Welcome to our guide on cat safety! Today, we address a common concern: will my cat suffocate under the covers? Let’s explore this topic and put your worries to rest.
Will My Cat Suffocate Under The Covers?
Introducing a new cat into your home can be an anxiety-inducing experience, especially if you’re not familiar with cats or haven’t interacted with them in a while. It’s natural to want everything to be perfect for your new feline companion, including providing them with a cozy bed, special food, water bowls, plenty of toys, and a stylish cat tree. However, what you may not realize is that cats can make themselves at home in any environment.
Witnessing your kitty burrowing under the covers of your bed or snuggling into a nearby throw blanket is undeniably adorable. But if you’re new to cats, you may have concerns when you see them hidden beneath the covers. You may worry about disturbing their sleep or wonder if it’s dangerous for them to be concealed. Can a cat suffocate under blankets? Fortunately, the answer is no. As long as the blankets are made from breathable materials, your cat will not suffocate under them.
To put your mind at ease, let’s delve into more information about cats and their affinity for blankets, so you can feel more confident when you spot your little angel all bundled up in your bed.
Is it OK for cats to sleep under the covers?
Absolutely! It is perfectly fine for your cat to sleep under the covers.
Amidst their adorable fluffiness, it’s easy to forget that cats are highly skilled predators that have evolved over thousands of years. They were first domesticated around 12,000 years ago! Along with their predatory instincts, cats possess strong instincts for self-preservation.
Sometimes, this self-preserving behavior may be mistaken for aloofness or unfriendliness, but in reality, cats are just exceptionally good at looking out for themselves. The good news is that these instincts also apply to the regulation of their breathing while they sleep.
A cat will only choose to sleep under a blanket if it feels comfortable doing so. If they start to feel uncomfortable due to low oxygen levels or any other reason, they will naturally come out from under the covers.
Can cats still breathe under blankets?
Cuddling with your cat is truly a wonderful experience. They bring warmth, softness, and comfort into our lives. But when it’s bedtime, you might wonder if it’s safe for your cat to sleep with you under the covers. How do cats manage to breathe when they are under blankets?
Cats are able to breathe under blankets because their chest has the flexibility to move freely. Additionally, small gaps of air naturally enter beneath the blanket, providing cats with enough oxygen to breathe comfortably. However, it’s important to note that excessively heavy blankets may restrict their ability to breathe freely. It is generally safer to use lighter blankets.
To ensure your cat’s safety while they are under the covers, it’s essential to monitor them closely during their initial attempts. If they can move around easily, show no signs of distress, and can find their way out on their own, it is likely safe to let them continue snuggling under the blankets.
In the following sections, we will provide you with important information about allowing your cats under the blankets in safe conditions, as well as insights into why your cat may choose to cuddle under your favorite blanket.
Why don’t cats lay under blankets?
Cats have always had a knack for intriguing us with their peculiar behaviors. In this case, it’s likely that their innate nocturnal nature plays a role. Cats tend to sleep a great deal during the day, reserving their energy for their nighttime hunting instincts. So, when the sun sets, you may witness your cat racing around the house or engaging in playful stalking behaviors.
Due to their heightened alertness during these active periods, your cat may choose not to get under the covers and potentially dull their senses. Even though they may be taking a snooze, they remain attentive to their surroundings, ever ready to pounce on any perceived prey or engage in playful interactions.
Can cats sleep under the sheets?
If your cat chooses to sleep under the covers with you, consider it a special feline compliment. Cats, especially kittens, have a natural inclination to seek warmth and coziness. Some cats with thinner fur or fewer layers may cuddle under the covers to fulfill their need for warmth. On the other hand, breeds like Sphynx cats, with their unique genetic makeup and slightly higher body temperature, may prefer to sleep on top of the covers.
It’s crucial to prioritize your cat’s safety and well-being when they choose to snuggle under the covers. Proper ventilation is essential to ensure they have a fresh air supply and can breathe comfortably. Additionally, monitoring their comfort levels and ensuring they can move freely are important considerations.
While kittens, cats with lighter coats, and senior cats are often more inclined to seek the warmth of covers, it’s important to strike a balance and create a safe sleeping environment for your furry friend.