Sleeping with Cats: The Reality vs. The Dream
Being able to cuddle up in bed with a cat is a dream for many people who don't yet have one. It sounds like the perfect cozy way to end the day.
However, the reality is often quite different. Sleeping with a cat can leave you feeling sore all over because it's hard to move freely during the night. Many people find themselves stuck in strange positions, either unable to turn comfortably or staying still all night for fear of accidentally pressing on their feline friend.
Tips for Helping Your Cat Settle In
There are some handy tricks to help your cat "settle down" comfortably. One effective method is using a heat source. For example, you can place a stick-on heat pack inside the blanket. When your cat notices the warmth, it will naturally be drawn to that spot to sleep.
However, this trick is only likely to work when the weather is cold enough to make the warmth noticeable and appealing to your cat.
Creating a Cozy Cat Nest
Another effective method is to create a cat nest area that is slightly raised around the edges, with a lower center. This can be an actual cat bed your cat prefers, or a space enclosed by blankets or similar items.
The key is to make the edges just a little higher so the cat feels a comforting sense of being sheltered, but not so high that it feels separated from its owner. This cat nest is usually placed near a spot where the cat already enjoys snuggling close to its owner while sleeping, which makes the setup more likely to succeed.
Cat Bedside Sleeping Solutions
Another commonly used option is the "bedside cat bed," which is usually made by modifying a larger nightstand or a taller chair. Some people even purchase special bedside cribs designed for babies. When a cat really wants to sleep with its owner but the owner doesn't want to be disturbed by the cat turning over, finding a place where the cat can sleep close by without being in the way is an excellent solution.
For cats that are difficult to convince, adding some positive reinforcement training can increase the chances of success. The best location for the bed is right next to the main bed, without any gaps in between. Whether it is near the owner's head, torso, legs, or feet depends on the cat's original preference.
