What is what does it mean when a cat sleeps above your head?

Cats sleeping above your head, while seemingly odd, can have several interpretations rooted in feline behavior:

  • Warmth and Comfort: Your head radiates heat, especially during sleep. Cats seek out warm spots for comfort and relaxation, so your head becomes an appealing heat source.

  • Security and Trust: This behavior often signifies a deep bond and feeling of safety with you. Cats are vulnerable when they sleep, so choosing to rest in such close proximity indicates they trust you to protect them.

  • Scent Marking: Cats have scent glands on their heads and faces. Sleeping near or on your head allows them to subtly mark you as part of their territory by depositing their scent.

  • Dominance (Less Common): While less likely, in some multi-cat households, sleeping higher up can be a subtle display of dominance, as higher positions offer a better vantage point. However, this is less common when the cat sleeps specifically on you.

  • Seeking Attention: Your cat may have learned that sleeping near your head gets them attention, either because you pet them or because you are likely to wake up and interact with them.