person in the household rather than multiple individuals. Positive experiences and interactions during their early socialization, especially during kittenhood, play a vital role in developing a close bond with a particular person. Cats that have received special care due to illness or injury also tend to form long-lasting attachments with their caregivers. Research published in the Current Biology Journal even suggests that cats can develop emotional attachments similar to those seen in dogs and children. Most cats rely on their owners for security, especially during times of stress or when faced with unfamiliar surroundings.
To foster a close bond with your cat, take the time to engage with them. Call your cat during feeding time instead of leaving food out all day. Regularly play with them and establish a daily grooming routine if they enjoy brushing. Clicker training can also be an effective way to stimulate their mind and strengthen your bond.
What Social Sleeping Indicates in Cats
Social sleeping is not uncommon in pet cats. Kittens naturally snuggle up to their mother and littermates early in life, and cats that have grown up together or formed social relationships at a young age also engage in social sleeping behavior. When cats sleep in close proximity to each other, often touching or wrapped around one another, it indicates social bonding and a close relationship. In domestic settings, even cats from different social groups or those who don’t get along may sleep in the same area, albeit maintaining some distance to indicate tolerance.
When a cat chooses to sleep with another pet or their owner, it signifies that they feel content, safe, and happy. Now let’s delve into how cats select their favorite sleeping companions.
How Cats Choose Their Favorite Sleeping Partner
There are several factors that influence a cat’s choice of sleeping partner. Let’s explore them in detail:
The Primary Caregiver
Many cats prefer to sleep with their primary caregiver, the person who understands their behavioral needs, provides regular meals, fulfills their daily requirements, and engages in play and quality time with them.
The Protector
Cats prioritize safety and security, as they are both predators and potential prey. They often choose to sleep up high on the bed with the person they feel most protected by. This choice helps minimize the risk of attack while they are vulnerable during sleep.
The Bonded Companion
Just like children, cats can form strong attachments to certain individuals that last a lifetime. A bonded cat will seek their favorite human’s attention, follow them around, and take any chance to sleep or snuggle with them as a source of comfort and security.
The Provider of Warmth
Cats naturally seek warmth, as their ancestors originated from desert regions and require heat for survival. Newborn kittens rely on their mother’s body heat, and as adults, cats seek out the person who can provide the most warmth and security. Sleeping beside you, next to you, or on top of your head generates direct heat, making you a prime sleeping companion.
The Familiar Smell
Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, and they recognize people based on their unique scent. They may choose to sleep next to a familiar person to maintain social cohesion and mark their territory through facial rubbing and scent exchange.
The Comforter
During times of anxiety or distress, cats may prefer to sleep next to a caregiver who provides reassurance through gentle stroking and touch. This behavior helps them feel more secure and relaxed.
Why Does My Cat Prefer to Sleep With Me and Not My Partner?
Your cat’s preference for sleeping with you instead of your partner can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, cats instinctively choose to sleep with the person they have a strong connection with. If you are their primary caregiver, who feeds them, engages in play, and gives them undivided attention, they will naturally gravitate towards you. Additionally, your warmth and security make you an attractive sleeping partner for your feline friend. Furthermore, your side of the bed may provide a better vantage point and more space compared to your partner’s.
Lastly, if your partner snores, tosses and turns, or wakes up frequently during the night, it may cause discomfort for your cat. They are more likely to choose to sleep next to you, as you are a sound sleeper and provide a more peaceful environment.
Should You Let Your Cat Sleep With You?
Whether or not you allow your cat to sleep with you is a personal choice. Sleeping with your cat can have several health benefits, such as reducing stress and lowering blood pressure, while also strengthening your bond. However, there may be times when allergies, breathing issues, exposure to parasites, or disruptive nighttime behavior affect your sleep quality, leading you to limit or prohibit your cat’s snooze time.
To ensure a good night’s sleep for both you and your feline friend, you can refer to our article on “11 tips to train your cat to sleep all night”.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it normal for cats to sleep for long hours?
A: Yes, it is normal for cats to sleep between 12 to 18 hours a day, and even longer as they age.
Q: Why do cats form strong bonds with their owners?
A: Cats form strong bonds with their owners due to positive experiences during early socialization, their temperament, health status, and the home environment. They seek security, predictability, familiarity, routine, and a sense of control over interactions and their environment.
Q: What does it mean when cats sleep close to each other?
A: When cats sleep in close proximity to each other, it signifies social bonding and a close relationship. It indicates that they feel content, safe, and happy in each other’s presence.
Q: How can I strengthen the bond with my cat?
A: To strengthen your bond with your cat, provide them with positive experiences, engage in regular playtime, establish a grooming routine, and offer them a sense of security, warmth, and love.
Q: Is it common for cats to sleep with their owners?
A: Yes, it is common for cats to sleep with their owners. Many cats prefer to sleep with their primary caregivers, as they feel secure and find comfort in their presence.
Conclusion
Sleep is essential for both cats and humans. Cats choose to sleep with the person who makes them feel loved, warm, and secure. Sudden changes in your cat’s sleep patterns, location, or sleeping companions may indicate distress or an underlying health issue. If you notice any significant changes, it’s best to consult your veterinarian for early detection and appropriate treatment.
Remember, a sleeping kitty is a happy kitty!
Also Read: 9 Cat Behavior Changes To Worry About