Sleeping positions of cats: What do they say about well-being?

Cats have a significantly greater need for sleep than humans. The four-legged friends spend between 12 and 16 hours of their day sleeping or dozing. The sleeping positions of a cat can sometimes seem strange. In fact, however, you can tell a lot from them. In this article we will explain exactly what this can be.

The most important facts about the sleeping positions of cats at a glance

• Depending on whether the cat sleeps curled up or stretched out, it may be too cold or too warm.
• Cats that lie on their bellies with their hind legs tucked up when sleeping are ready to escape at any time.
• If a cat sleeps on its back with its belly uncovered, it feels absolutely safe in its environment.
• Unusual changes in sleeping behaviour can indicate health problems in cats.
• Shiimun Calm is a natural way to help stressed and anxious cats relax.

What does a curled up sleeping position mean?

Among other things, the ambient temperature can also affect your cat's sleeping position. If your cat is curled up tightly, it may mean that he is cold. It may then make sense to carefully increase the temperature in the home.

What does a stretched out sleeping position mean?

In contrast to a curled up sleeping position, a stretched out sleeping position can mean that your cat is warm. If your cat has stretched out its legs while sleeping and is perhaps even lying on the cold tiled floor, it may be wishing for a slightly cooler flat.

Sleeping position on the belly

Cats often sleep on their bellies with their hind legs tucked up. This sleeping position allows them to escape at any time if necessary. If you see your four-legged friend sleeping in this position, you can therefore assume that he is only partially relaxed, despite his well-being.

Sleeping position on the back

If your cat sleeps on its back with its belly unprotected, this is a good sign. The four-legged friend shows his particularly sensitive body area. With this sleeping position, the cat signals that it feels very safe and does not feel the slightest fear.

Sleeping position on the side

If your cat is sleeping on its side with its paws stretched out, you can usually assume that it is very relaxed. The cat feels safe and sees no reason to be ready to flee.

Why do cats like to sleep on people?

The belly or lap of their owner is one of the most popular sleeping places for many cats. If your cat regularly makes itself comfortable on you, this is a sign of affection. The four-legged friend feels safe with you and enjoys your closeness as well as your body heat while sleeping.

Why do cats sleep in boxes?

As a cat owner, you have probably often observed how your four-legged friend squeezes into boxes that are actually much too small. This is simply because cats feel particularly safe in such a hiding place. 

Expert tip for a relaxed cat

If a cat is constantly hiding while sleeping, this can sometimes indicate insecurity or stress. Perhaps you have recently moved house or there has been another major change in your cat's life.

In this case, the administration of Shiimun Calm can be useful. Shiimun Calm is a natural supplementary feed based on shiitake. The special formula was developed with veterinarians and can be instrumental in helping anxious or stressed cats relax.

Learn about Shiimun Calm for cats >

Recognise health problems in cats by their sleep

Cats sleep a lot and sometimes in very unusual positions. At first, this is completely normal and no cause for alarm. Nevertheless, it is worth paying a little attention to your four-legged friend's sleeping behaviour. If you observe unusual changes, this may indicate a health problem. For example, if your cat suddenly starts sleeping a lot and looks tired, a visit to the vet is often a good idea.

Sleeping positions of cats: a conclusion

As you can see, the sleeping position of your cat can tell you a lot about its state of mind. Depending on how the cat has made itself comfortable, it is either particularly relaxed or has a close eye on its surroundings. Moreover, the sleeping position can also indicate whether your cat is too warm or too cold. Regardless of this, you should keep an eye on your cat's general sleeping behaviour. This is because noticeable changes can sometimes be a sign of a health problem.