Ever Wonder Why Your Cat Sleeps That Way? Science Has Some Answers!

If you’re like me, you’re probably obsessed with every little thing your cat does – how they clean themselves, how they eat, and, of course, their impressive napping skills. After all, they are practically pros! They can snooze anywhere, anytime, for hours on end. But what does how they sleep say about your cat?

We all know that cats are masters of finding the perfect spot to nap. They love high perches, such as the top of their favorite cat tree, the back of your favorite recliner, or even squeezed onto a bookshelf. It’s instinctual. They want to see everything around them, keeping an eye out for anything that might be a threat, just as their ancestors would when watching out for predators.

Researchers from Ruhr University Bochum in Germany recently published a study in Current Biology that focused on better understanding how our cats sleep, specifically when sleeping on the ground.

After watching hundreds of cat videos on YouTube and analyzing the way cats sleep, researchers found that two-thirds of cats prefer to sleep on their left side.

So, why the left-side lean? It all comes down to their brains. When a cat sleeps on their left side, their vision on that side stays open. This “visual information” goes straight to the right side of their brain, which is the part of the brain responsible for tasks such as knowing their location in space, identifying potential danger, and preparing to make a quick escape.  

When you stop to think about it, it makes sense. When cats are in a deep sleep, they are very vulnerable. By keeping this left visual field clear, they are keeping a little bit of their danger radar active. It means if something startles them awake, whether it’s a loud noise, a shadow, or even us trying to sneak up to take a picture of their adorable faces, this direct line to the right side of the brain might give them an extra second to react.

It’s a great example of how evolution continues to impact our cats, even as they settle into their comfortable domesticated lives.

Knowing all this, how can we help create the absolute best nap spots for them? Here are a few tips to help you craft the perfect cozy sleep spot that still allows them to tap into those natural instincts for safety and awareness:

• Offer Elevated Options: Don’t overlook their natural desire for a good vantage point. Consider a cat tree with multiple levels, window perches, or even a soft bed placed up on a sturdy bookshelf. The higher, the better, as it gives them a sense of security and a better view of their surroundings.
• Provide Places to Hide: Enclosed beds, cat caves, or even a cozy box can offer a sense of security and privacy. These spots allow your cat to enjoy a deeper sleep where they feel completely safe from any threats.
• Placement Matters: Pay attention to which side your cat prefers to sleep on. While the study suggests a left-side bias, every cat is an individual. Ensure the spot you are setting up allows them to lie on their preferred side while still being open to observe the room.
• Comfort and Warmth: Consider plush beds, blankets, or even a heated cat bed, especially during cooler months. A comfortable surface encourages longer, more restful sleep.

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