Ever woken up to a 3 a.m. surprise as your feline friend snuggles up next to your head? It’s a common scenario among cat owners, and while it might seem like a quirky habit, there’s actually some science and psychology behind it.
The Science Behind the Snuggle
Lisa Stemcosky, a certified cat behavior consultant and owner of PawLitically Correct, explains that this behavior is not just about comfort and warmth, but also about bonding. “By laying on their person, cats can mix their scent with their person’s,” she says. This scent exchange is a form of social bonding that cats engage in to strengthen their relationship with their human companions.
Dr. Mikel Maria Delgado, a certified animal behaviorist and co-owner of Feline Minds, adds that the sebaceous glands in our faces and scalps give off a unique scent that cats find particularly appealing. “That scent and familiarity may be comforting for cats who are very attached to their human,” she notes. Furthermore, cats have a preference for warmer temperatures than humans, which makes our heads an attractive spot for them to seek out warmth.
Navigating Allergies and Sleep Quality
If there’s a family member with cat allergies, Stemcosky advises keeping the cat away from the mouth and nose area during sleep. This can help minimize the risk of triggering allergic reactions.
Discouraging Head-Sleeping and Encouraging Alternatives
For those who would prefer their cat to find a different sleeping spot, Delgado recommends creating a cozy and inviting space at the foot of the bed or in another part of the bedroom. Heated cat beds can be particularly enticing to cats. “Cats are usually quite attracted to them, and they are a great way to make other areas of the house more attractive for sleeping, especially when they are turned on only at night,” she says.
Embracing the Feline Affection
If you don’t mind sharing your pillow with your cat, there’s no need to worry. As long as this behavior is not new or accompanied by signs of physical or emotional distress, it’s a normal and common cat habit. In fact, it’s a sign that your cat enjoys your company and is a wonderful way to enhance the human-animal bond. “It’s a great way to create and intensify the human-animal bond,” Stemcosky emphasizes.
From personal experience, I can attest to the joy of waking up to a purring cat curled up next to my head. It’s a small price to pay for the love and companionship they provide. However, for those seeking a more peaceful night’s sleep without feline interference, the tips provided can help guide your cat towards a more suitable sleeping arrangement.