Why Does My Cat Sleep Under the Bed

Cat owners often found their cats love to sleep under the bed. This is a curious behavior. You might also see this hiding behavior even if you offer your pet plush cushions, soft blankets or expensive beds. You don’t need to be worried about it. This post will uncover the reasons for your cat’s preference for the seemingly mysterious space under the bed. We will know about their natural instincts, need for comfort and potential health consideration. You will also know how to encourage your pet to enjoy a cozy, comfortable and safer napping spot with soft blankets for cats and luxurious beds.

Why Does Your Cat Sleep Under the Bed?

Like their wild ancestors, domestic cat’s behavior has roots in the wild. Believe it or not, domestic cats also hold many instincts from the wild. An enclosed space such as the area under your bed provides a sense of security for cats. In the wild, felines would often choose dens, burrows, or thick vegetation to conceal themselves from predators and take a nap between hunts. For your house cat, hiding instinct may mean snuggling under your bed or into other tucked-away spots.

The Comfort Factors That Encourge Them To Stay Under Bed

Privacy Meets Comfort

It prioritizes the privacy of the cats. The space under the bed provides a quiet and undisturbed atmosphere. The low light and enclosed surroundings simulate places in nature that cats might feel safe in, letting them take that well-deserved nap. Moreover, hiding in bed has an additional advantage of temperature control. It is cooler during summer and traps the warmth in winter. Cats might also be inclined to watch the world (or your feet) from an unseen vantage point. Everybody knows how much cats love to spy on us from behind closed doors, and beneath the bed is one such prime hiding location.

Familiar Smells

Smell is another reason for hiding under bed. Beds carry the scent of owners that make them familiar. One area where comforting nature smells may provide a haven for the unspoken relaxation of the feline. Also, if you keep their food under bed or litter, these items spread their familiar scents and make comfort.

Health and Safety Concerns

This hiding behaviour can also happen because of discomfort, fear, or health issues. It's crucial to understand when their behavior is a sign of contentment and when it might stem from potential problems.

Signs of Anxiety or Stress

If your pet spends too much time under the bed and doesn't feel interested to interact, it can be a sign of anxiety or stress. Stress may have been the trigger: a new home, an addition of new pets, or any other changes in the environment may elicit behavior whereby cats seek refuge in safer spots. Moreover, cats sometimes suffer from separation anxiety. This is another reason for their hiding. Be attentive to whether their hiding behavior is linked with other signs, such as excessive grooming or a decreased appetite.

Health Issues

If your cat suddenly starts spending time under the bed other than their usual naps, it is time to consult with a vet. Sometimes, illnesses or conditions like joint pain or an upset stomach can lead them to seek a quiet, secluded spot.

Weight & Mobility Concerns

Continuously hiding and inactivity are potential causes of cat’s weight problems and obesity.  If getting underneath the bed becomes the primary activity of the cat instead of playing or exercising, something should be done about incorporating some exercise in its routine.

More Places for Their Hiding

This is a natural instinct and is not limited to only beds. You may also discover them in  small nooks, cardboard boxes, under the blanket or the back of closets. These types of little spaces make them feel secure. Because this is easy for them to control the access point and away from the sight of people.

Encouraging a Healthy Sleep Environment

A cat deserves to bask in warmth and comfort while being entertained by the family. Below are the tips to maintain a healthy sleeping spot for your cat encouraging it to stay away from hiding under the bed.

Provide Alternative Cozy Spots

• Invest in high-quality cat cozy beds and blankets, caves, or teepees that will be designated spots to mimic enclosed spaces.

• Place these in quieter areas of your home to encourage relaxation without feeling exposed.

Offer Vertical Spaces

Cats love to lay on high places. So, offering them cat threes or shelves can provide them a sense of safety and comfort. This would also serve as an excellent vantage point for observing the goings-on from a safe distance.

Involve Them in Play

Daily play sessions are not only for entertainment but also offer them exercise and reduce stress or boredom. Wand toys, puzzle feeders, and laser pointers are a few fantastic options for getting your cat moving!

Diffuse Stress Naturally

Pheromone diffusers or sprays may be beneficial to create a calm atmosphere. Products like Feliway mimicking feline facial pheromones, have been shown to reduce stress naturally.

Make the Under-Bed Space Less Appealing

If you want to keep your cat away from under the bed, you can block access to that area. For blocking storage containers or barriers could be great tools. Nonetheless, it doesn't address the real cause behind the behavior-your cat may bolt due to stress or anxiety. Always use this solution in conjunction with the appropriate calming methods or environmental therapy. Providing soft blankets for cats and beds as well as hiding spaces like caves are the best solution.

Some FAQs:

Q. Why Do Cats Hide Under Blankets?

A: Cats have a natural instinct to love hiding sport, a warm and comfortable place where they get a sense of security. Blankets particularly lend an inviting aspect with a warm, den-like feel that came from their wild ancestors.

Q: Why Do Cats Like Soft Blankets?

A: Soft blankets mimic the warmth and comfort of their mother’s fur. Their natural instinct is to seek out safe and snug environments. Cuddling up on a blanket caters to their fondness for soft textures, since cats are very sensitive to touch. Additionally, it's an ideal place for kneading, a behavior linked to their kitten days that helps them feel calm and happy.

Q: Can Cats Breathe Under Blankets​?

A: It is a great question about can cats breathe under blankets as they love to stay on these. Cat’s respiratory systems are like humans, that's why they can breathe under blankets. However, it is important to ensure that the blanket is not heavy or tightly wrapped. Breathable cat blankets are a great option in this case.

Give Your Cat the Best Nap Spots

Understanding your cat’s behavior can enhance the connection you have and assist you in creating a nurturing, stress-free space for them. Afterall, it is important to keep them content and healthy. It doesn’t matter if they enjoy staying under the bed or curling up in a special spot. You don't need to be worried if your pet hides under the bed as it is their natural instinct. Offer them a comfortable, cozy and secure place, they will slowly come out of this behavior.

If you are also a dog owner with a cat owner and want to keep your both pets in luxurious sleeping space read our article about dog room ideas for creating cozy space for both of your cat and dogs.