Why does my cat sleep under my bed?15 Surprising Reasons Explained!

Here’s the paragraph with the focus keyword adjusted:

“Cats choose to sleep under beds because they feel protected in confined spaces. Why does my cat sleep under my bed? It’s a cozy, quiet area where they can relax, stay warm, or retreat when they’re nervous.”

20 Reasons Your Cat Sleeps Under the Bed: With Tips to Manage Anxiety

Before we start

Before we proceed, remember that under-bed sleeping isn’t a habit for all cats. Certain cats prefer to sleep elsewhere, such as on the bed itself or in a warm, sunny spot on the floor. Some cats may only choose to sleep under the bed occasionally. If your cat prefers not to sleep under the bed, its okay; they’re perfectly fine.

Now that we’ve addressed that, let’s examine why cats often choose to sleep under the bed.

1. Safety

With their curious nature, cats enjoy exploring every little corner of their home. But when frightened or threatened, they often seek out the closest hiding place. The space under the bed is a popular choice for cats, giving them a sense of safety and security.

The bed creates a protective barrier between the cat and the source of their fear, while also providing a good spot to watch what’s going on around them.

If your cat often chooses to sleep under the bed, it might be a sign of anxiety or stress.

2. Changes

As creatures of habit, cats can become stressed by major changes in their environment. If your cat is hiding under the bed, it may be due to recent changes in your daily routines.

For instance, if you have a new baby at home, your cat might prefer sleeping under the bed to avoid the unfamiliar noise and increased activity.

3. Other Animals

If your cat starts hiding under the bed, it could be a response to conflicts with other pets, such as dogs, that they’re not comfortable with. Cats’ natural curiosity may lead them to want to explore the dogs, which can cause a disagreement.

Since dogs tend to be louder than cats, this noise can be alarming or even scary for a cat. As a result, they may choose to rest under the bed where they’re less likely to see or hear the other animals.

4. Anxiety & Stress

Similar to humans, cats can go through anxiety and stress. When cats are feeling anxious or stressed, they may choose to sleep under the bed to find comfort.

Changes in routine, new people or animals, loud noises, and relocating to a new house are typical sources of anxiety and stress for cats.

5. Pregnancy

Similar to sick cats, a pregnant cat may start sleeping under the bed to find a cozy and protected place. To feel safe and secure, pregnant cats tend to cozy up in small, warm areas.

This behavior helps safeguard both the pregnant cat and her unborn kittens from predators.

Should your pregnant cat begin hiding under the bed, it’s essential to see your veterinarian to confirm there are no hidden health issues.

With adequate care and support, your pregnant cat will experience a safe and pleasant pregnancy.

6. Privacy

Your cat may find comfort in the privacy offered by sleeping under the bed.  n households with young children, it’s important to respect their need for undisturbed sleep.

Cats are often solitary by nature, but even those who enjoy company need periodic alone time to relax.

7. It’s Dark

To feel secure and sheltered, cats like to curl up in dark, peaceful places. Hiding under the bed offers your cat a cozy escape from the harsh lights and noises of the world.

8. They’re Bored

A bored cat may find solace under the bed, using it as a place to rest and pass the time. With cats averaging 16 hours of sleep per day, they might simply take a nap if they’re feeling bored.

9. It’s Their Favorite Place

Your cat might find the space under the bed to be their favorite place to sleep. Some cats have their own quirks, often preferring to sleep in small, dark, and cozy areas. If you find your cat sleeping under the bed, it might be because they find it comfortable and enjoyable.

10. New Surrounding

Both you and your cat may find moving to a new house or apartment to be a stressful experience. While you’re occupied with unpacking and arranging your new place, your cat may retreat under the bed, feeling anxious and confused, and possibly sleep there.

With patience and time, your cat will gradually become comfortable and feel at home in their new environment.

11. Temperature

Your cat might be sleeping under the bed due to temperature considerations. If the room temperature is extreme, your cat might seek the stable, more comfortable environment under the bed for sleep.

Ideal temperatures for cats fall between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

12. Sickness

If your cat is feeling ill, they could seek refuge under the bed as a way to hide from you. Sick cats often feel more at ease in smaller, warm spaces where they can curl up and feel secure.

