Where should a cat sleep? Complete guide to feline rest

Cats are known for being sleepy animals, spending a large part of their day resting. On average, an adult cat can sleep between 15 and 20 minutes. 12 and 16 hours daily, while kittens may spend even more time dreaming. This makes us, as caregivers, wonder where is the best place for our feline friend to rest and how can we ensure that he feels comfortable and safe.

Before you bring your cat home, decide if he or she will be able to sleep with you.

This step is crucial to establish routines and boundaries from the beginning. Cats are creatures of habit and if we allow them to sleep in our bed from day one, it will be difficult to change this habit later on. If you decide that your cat should not sleep with you, be consistent. and do not give in to his insistence, as this can confuse him.

Sleeping with your cat does not necessarily pose a risk to your health, as long as the animal is healthy and has all its vaccinations up to date. Zoonotic diseases They are rare in well-cared-for domestic cats, so sharing space with your pet can be safe and beneficial to strengthen the bond between the two of you.

Reasons to choose a specific place for your cat to sleep

While many cats choose to sleep wherever they please, providing them with a suitable place to rest has multiple benefits:

• Comfort: A suitable bed with soft materials will allow your cat to reach the REM phase of sleep, which is essential for rest.
• Security and environmental control: Placing your cat's bed in a quiet, elevated location can give him or her a sense of protection.
• Stress reduction: Having a specific place to sleep helps minimize conflicts with other animals in the house.

If you decide to purchase a bed for your cat, choose one that is fluffy and easy to cleanAlso, avoid washing their bed with strong detergents, as strong odors can be uncomfortable for felines.

Where should a baby cat sleep?

Kittens require special care during their first nights in a new home. It is normal for them to miss their mother and siblings, so providing them with a cozy environment is essential. Place a blanket with the smell of your old home can help them feel safe.

Young cats, like adults, often prefer warm, elevated places to sleep. Providing them with a bed in a quiet corner or even a padded carrier can be a great option. It is also helpful to leave a night lamp on during the first few days so that the kitten can explore its surroundings without feeling scared.

Tips to ensure your adult cat gets plenty of rest

The location of an adult cat's bed will depend on his personality and preferences. Some recommendations include:

• Elevated areas: Placing your cat's bed on a shelf or scratching post can make your cat feel secure by having a privileged view of his surroundings.
• Away from transit areas: Avoid placing your cat's bed near doors, windows, or areas with a lot of movement, as this can cause stress.
• Temperature setting: In winter, place your bed near a heat source, while in summer, look for a cool, ventilated place.
• Multiple spaces: Provide a variety of sleeping options, such as boxes with blankets, hammocks, or pillows, for your cat to choose from based on their needs.

What if my cat wants to sleep with me?

Many cats prefer to sleep in their caregiver's bed, either for the warmth or the emotional bond you share. If you decide to allow your cat to sleep with you, keep the following in mind:

• Hygiene: Make sure your cat is dewormed and flea free to avoid health problems.
• Sleep rhythms: Cats are crepuscular, meaning they are usually most active at dawn and dusk. This could disrupt your rest.

If you prefer that he does not sleep with you, set limits from the beginning, closing the door to your room and providing him with comfortable alternatives where to rest.

Common mistakes when deciding where your cat should sleep

It is important to avoid certain mistakes that can affect your cat's well-being:

• Don't force your cat to sleep in a place he doesn't like.. Respect his preferences and see where he feels most comfortable.
• Avoid placing your cat's bed near your litter box or food bowl., since cats are very clean animals and prefer to keep these areas separate.
• Don't ignore your need for shelter in times of stress or change, especially if there are other animals or noises in the home.

The cat will be the one to choose its favorite place to sleep. As caregivers, our task is to adapt to its needs and offer it the best possible options so that its rest is full and restful.