Weird cat sleeping positions: What do they mean?

    cat sleeping positions

Let’s go on a journey into the world of cat naps, where each snooze pose tells a tale of feline whimsy and charm! While science may be snoozing on this adorable subject, we've pondered these purr-fect positions and come up some playful ideas of what each one means.  

 
 
  • The Belly Bared. Picture your kitty sprawled out, belly up, in a state of serene slumber. With their fluffy tummy exposed to the world, they're reaching peak relaxation levels. Your cat's inner Zen master is shining through!
  • The Loaf. Behold the majestic loaf pose, where your cat sits upright with paws tucked in, resembling a perfectly baked loaf of bread. But don't be fooled by their loaf-like appearance—they're just taking a quick catnap, ready to pounce into action at a moment's notice.
  • The Pretzel. Watch in wonder as your furry acrobat twists and turns into a shape that defies explanation and imitation. This quirky pose signals a playful mood, with your cat itching for some post-nap shenanigans.
  • The Curl. Is it a cat or a cozy donut? Your feline friend curls up into a tight ball, seeking warmth and comfort in this adorable sleep position. Your kitty is confronting the cold like a true snuggle champion.
  • The Side Slumber. Catch your cat lounging lazily on their side, limbs dangling in blissful abandon. They've officially hit snooze mode and are indulging in some well-deserved beauty rest.
  • The Box. Set out a box and behold the magic as your cat transforms into a box-dwelling explorer. With instincts as wild as ever, they see this snug space as the ultimate hideout.
  • The Cuddle. Prepare for maximum cuteness overload as your furry friend cozies up with a favorite toy, a fellow pet or—best of all—you! This sweet sleeping style signals a craving for love and connection, making it the height of cuddle-worthy cat behavior.

The next time you see your cat taking a snooze, test out our theories and see if they match your whiskered friend's slumber style.

Have questions about your cat’s sleep patterns? Live Chat anytime for free* with a licensed veterinary professional through the myVCA™ app. Download now to get started. >>
Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple's App Store and Google Play.