13. Loud Noises

Your cat might seek out a quiet place to sleep due to loud noises and other potential disturbances. If your home is filled with loud individuals or animals, your cat might feel stressed and seek a safe, quiet place.

14. Visitors

Are there guests in your home? Maybe you’ve had family staying in the guest bedroom for a week or two, or a friend has been crashing on your couch.

 When there are unfamiliar people in your house, your cat may seek refuge under the bed, feeling nervous around strangers.

15. Weather

If it’s a hot and sunny day, the house might be warmer than your cat prefers. Sleeping under the bed can offer her a cool, shaded retreat from the warmer temperatures.

A storm may have scared her, prompting her to hide under the bed. As a storm develops, they may seek shelter under the bed as a precaution.

Suggestions and Tips

Here are some tips to avoid stress and promote well-being for your cat.

1. Follow a consistent routine and minimize any unnecessary changes.
2. Ensure your cat has access to a litter box and clean it on a regular basis.
3. Ensure your cat has toys and scratching posts to expend their energy in a positive way.
4. Reach out to your veterinarian for guidance on managing stress in your cat’s life.
5. Make sure your cat has access to various hiding places in the house where they can feel protected.
6. Make time for regular play with your cat to help them stay physically active and entertained.
7. Ensure that your cat’s food and water are always readily available.

What You Should Know

If your cat prefers sleeping under the bed, it’s important to provide them with access to food, water, and a litter box. It’s crucial to check on them frequently to confirm they’re not sick or hurt.

If you notice problematic behavior in your cat, don’t hesitate to talk to your veterinarian.

Why does my cat always sleep under the bed?

When a cat feels the need for more security, they often seek shelter under something to avoid potential threats. Under the bed, there’s no risk of anything attacking from your cat. It provides a cool, dark, and secret spot.

Why does my cat sleep under my bed instead of with me?

Your cat may choose to sleep under the bed instead of with you for a number of reasons. It may prefer a cool, dark, and hidden area where it feels more secure and comfortable.

Changes or stress in the environment may prompt your cat to seek out a hidden, secure spot. Provided your cat is otherwise well, it’s likely just a matter of choosing a quiet and secure location.

Why does my cat sleep under my bed at night?

If a cat needs more security, it tends to find shelter under things to evade threats. The space under the bed offers protection, with a cool, dark, and concealed environment.

Why does my cat like to sleep on my bed when I’m not there?

Cats may choose to sleep on their owners for multiple reasons, including security, marking their territory, displaying affection, seeking warmth, or due to habitual behavior.

This behavior is likely a compliment, and if you enjoy having the extra company in bed, you should welcome it.

Why does my cat sleep under my bed covers?

If your cat chooses to sleep under the covers, it’s likely because they enjoy the warmth and the comforting scent of your presence. If your cat is sensitive to noise, the covers offer a quiet escape from disturbing sounds.

In addition, certain cats like the feeling of being wrapped or swaddled in a blanket for added security.

Why is my cat suddenly sleeping under my bed?

Cat suddenly sleeping under your bed for various reasons:

1. Warmth
2. Anxiety
3. Illness
4. Safety
5. Pain

Why does my cat sleep under my blanket?

If your cat sleeps under the blanket, they probably enjoy the warmth and the familiar scent of you. The blanket also provide a quiet refuge for cats sensitive to noise. Plus, some cats appreciate the added security of being wrapped or swaddled in a blanket.

Cat sleeps under blanket between legs?

It means your kitty feels secure and relaxed with you. Cats find comfort in being enclosed in spaces, as it makes them feel secure. Your cat enjoys the security of being enclosed by your legs, while the soft, fluffy blanket adds extra coziness to the space.

Conclusion

In most cases, why does my cat sleep under my bed is due to harmless reasons. If you’re concerned about this behavior, it’s important to reach out to your vet, particularly if your cat shows signs of distress or pain.

As long as your cat is feeling well and happy, its preference for hiding under the bed is likely a way to ensure it feels secure and safe. Provided your cat seems otherwise well and cheerful, there’s no need for alarm.

FAQ’s