Cat sleeping positions and what they mean

Updated 22/02/2024

Curious about the secret language of cat sleeping positions? Whether they’re curled up like a loaf of bread, striking a Superman stance, or covering their paws with their face, our furry felines sleep in the most mysterious ways. And these poses aren’t random, either; we’re decoding each cat sleeping position’s meaning to reveal the hidden messages your kitty cat might be trying to say. 

Curled up in a ball 

Adorably known as the “Crescent” or “Donut”, it’s super common to see furry felines curled up in a cute, fuzzy ball while they sleep, heads touching their feet and their tail tucked in. Kitty cats instinctively snuggle into this position as it helps them stay warm and protects those all-important organs found in their abdomen. Sure, the only “danger” to a house cat’s belly might be tummy tickles from their pet parents, but deep down, they’re still driven by their natural instinct to protect themselves from predators while sleeping.

Belly up

On the flip side, if your purr pal sleeps with their belly up and paws in the air, it’s a sign they’re totally at ease in their environment. As cats are naturally inclined to protect the vital organs found in their abdomen, lounging on their back means they feel safe and comfortable. It may also be a way of lowering their body temperature when it’s hot, as sleeping in this position allows airflow to cool them down.

This pose might be the cat’s pajamas of all cat sleep positions, but just because your furry feline’s showing off their belly doesn’t mean they want a rub. Unlike their doggy counterparts, most cats don’t love the tummy tickles, especially if it means waking up from their blissful slumber. 

Sprawling sideways 

Similar to the belly-up pose, the sideways sprawl leaves your furry friend’s vital organs vulnerable to attack, so it’s a tell-tale sign they’re in total relaxation mode. With the legs out and the belly half exposed, it might not be quite as daring as the belly up position (cats can still leap to their feet pretty quickly if need be), but still an indicator your purr pal feels relaxed and safe. And just like sleeping belly up, stretching out sideways on a cool tile floor or in a shady spot is a great way to cool down - you should try it one day! 

The Loaf of Bread

It’s the cat sleeping position that needs no introduction - paws are curled under the body, the head is upright, and eyes are closed in a picture of peace and contentment. While your purr pal might not be in a super deep sleep in the loaf position, it’s still a sign they’re relaxed and at ease in their environment. Don’t be fooled though - your furry friend could spring into action if need be and their vital organs are still in a protected position. Tucking into the loaf position is also a way of conserving heat in winter months, as cats curl up to keep themselves warm and toasty. 

The Superman 

A kitty cat in the Superman position is sprawled on their belly with their front paws and back legs stretched out, as if ready to take flight. This sleeping position is a sign your furry friend is relaxed and comfortable, and while they will be able to snooze like this for hours, they’re also ready to jump up at a moment’s notice (just like Superman). 

Perched up high 

Our furry felines are the reigning monarchs of their domains, and they love peering down at their kingdom from their lofty perches. High spots like the top of the fridge, cupboards, and cat trees make for the perfect throne, and keep them well away from hazards like the vacuum cleaner and curious little hands. From their vantage point, cats can safely keep watch over all the comings and goings without the inconvenience of being disturbed. 

The Contortionist 

Legs are sticking out in all directions, spine’s twisted in the most awkward angle, and neck’s lolling to the side - is this sleeping position just a random quirk, or is it a clever ruse intended to throw predators off? While it might look odd, as long as your cat’s comfy, it’s all good - just make sure your furry feline’s not sleeping this way to avoid pain from a sore spot.

Sitting upright

Catching your kitty snoozing upright is adorable - the back is supported and legs are stretched out in front of them with the belly exposed, demonstrating your furry friend is relaxed but ready to spring into action at the same time.

On you

Every pet parent or cat sitter dreams of the moment their furry feline dozes off on them - it’s the ultimate demonstration of love, trust, and connection. Kitty cats often opt for a person’s chest, where the rhythm of the heartbeat soothes them and your body heat keeps them warm. Sure, you might not get the best night’s sleep, but at least they will!

Near you 

Cat sleeping positions with owners vary, and while your fuzzy friend might not sleep directly on you, sleeping nearby is still a sign of trust and affection - just because they need a little space doesn’t mean they don’t love you. 

In a box

Sleeping is a vulnerable state to be in, and that’s why our feline friends love snoozing in cardboard boxes (and any other containers and cubby holes, for that matter). Not only do snuggly hideaways like these make them feel warm and cozy, but they also keep them safe and hidden from potential predators. Furry friends might “melt” into cozy spaces like this when they’re feeling threatened or vulnerable, especially during changes to their environment or when a new person (like a cat sitter) enters their space. 

Eyes half open

Ahh the classic “pretending not to sleep but can’t keep my eyes open” pose. When you catch your kitty snoozing with their eyes half shut, it’s a sign they’re ready for anything - they’re relaxing but they’ve still got their guard up. This cat sleeping position could also be a sign your furry friend’s suffering from an eye problem, so keep an eye out (pun intended) for symptoms such as squinting, pawing at the eye, swelling or discharge, or if the translucent third eyelid is visible while your kitty cat is awake. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your purr pal to the vet for a check-up. 

Paws over the eyes

Nothing says “Do not disturb” like when a furry feline covers their eyes with their paws. Not only does this block out the light to ensure they get a more peaceful slumber, but it also provides warmth and an added layer of protection around their face. 

In a cuddle puddle

When you spot your cat cozying up with their furry siblings (be it other kitties or their doggy counterparts), it’s more than just a cute photo op. This is a sign they feel safe and content, it helps them stay warm, and it offers the added bonus of “safety in numbers”.

Tucked up 

Our furry friends love burrowing under blankets and covers to find warm dens to snooze in. Tucking themselves up like this creates a safe haven, and being surrounded by your scent adds an extra layer of comfort for them.  

The Headpress 

If you catch your kitty cat sleeping with their head pressed against the wall, this could be a sign something’s seriously wrong. While it could be interpreted as a quirky napping pose, it may also indicate anything from a minor headache to more serious issues like lead poisoning, infections, or even tumors, so it’s a good idea to take a trip to the vet. 

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.

It’s clear there’s a lot you can learn from your cat’s sleeping positions, and while many indicate the health and happiness of your furry feline, remember that some may be signs of discomfort and illness. That’s why cat sitters are the best pet care solution - not only do they give your furry friend all the love and attention they need while you’re away, but they also keep a close eye on your precious purr pal and let you know if anything seems awry.