Last updated on: September 5, 2023 by Crystal Uys
It is estimated that more than 50% of cats sleep 12 to 18 hours per 24-hour day, and almost 40% of them sleep more than 18 hours! So it should come as no surprise that a cat will find all sorts of different ways to spend their time sleeping, since they do a lot of it.
They might find a cardboard box to nap in, sleep on the couch while sitting upright, and even decide to sleep in your bed. Sometimes they sleep in funny positions just because! However, sometimes there are reasons why they sleep the way they do, such as when they snuggle between your legs. This is mainly for warmth, but there are other interesting reasons why your cat may decide to sleep between your legs at any given time.
The 7 reasons why cats sleep between your legs:
1. The space is warm and safe
The space between your legs presents a nice balance of body heat that a cat will definitely appreciate in the middle of the night or on a cold weekend afternoon. Cats tend to gravitate towards warm places when they are ready for a nap or a long sleep. Not only does the space between your legs feel nice and warm, but it can also provide a feeling of safety and security for your cat when lying there. They know they can trust you, so they perceive that your legs provide a protective barrier against possible predators and other dangers.
2. It helps create a deeper connection
Sleeping between your legs can be a way for your cat to form a deeper bond with you, especially if you lead a busy life and aren’t home much throughout the day. Being able to spend time in close proximity can help build trust and affection, which should make interactions at other times more pleasant and enjoyable overall.
3. It provides an opportunity for deep sleep
Snuggling between your legs gives your cat a great opportunity to sleep soundly. By instinct, cats tend to feel vulnerable when they sleep. Therefore, they try to find places to sleep where they will have a vantage point and an easy escape if a predator approaches. Often a cat does not fall into a deep sleep precisely so that it can stay alert. This is part of why he sleeps so much throughout the day.
However, when they sleep in a place where they feel safe, comfortable and protected, they are more likely to fall asleep deeply and regain their energy. You may find that your cat has a lot of energy and is quite lively when she wakes up from a long, deep nap between your legs.
4. The position is comfortable
Your cat may sleep between your legs for no other reason than he finds it comfortable. If the space is as comfortable as any for him and there is the benefit of spending time together, there is a good chance that your cat will choose to sleep between your legs over others. options.
5. It offers a great view
Cats like to sleep in places where they feel like they have a good view of their surroundings. Sleeping between your legs may not give them the best view of everything going on around them, but it helps them hide while they spy on their immediate surroundings. Your paws act as a shield, making your cat feel hidden from the world around them.
6. It’s a way of claiming territory
Another reason your cat might sleep between your legs is to pretend that you are their territory. In their minds, they transmit their scent to your body through touch while they sleep, which other cats and animals will smell and understand. This is a way for them to establish themselves as playing a dominant role in their environment, which is your home. If a new cat arrives at your home, you may notice that your current cat tries to claim ownership by rubbing up against you and sleeping on or near you as often as possible. This may continue until they get used to the new cat’s presence.
7. It can help relieve stress
Sleeping between your legs can help relieve your feline friend’s stress levels. Whether it’s the arrival of a new pet or baby in the house, a move to a new place, or an illness, stress can take over your cat, just like he can do for a human. Being able to snuggle where they feel comfortable and cared for can help relieve this stress and allow them to enjoy greater peace of mind overall.
How to Stop Your Cat from Sleeping Between Your Legs
If you’re uncomfortable with your feline sleeping between your legs, you shouldn’t feel obligated to let this happen. There are a few things you can do to prevent your cat from engaging in this behavior without sacrificing their comfort and sense of security. Here are the options to consider:
- To try placing a heating pad in a cat’s bed near where you sleep to mimic the warmth your legs provide. Place your cat in the bed just before you touch the bag yourself and lie down so she can’t get between your legs until she settles down elsewhere.
- Put a t-shirt you recently wore in your bed near you and encourage your cat to sleep in it. Your scent on the shirt might help him feel enveloped by you like he would if he were sleeping between your legs.
- Use a clicker or treats to train your cat sleep close to you, not on top of you or between your legs. The process may cost you some sleep at first, but the results should be worth it.
Summary
The most common reason a cat sleeps between the legs of its human companion is for warmth and comfort. If you don’t enjoy the experience, you don’t have to worry about hurting your cat’s feelings. If they have a safe, comfortable place to sleep elsewhere, they should be happy to do so with your guidance and encouragement.
Featured image credit: IKMedia, Shutterstock
About the Author
Mom cat to Ivy – a feisty little rescue kitten who is her one and only child. For the moment! Throughout her life, she was introduced to the special love found in the bond with a cat. Having owned several felines, she is more than certain that their love is unmatched, unconditional and unlike any other. Passionate about educating the public about everything there is to know about felines, their behavior and their unique personalities, Crystal is dedicated to ensuring that all cats and their owners know the importance of mindful living – and to love!