A cat owner has revealed the real reason why many felines favor sleeping curled up, a position also known as 'shrimping'. It is not simply because it is comfortable.
The Defensive Reason Behind Curling Up
If your cat sleeps curled up, you might think it is just for comfort. However, according to one pet owner, whose cats are named Winston and Spooky, there is a different reason. Winston and Spooky's antics regularly provide viral content on social media, with several videos each amassing 20 million views. Their owner, who calls himself the pair's 'human', shared his thoughts on TikTok about kitty slumber.
Also known as 'shrimping' or the 'cat shrimp', curling into a ball is a common sleeping position for cats. 'This is a common defensive position,' the owner explained. 'They look super cute, but it is also a natural position that protects their stomach and vital organs.'
PetsMD supports this theory, stating online: 'When cats sleep curled into a ball, they are usually trying to conserve body heat and protect vulnerable areas of their body. Curling into a ball also helps protect the vital organs in the abdomen by surrounding them with stronger muscle and bone structures. Cats that frequently sleep in this position may enjoy donut-shaped beds or round bolster beds that support their natural curling behavior.'
Other Common Sleeping Positions
The owner of Winston and Spooky highlighted four other common sleeping positions.
Belly Up
'With their stomach exposed in this position, cats are highly vulnerable,' they said. 'It is a huge sign of trust, and it means they feel safe in their environment.'
Hiding Face
Felines often hide their faces with their paws as a self-soothing behavior, the owner noted. 'They are either trying to shut out the light or warm themselves up – both of which would help them get better sleep.'
Loaf
So called because tucking all four paws and their tail underneath their body makes them resemble a compact loaf of bread, the loaf means the cat is content but also still alert. 'They are ready to move if needed, but having a good time for now,' the person continued.
One Eye Open
It might look peculiar, but if your cat sleeps with an eye open, it is nothing to worry about. As Winston and Spooky's owner concluded: 'When they have one eye open or their ears are twitching, they are resting lightly and are staying alert for any movement or noises.'
PetsMD also pointed out: 'Cats sleep in different positions to regulate body temperature, stay alert to their surroundings, seek comfort, and strengthen social bonds. Much of a cat's sleeping behavior is influenced by social tendencies. Despite their reputation for independence, cats can form strong bonds with pet parents and other pets. Cats also seek warmth while sleeping, which is why they often sleep on or near people. Some pet parents even provide heated cat beds to satisfy this preference. Other cat sleeping positions reflect their wild ancestry. Cats are both predators and prey animals, so they naturally remain aware of their surroundings and protect vulnerable areas of their bodies whenever possible.'
