As a lifelong cat owner and a vet for more than 13 years, I know first-hand that cats often choose to sleep in the strangest of places, but why does my cat sleep between my legs?
In this article, I'll cover some of the reasons why your cat might choose to nap here and whether it’s safe and healthy to allow them to sleep in your bed. I'll also explain how to tell whether your cat wants your company when they're dozing.
If you decide that sharing a bed with your cat isn’t for you, it's worth investing in the best cat beds or best heated cat beds to ensure they have somewhere comfortable to sleep instead.
Why does my cat sleep between my legs?
Here are a few of the most likely reasons for this cat sleeping position:
1. It’s warm
If you’ve got a cat who regularly sleeps on the floorboards overlying a hot water pipe or sprawls out in the sunny spot where the sun is shining through the window, you won’t be surprised to find out that warmth is a really big factor when a cat chooses where to sleep! The cozy spot created when your cat is surrounded by your body heat is the perfect place for a catnap.
2. It feels safe
Cats can struggle to fully switch off, even when they’re sleeping. After all, they need to stay alert in case of any threats. Your presence surrounding them makes them feel safer, enabling them to relax.
3. They trust you
If your cat sleeps between your legs, it’s a good indication that they trust you. They’re willing to make themselves vulnerable to threats while letting you take over the role of their protector, keeping them safe and letting them get the rest they need.
4. You smell good
Cats have a great sense of smell, and scent is a really important aspect of how cats feel and communicate. Your scent will be familiar to your cat and help them feel comfortable, relaxed, and safe. And don’t forget – because cats are covered in lots of scent glands, your scent will also be mixed with theirs, which helps them feel reassured and relaxed.
5. They don’t want to be on their own
Cats are often considered quite independent, and they certainly enjoy time alone. However, they’re also really curious, which means if you disappear upstairs to sleep or go for a nap on the couch, they’re probably interested in what you’re doing. If you’re usually around, your cat is even more likely to feel anxious or lonely when you’re not around, which might contribute to them wanting to be around you more even when you’re sleeping.
6. They can leave if they like
Although sleeping between your legs is really cozy, comfortable and being surrounded makes them feel safe, it’s also really easy for them to get away if they want to. Cats don’t like to be too restricted or contained, so this space is perfect!
Should you let your cat sleep with you?
It’s not necessarily a problem to let your cat sleep with you, and it’s great for bonding and closeness. However, it’s important to understand that there are a few risks to be aware of.
Firstly, keep your cat up to date with parasite treatments – you don’t want fleas in your bed, after all. Second, if you have allergies, you might find that they’re worse if your cat has been sleeping in your bed.
Thirdly, and this is certainly the case with my own cats, allowing your cat to sleep on your bed might disrupt your sleep. Not every cat will snooze all night and remain completely still, some will get the zoomies, start kneading, or wake you up with loving cat kisses – not necessarily the recipe for a great night's sleep. If you can relate, you'll want to read our guide on how to get a cat to sleep at night.
On the other hand, some people find sleeping with their cat improves their sleep quality, petting animals has been shown to reduce stress, and the sound of your cat purring and their warmth could help you sleep better than usual.
Ultimately, whether or not your cat is allowed to sleep with you is a personal choice, but be aware that if they get used to sleeping in or on your bed, it’ll be a hard habit to break!
Should I pet my cat while sleeping?
When cats sleep, they often doze, remaining semi-conscious and aware. This allows them to respond to threats and keep themselves safe. Petting them while they are sleeping may reduce your stress and help you drift off, but it’s worth checking your cat's body language to see if they want to be petted or would prefer to be left alone.
If they consistently move away from your hand or bite or scratch you, it’s likely that they’d rather have some time to rest without being disturbed.
If your cat chooses to sleep between your legs, congratulations! This is a great sign that they trust you and feel safe in your company. If you’re comfortable with them sleeping with you, you could both get a better night’s sleep.
But co-sleeping with your cat isn’t for everyone – some cats are so busy and restless at night that they disturb their owner’s sleep and some pet parents just don’t feel comfortable having their cat in their bed, either due to allergies or hygiene concerns.
Read next: Why does my cat sleep by my head? and Why does my cat sleep at my feet?
