The Cat Sleeping Position That Means 'Do Not Disturb'

What does it mean when a cat sleeps in an unusual position? You may have noticed that your cat sleeps mostly during the day and has zoomies that can wake you up in the middle of the night. Since you're usually not sleeping during the day, you may witness the various sleeping positions of your cat, like having their paws over their eyes, before your own bedtime. While this could be for many different reasons, completely burying their face can mean something specific: Do not disturb.

This cat sleeping position has a few loving names for it, including the "Hiding Face Henry." When a cat is in a deep sleep, they may cover their face subconsciously. This sign warns others not to disturb them while they are comfortable. In addition, a cat's paws may act as a "sleep mask" that shields their eyes, protecting them from harsh light or irritants in the air. While it may not seem like it, this position also helps the cat drown out noise for a better slumber.

Cats sleep a lot, averaging about 12 to 20 hours of sleep a day. As they sleep, they will often swap into various positions, including the above "do not disturb" sleeping position. However, this position can also mean something else — that your cat is feeling safe and comfortable in the home with you. Your cat may be indicating that they're so comfy, they can easily drift into deeper sleep — something feral or stray cats may not be able to do. 

Sleeping carefree with a single paw over the face is a signal that your cat feels they're living the good life — especially if they're snoozing away indoors. Indoor cats receive regular meals and sleep on soft comfy surfaces to attain such a deep sleep. Indoor cats also typically have a lower incidence of injuries and have longer lifespans — giving them more time to blissfully snooze away. If you're looking for a way to make your cat feel even more pampered, consider adding a soft blanket or calming cat bed that can help them feel more at peace. The next time you see your cat in this position, think twice about poking or bothering your sleepy baby — but remember, it means they're feeling loved.