by Nomi Berger
If your cat’s crazy about cuddling, you’re undoubtedly used to waking up and finding a warm, furry body stretched out along your back or chest.
Have you ever wondered WHY you’re so often your kitty’s favorite spot to snuggle while she purr, purr, purrs herself sweetly to sleep?
If so, paw-lease consider the following:
Cats crave warmth. Fond of catching the sun’s first morning rays, whether it’s on a window ledge or on the floor, cats will soak up those rays’ soothing warmth like human sun worshippers at the beach! But once the sun goes down, removing its light and its heat, cats quickly transfer their focus to YOU for the warmth they crave by curling up in your lap on the couch or burrowing with you under the covers in bed.
People are particularly comfortable. Because cats can sleep for 15 hours or more every day, they’re constantly searching for plush and peaceful places to settle. Sometimes it’s a baby soft blanket or a basket of fresh laundry, a cozy cat bed or an especially plump pillow. But if you happen to be stretched out on the sofa or lying leisurely on a lounge, your belly will quickly surpass those other spots, becoming, in short order, your cat’s idea of utter bliss.
Cats adore attention. If you’re away during the day and return home in the evening, don’t be surprised if you find your cat waiting eagerly by the door to greet you. Second only to being fed is being your shadow, as she follows after you while coyly treating you to a chorus of meows and a series of head butts in the hopes that you’ll reciprocate with a shower of kisses and plenty of pets.
Cats savor safety. Much like people, cats seek out places of safety and security. And so, when your cat’s in search of somewhere to sleep, as warm and supple as it is familiar and comfortable, what more reassuring refuge could she find than your very own body? You’re figuratively her shield against all predators – fearsome or fictional — allowing her to drift off to dreamland without a care in her kitty cat world.
Your sounds and smells can soothe her. When your cat sleeps on top of you, she may find the steady beating of your heart coupled with the rise and fall of your chest as you inhale and exhale especially reassuring and soothing, thereby lulling her into gentle slumber. She may also find your body’s distinctive scent particularly pleasant because she associates it with the care, companionship and safety you provide her, relaxing her own body more deeply and completely.
In short, cats are territorial by nature and often “mark” their favorite people as their own. The fact that your kitty sleeps on top of you is indicative of her absolute trust in you and that she considers your body the sweetest, safest spot to be.
