Why Do Cats Sleep On Your Neck And Face?
For many pet parents, a cat curling up on their face has become a standard part of their bedtime routine. Some felines may nestle under your chin and against your throat; others might lie half on the pillow and half on your head, twining their claws in your hair. The possible reasons for this behavior include seeking warmth, marking, and communicating unmet needs.
Craving warmth and comfort
Cats love to sleep in a warm spot, to the point that they'll follow a sunbeam around the house throughout the day. At night, when your body is under the covers, your head and neck are exposed. While it's a myth that humans release most of their body heat through their heads, it's still your feline's best option for snuggling up against you directly in this scenario. Meanwhile, your pillow is a soft, comfortable place for your pet to lie while snoozing.
Making their mark
Cats like to constantly mark their territory, with head butting and whisker stroking spreading their scent from glands on their heads, cheeks, paws, and other areas. You can not smell a cat's scent — but when your feline rubs their face against you, they are marking you as part of their territory. While sleeping next to your face, they may be making sure you carry the mark of their ownership as much as their enjoying together time.
Did you forget something?
If snuggling on or around your neck and face isn't your cat's routine nighttime behavior, you might be neglecting some of their routine care. Review your cat's day to see whether they might be trying to tell you something.
Perhaps you left their water bowl nearly empty or forget to leave out some midnight munchies. If you've put off cleaning the litter box, your feline might be letting you know conditions aren't acceptable for an impending potty stop.
Your cat might be standing on your face because it's the only way to get your attention. They can't text you a low food alert, after all. Sometimes taking up residence on your face is the only way a cat can get your attention, and sometimes the bed is the only place the cat can catch up with you if you're particularly busy.