Cats love heights, so much so that there is an exclusive syndrome for it, known as "the parachuting cat syndrome" which refers to those cats that climb to very high places and, unfortunately, fall into the void, which can cause serious he alth problems, such as serious injuries.
But not all heights are dangerous, in fact, it is very positive that a cat rests on elevated surfaces. Does yours do it too? Do you wonder why? In this article on our site we will explain why cats like to sleep in high places, showing you 5 main reasons.
Why do cats sleep in high places? - 5 REASONS
If we analyze the behavior of felines, we quickly observe that they spend more time resting and moving around than to other behaviors typical of the species. It's the perfect combination that explains why cats climb trees, as well as other elevated surfaces.
However, what benefits does it bring them? Why do they like it so much? Next we will talk about the reasons why cats sleep in high places:
1. They are entertained
Domestic cats are especially curious animals, so much so that they don't hesitate to sniff when we bring something new or when something surprises them. However, we must remember that stimulation within the home can be very limited for these pets, which is why cats find heights an excellent means to see what is happening around them
Precisely for this reason it is so necessary to offer them comfortable and safe structures where they can rest and, at the same time, observe. We can encourage this behavior by placing a scratching tree near the windows, in this way the feline will be able to see what is happening on the street without risk.
two. They feel safer
There are many factors that can cause your cat to " feel in danger". These are very sensitive animals that, on occasion, may consider certain changes as a threat. An example might be the introduction of a dog into the home. This can generate behaviors related to fear or aggressiveness, but to avoid this, cats will prefer to climb certain structures, where they will feel safer.
Thus, and in general, cats will look for high places to take refuge and recover their well-being when they feel threatened, insecure or frightened.
3. They rest much better
Cats spend most of the day resting and we could say that it is their favorite activity. In fact, cats come to have various " favorite zones" within the home to rest. However, they will not always be sleeping soundly. In most cases they are resting, without actually resting.
High places often become those favorite areas that we have mentioned, as they offer the cat the possibility of isolating itself from household traffic and, therefore, rest much better.
4. They regulate heat better
If you have a cat you will know that these animals are not great lovers of cold. If we ever see them on the ground, it will be in summer, when it is really hot, or on a carpet. During the coldest times of the year, felines look for warm places where they can snuggle up and, the farther from the ground they are, the better.
It is very likely that we will observe them inside a closet or in the nest box of a scratching tree if we have one. In addition, the heating of the houses is usually located in the part close to the ground, which inevitably causes the heat to rise upwards, keeping certain spaces warm. That gives them more comfort.
5. They manage stress and anxiety better
Although domestic cats may appear to be very calm animals, the truth is that they are very sensitive to change. It is easy for a cat to experience anxiety and stress for various reasons and seek refuge in certain spaces. Once again, heights provide the cat with the necessary insulation to obtain calm, tranquility and a restful sleep
Also, they are often an excellent haven for those cats who are afraid of storms, fireworks or the dryer.
