Have you ever seen a bed with just a lump in the middle, under the blanket? The cat lump doesn’t move, it is totally still.
Some cats love going under blankets and it does look mighty funny. It always looks like they need a DO NOT DISTURB sign planted on top of them.
They are not too happy if the blanket is lifted up a little, just to check that all is okay under there. Just checking kitty!
The Main Reason Your cat Is under The blankets
The main reason cats go under blankets is for warmth. Not all cats will do this. Some cats like the warmth when the bed owner departs the bed but they won’t necessarily go right under the covers.
A cat’s normal body temperature is 100.5 -102.5 degrees. Because cats’ bodies are naturally warmer than ours, they love warm areas to nap.
A small kitten needs temperatures that may feel hot to you.
A kitten can’t completely regulate their body temperature in the same way that an adult cat can. Kittens will seek out areas that are warm for this reason.
Of course, we know that even adult cats prefer warmth.
Why Do Cats Sleep Under Blankets?
Here are some more reasons why cats under blankets is a common occurrence
1.The Cat Feels Safe Under The Blankets
Cats can experience stress or anxiety, just like humans. When you are stressed, you probably enjoy cuddling up with a blanket.
Your cat or kitten feels the same way. Cats climb carefully under the covers because it makes them feel safe. Under the blanket is the cat’s safe within the house.
Anxious cats may also prefer being under the covers because it’s dark and warm under the covers. The warmth and darkness of being under a bedcover or blanket can help your cat feel comfortable.
Related Reading: My cat always want to sleep between my legs. Is this usual? Very usual as it turns out. Read more.
2. Cats Under Blankets Because You are There
If you are under the covers, you can expect your cat to snuggle up with you.
3. Cats Are Curious
Another common reason cats enjoy being under covers is simple curiousity. Cats love getting themselves in odd areas. Cats are always exploring or hiding.
You may find your cat under the bed in your bedroom, in your kitchen cabinets, on the bookshelf, under your blankets or even hunched up on your pillow or next to your pillow.
4. Cats Love To Play
No matter if you have one cat or other cats in the house, all cats love to play. One way they play is by climbing under the covers.
This is a little different to going totally under the blanket to hang out there for hours.
This is play time. One cat or the cat’s owner will remain on top of the blanket, while another cat is under the covers.
When a cat gets under the blankets, it’s a way to initiate playtime.
5.Cat Relaxing Under The Blanket
You may see your cat sleep under the covers because they are relaxed. It’s natural for your kitty to nap when they are in a cozy bed. The pressure and weight of the blanket may help your cat relax.
Science says that blankets provide weight, which puts a slight pressure on your cat’s body. This has a calming effect. Well, this works for humans. Weighted blankets are now a popular thing.
Related Reading: Why do cats sometimes sleep curled up in a ball? Are they cold? Find the answers in this article.
Can Cats Get Enough Air Under the Covers?
Many cat owners are concerned that their kitty may suffocate under the blanket. Can cats get enough air to breathe when they are totally under a blanket?
The scientific answer is, when cats sleep, they go into a state similar to hibernation. Cats breathe slower when they sleep.
Their body slows, reducing their need for oxygen. This makes oxygen deprivation very unlikely when they sleep under a blanket.
As long as the blanket allows for some type of air flow, you don’t have to worry about your cat suffocating. Felines also self regulate. When they are sleeping, they will wake up if they need more oxygen. Then, they climb out from under the cover to get the oxygen they need.
Don’t cover your cat with blankets. Some cats will not like it. This is something your cat needs to do of its own accord.
Tree Dweller? Open ground dweller? Ambush ground dweller? Which Is Your cat?
There are three types of cats, the tree dwellers, the open ground dwellers and the ambush ground dwellers.
The tree dwellers love being up high. In the wild, they are often found in the trees. In the house, they love climbing on top of the fridge, shelves, and bookcases.
Next are the open ground dwellers. These cats keep their feet on the ground. They enjoy open areas. You’ll find them hanging out in the middle of your floor or your bed.
Lastly, you have the ambush ground dwellers. These are the cats that can’t resist blankets. They prefer areas where they aren’t easily seen. They can be found in the tall grass or in a burrow in the wild. In the house, you’ll find them behind your furniture and under your favorite blanket.
Related Reading: Do Cats Purr When They Sleep? Some say Yes, others say No.
Do Cats Enjoy Burrowing?
Cats don’t have a burrowing instinct in the way some other animals do. You won’t find cat burrows in the ground. However, cats like getting into tight enclosed spaces.
In the wild, a cat may occasionally sleep in a hole created by another animal. Because they enjoy small spaces, they will burrow under blankets.
You may find them sitting under the covers, or they may even fall asleep.
Do Sphynx Cats Need to Sleep Under blankets?
Some Sphynx cats may enjoy sleeping under blankets as they are known for lacking a fur coat.
This makes a Sphynx cat more susceptible to temperature changes. Providing them with a cozy environment, including blankets, can help them stay warm and comfortable.
However, individual preferences may vary, and not all Sphynx cats may be interested in sleeping under blankets.
Should I Get a Cat Bed?
Does your cat need a cat bed that can be heated?
Cats can fall asleep just about anywhere, but it is helpful to have a cat bed. A heated cat bed is a bonus for the cat.
If you don’t want your cat under the blanket or on your bed, providing them with their own bed, gives them a safe place to sleep.
Of course, you can make the cat bed even more warm and cozy by adding a blanket.
Then, they can burrow underneath their blanket for extra warmth or security, without disturbing your sleep.
Related Reading: Does your cat charge around the house at night when everyone else is sleeping? Why do cats like to do this from time to time?
Final Thoughts
Does your cat like to sit on your bed, or do you find them under your blanket sleeping? If your cat likes sleeping in your bed, it’s likely because it’s cozy underneath your blanket.
Wherever your cat sleeps, it shouldn’t interfere with your ability to get rest as well. If your cat is keeping you awake, consider getting a cat bed.
Sleeping is an important activity for your cat. They are crepuscular, which means they are most active at dawn and dusk.
While you can find your cat sleeping at night, they may spend part of the night or early morning awake as well.
Some cat owners find it best to keep their kitty out of their bedroom. Others don’t mind their cat sleeping with them, and happily share their blanket.
