Cats have a unique way of making simple moments appear like mysteries and we are desperate to solve them. As a cat owner, you may find your cat sleeping on your head. It may seem odd but felines have their own peculiar logic for showing this behavior. You may ask yourself why does my cat sleep by my head? Is it only weird or are there any deeper reasons for this behavior?
In this article, you will explore the following topics:
Why does my cat sleep on my head?
Is it okay to let my cat sleep by my head?
Solutions for cats that sleep on your head?
What does your cats sleeping habit say about your bond?
Why Do Cats Sleep on Your Head?
Cats sleep on your head for various reasons such as seeking warmth, comfort, security, seeking attention, making territory, medical concerns and more. Let’s get the details:
1. Seeking Warmth
One of the main reasons for sleeping on your head is for seeking warmth. Naturally, cats have a higher body temperature than humans. Their approximate body temperature is between 101-102.5°F (38-39°C). Cats want to maintain that warmth and seek the coziest place for curling up.
Your head offers warmth all over the night. That’s why it becomes an attractive napping spot for your cat who is looking to conserve energy and stay toasty. The head is the least likely to move. Compared to other parts of the body, it gives your cat a little bit of extra stability while your pet sleeps.
It is undeniable that cats are heat-seeking missiles, aiming their heads straight for your cranium!
2. Comfort and Security
By reputation for independence, cats are actually one of the most social animals. In fact, experts agree that the preference for snoozing near or on its owner's body usually comes from comfort and security. Your cat feels safest close to you and believes that your scent is a security blanket.
It is interesting that your head is an intense source of your smell. Because, the scalp bears sweat glands. Cats may consider it as a scented "comfort pillow." Moreover, their behavior might be a sign of bonding. Sleeping on your head, they show their trust and affection towards you. Because they can’t speak and this is the only way they show their affection by staying beside their owners.
3. Attention-Seeking Behavior
Cats are very blatant about what they want, and sometimes, sleeping on your head simply means they want your attention. By laying on your face or head, they're establishing closeness to where you convey sounds most. After all, the head is where the eyes, voice, and facial expressions come from.
Sometimes, this behavior can also be a great way for walking you up for a midnight snack or extra cuddle time. Your pet properly knows how to get your attention though it is by interfering with your beauty sleep!
4. Marking Their Territory
Sleeping on the owner's head is one of the cat's resting positions. They have scent glands that spread all over their body. Their paws and face specially contain the glands. If they sleep on your head or rub against you, it may be because of making their own territory. This activity assures other animals (and even humans!) to keep their distance.
This territorial behavior is a normal and instinctual aspect of feline life. It is their way of saying, “You are part of my life”. Such a condition may well explain the behavior of a few cats that constantly want to cuddle up with their human friends at night.
5. Medical Concerns
Sometimes, because of medical concerns your cat sleeps on your head. It is rare but often happens. If they’re unusually clingy or restless at night, it may be the sign of health issues like anxiety, pain, or even hyperthyroidism. These issues disrupt a cat’s normal behavior patterns.
Keep noticing your cat for other signs of distress like excessive vocalizations, frequent grooming, or some change in appetite. Consult a veterinarian to find out if there are any medical problems too.
Is It Okay to Let My Cat Sleep by My Head?
Normally, it is not recommended to let your cat sleep by your head because of accidental scratching, allergies, and disturbance in your sleep. But if you want you can allow it responsibly. Let’s know the pros and cons of this behavior before letting your pet do this.
Pros:
Bonding with your feline friend
The warmth and comfort they provide
The potential for improved sleep owing to feelings of safety and security
Pure aesthetics (let's be honest: There are few things more cute than a little cat curled up on your head)
Cons:
Disruptive sleep if they move around or wake you up in the middle of the night
Allergies or discomfort resulting from their fur or dander situated near your face.
The possibility of scratches or bites if they get rattled or stressed.
Health-related problems that might be manifested in their behavioral patterns, which may be a consequence of medical issues beneath the surface.
Solutions for Cats That Sleep on Your Head
If you don’t want to let your cat continue this behavior because of disrupting your sleep, you should not be worried. There are ways to redirect this behavior while still ensuring your cat feels loved and secure. Let’s learn step by step:
1. Provide Warm, Cozy Alternatives
Offer your cat's love of warmth by providing thermally appealing alternatives. It will help to redirect them relocate from your head to a more appropriate spot. Investing in a heated cat bed or blanket is a good idea for creating their own cozy corner. If your pet is very demanding to sleep beside you, a bedside Cat Hammock Bed is a great item for this. It is simple to attach with your bed and let your pet sleep near you.
You could also strategically position soft blankets designed for cats or padded cushions in other favored sleeping spots (like the foot of your bed or a nearby chair) to encourage their use.
2. Practice Positive Reinforcement
Cats respond well to positive reinforcement. When your cat doesn't sleep at your head during the night and finds the designated sleeping spots, then reward him/her with treats, praise, or gentle petting as soon as he/she wakes up.
Never punish your furry friend for sleeping by your head. Punishment instills anxiety in your pet and can result in behaviors that are much harder to deal with. Instead, redirecting their behavior lovingly and consistently is where you need to focus.
3. Establish Boundaries
If your cat’s nightly sleeping habit can’t be redirected after offering a designated napping spot, it might be time to reconsider your setup. Keep your bedroom door closed and make your pet understand that your bed is not for him/her. This might lead to some initial protests. But don’t worry!
To ease the transition, replace the inviting sleeping area in another room for your cat. Pairing it with one of their favorite toys or blankets can help the process go smoothly.
4. Check with Your Vet
It would be best to visit the vet if suddenly your cat started sleeping on your head or getting too clingy. Changes in behaviour are often associated with some underlying medical or emotional issues that should be addressed.
Visit a professional vet regularly to check that your pet’s habit is quirky but healthy.
In Summary
We have already discussed the answer of the question “why do cats sleep on your head” and the solution to it. Remember that when your cat sleeps on your head, it’s because they trust you and find comfort in being near you. While this behavior might take some adjusting to, it’s ultimately a reflection of the deep bond you share. So, never punish them for changing this behavior, rather offer them alternatives.
If you find it irresistible, enjoy their nocturnal snuggles. If you want uninterrupted sleep, you shouldn’t hesitate to try the strategies above to gently encourage new habits.
References:
"Why Does My Cat Sleep on My Head?"
Author: Dr. Wailani Sung, MS, PhD, DVM, DACVB
Publication Date: April 22, 2024
Source: PetMD
URL: https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/why-does-my-cat-sleep-on-my-head"Why does my cat sleep by my head? 10 heart-warming reasons"
Author: Emma Chandley, BVetMed PGCertSAS MRCVS
Source: PetsRadar
URL: https://www.petsradar.com/advice/why-does-my-cat-sleep-by-my-head
