Cats have their own unique ways of finding comfortable places to sleep, and it turns out that our heads have become a popular choice for them. While it may seem strange, cats usually sleep on heads to seek warmth, mark territory, express affection, and find comfort and security reminiscent of their kittenhood huddling behavior.

Here is a breakdown of each different reason for this behavior in your feline:

1. Seeking Cozy Warmth

First off, cats are naturally drawn to warm spots. They love soaking up the sun in the summer and snuggling close to radiators in the winter. Your body temperature is like a cozy oasis for them. So when they curl up on your head or snuggle near it on your pillow, they look for the comforting body heat source you naturally provide.

2. Marking Territory with Pheromones

Cats have scent glands around their head that release pheromones. When they rub their face on you or your pillow, they leave their unique scent to mark their territory and communicate with other cats. 

So, when your feline friend rubs their face on you or your pillow, they're leaving their unique scent, claiming you as part of their territory. It's their way of saying, "This is mine, and I feel safe and familiar here."

3. Expressing Affection and Inclusion

Cats form strong bonds with their social group, including their human companions. Through grooming, rubbing, and transferring pheromones, they show affection and create a sense of unity. When your cat licks your hair or nuzzles against you, they are including you in their social circle.

4. Continuation of Kittenhood Comfort

Additionally, an interesting tidbit is that when cats are kittens, they spend much time huddled together with their siblings. It's their source of comfort and security. So, sleeping on your head can be seen as a continuation of that habit. They find that same sense of comfort and reassurance by staying close to you.

If you wake up with your cat calmly sleeping on your head and feel comfortable with it, go ahead and embrace their behavior. It's a sign they find warmth, security, and familiarity in your presence. 

Risks of Letting Your Cats Sleep on Your Head

While it may seem cute to have your cat snooze on your head, it's important to know the risks involved.

  • Sleep Disturbance: Cats have different sleep cycles and may disrupt your sleep with their movements, scratching, and snoring, affecting your restfulness.
  • Disease Transmission: Although the risk of transmitting a cat disease is generally low, maintaining a healthy cat with regular checkups, vaccinations, and flea & tick control is essential for disease prevention.
  • Consider Your Health: If you have a weak immune system or young children at home, be cautious about cats sleeping on your head.
  • Watch for Aggressive Behavior: Cats in close proximity to your head and face may accidentally scratch or bite if startled or uncomfortable.

For any concerns about your cat's behavior or health, consult a veterinarian or cat behavior consultant for guidance.

Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?

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Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?
1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?

Should My Pet Be Seen by a Veterinarian?

1. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s appetite?
2. Does your pet have diarrhea or loose stools?
3. Have you noticed changes in your pet’s thirst/water consumption?
4. Is your pet having accidents in the house?
5. Is your pet pacing and unable to settle?
6. Is your pet panting more than usual?
7. Is your pet whining or vocalizing more than usual?
8. Is your pet shaking more than usual?
9. Is your pet hiding or avoiding physical contact more than usual?
10. Is your pet more lethargic and sleeping more than usual?
11. Are you concerned about changes in your pet’s behavior?
12. Is your pet scratching their ears?
13. Is your pet licking their paws more than usual?
14. Does your pet have a rash?
15. Is your pet moving more slowly than usual or having a harder time getting up or down?
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How to Stop Cats from Sleeping on Your Head

To keep your cat from snoozing on your head, here are some simple strategies you can try:

  • Gentle Removal: Gently remove your cat from your head whenever they try to settle there. Doing this consistently can make them reconsider and find another cozy spot.
  • Cozy Cat Bed: Provide your cat with their own warm and cozy bed. Choose one with soft materials to make it extra inviting. Add an item of your clothing with your scent to make it even more comforting and familiar.
  • Training Routine: Train your cat to sleep in their designated area. Make your bedroom off-limits during bedtime and gradually guide them to their special sleeping spot with their preferred bedding and your clothing.
  • Deterrent Sprays: Use deterrent sprays with scents that cats dislike, like eucalyptus or citrus. Spray these in areas where you don't want your cat to sleep. Test different scents to find what works best for your cat.

By trying these strategies, you can discourage your cat from sleeping on your head and help them find their own cozy resting spot.

Finding Balance and Bonding

Sleeping with a cat on your head can create a unique bond and demonstrates your pet’s trust and affection. As a responsible pet parent, it's essential to balance your need for rest and personal space while ensuring the well-being of your feline companion. Ultimately, finding a middle ground between your desire for restful nights and your cat's affectionate tendencies is crucial.

If these issues persist, chat with a veterinarian to create a plan to stop this behavior. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do cats choose who to sleep with? 

Cats choose who to sleep with based on their bond, comfort level, and individual temperament. Some may prefer the person they feel most connected to, while others seek warmth and affection. Cats also enjoy sleeping alone in their preferred spots. Respecting their choices and providing comfortable options helps strengthen the bond with your feline companion.

What does it mean if your cat sleeps on you? 

If your cat chooses to sleep on you, it shows trust, affection, and a strong bond. Your cat seeks warmth, security, and comfort by resting on your lap, chest, or head. It's their way of showing they feel safe and content in your presence.

Does a cat trust you if it sleeps next to you?

Yes, if a cat sleeps next to you, it is generally a sign of trust and comfort. By opting to be close during vulnerable moments like sleep, your cat indicates that they feel safe and secure beside you.