Some cats love to be cuddled and eventually get into the habit of sleeping on their owner’s face. Most of the time, this behavior is a sign of trust and affection, so it can be taken as a compliment. After all, a cat that feels unsafe will never sleep on your face.
There are several reasons why cats sleep on their owner’s stomach. Cats can’t explain why they behave the way they do, so we can only guess why they behave the way they do.
Why cats sleep on your stomach
Each cat is unique, which means they have their own reasons for preferring to sleep on their owner’s face. Here are some possible reasons why they do this.
looking for warmth
Cats are heat seekers and prefer temperatures around 80°F to 90°F. Cats may prefer to cuddle up on a blanket or heating pad, especially during naps and sleep, as most homes have cooler temperatures. Your face becomes like a hot water bottle and your cat may prefer to sleep on it because it feels warm.
Sleeping on your stomach may be strategic, as it is a safe place for your cat. Your cat can be warmed by your body temperature without worrying about touching its limbs.
safety
A cat that has a strong bond with its owner sees the owner as a source of reassurance. Therefore, some cats may want to be as close to their owners as possible. Sleeping is a very vulnerable act for cats, as they are not fully aware of their surroundings and have slow reaction times.
Choosing to sleep on or near your face in this situation is a sign of trust, and your cat trusts you to protect them while they sleep.
want to attract attention
Some cats may show affection or seek attention by sleeping on your stomach. Cats have very sensitive noses and will eventually get used to your scent. Give your cat a sense of security and she may start sleeping on your stomach because she wants to smell you. Sleeping under a blanket exposes only your face, and your cat may want to sleep on it.
In my personal experience, I have found that my cats will usually do anything to get my attention. She loves being the center of her attention and is very aware when I’m not paying attention to her. Sometimes she puts her face on my face when I’m lying on the sofa watching TV. I know it’s hard to ignore a cat once it appears on my face, and paying attention every time a cat does something like that only reinforces the behavior.
Territorial behavior
Cats are territorial animals, constantly marking and reinforcing their territory. they usually rub one’s face or body against something Mark it with your scent and claim the object as yours. This is why cats rub against their owners. They tell you that you are affiliated with them.
Also, in cat colonies, cats rub against other members of the colony. This leaves all cats in the colony with pheromones, forming a collective collective odor. Group scents help maintain peace in the colony and identify strangers. Therefore, your cat sees you as part of a colony or territory and may choose to sleep on your stomach.
Is it safe for my cat to sleep on my face?
In most cases, it’s perfectly safe for your cat to sleep on your stomach. When your cat sleeps next to you on your bed, your bond will grow. Cats will appreciate your warmth, too, and will feel at ease when you’re around them.
I have a fairly small cat so I don’t mind if she sleeps on my stomach. Also, she doesn’t do it often, but I’ve noticed she often does it during the winter and after I get home from a few days of travel.
There are some exceptions that can be dangerous for both you and your cat. For example, if your cat tends to toss and turn during sleep or wake up with nightmares, it may not be a good idea to let your cat sleep near you or in your bed. Sudden movements can startle your cat, and it can also injure you if you accidentally hit it while sleeping.
Putting your cat to sleep on your face is also not the best option if you have dust allergies or respiratory problems. A cat’s fur can carry a variety of allergens, including dander, dust, and dirt, and contact with them can exacerbate allergy symptoms. They are also likely to be inhaled along with cat hair and can cause breathing problems.
How to get a cat to stop sleeping on its stomach
If sleeping on your stomach is a problem, you can train your cat to stop this behavior. Keep in mind that it will take a lot of time and patience to stop your cat from sleeping on your stomach.
First, when your cat sleeps on your stomach, it’s important not to give her attention, especially if she’s motivated to get attention. Try to slowly turn your body to the other side and gently pull the cat away from your face. At this time, try not to make any noise or notice the cat so that it does not notice that it has your attention.
You can also start training your cat to sleep in a different spot. Use treats to encourage your cat to sleep where you want it, such as next to you or in your cat bed. If you keep rewarding your cat for sleeping in a particular place, she will eventually develop a positive relationship with her new sleeping place and sleep there on her own.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why cats sleep on their owners’ faces. They may be seeking attention, warmth, or trying to mark their territory. In most cases, it is harmless for your cat to sleep on your stomach. Your cat’s preference for sleeping on your stomach shows that your cat trusts you enough to sleep near you.
Featured image credits: osobystist, Shutterstock
About the author
Ivy’s mom cat is a lively little rescue kitten who is her only child. At this point! Throughout her life, she has known the special love found in the bond she has with her cat. Having owned multiple cats, she is convinced that their love is unmatched, unconditional, and unlike any other animal. With a passion for educating the public about everything from cat biology, behavior and unique personalities, Krystal encourages all cats and their owners to live and love consciously. I am dedicated to making people aware of the importance of