Do cats like being under blankets?

Cats can have varying preferences when it comes to being under blankets. Some cats love burrowing under blankets and find it very comforting, while other cats may not like the feeling of being covered up. There are a few key factors that impact whether a cat enjoys blankets or not.

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Why Do Some Cats Like Blankets?

There are several reasons why a cat may enjoy being under a blanket:

Warmth – Cats are drawn to warm, cozy spaces to sleep and blankets trap body heat. This allows the cat to stay nice and warm.
Security – Covering up with a blanket can give cats a sense of security and isolation. This satisfies their natural instinct to find safe spaces.
Comfort – Blankets are soft, comfortable surfaces for cats to lie on. The warmth and texture can be very soothing.

Routine – If a cat is used to being under a blanket, it becomes part of their regular routine and source of comfort.
Darkness – Being under a blanket creates a dark, cave-like environment. Since cats are crepuscular, they prefer dim spaces.
Attention – Some cats realize their owners pay more attention to them when they’re curled up under blankets.

Ultimately, blankets appeal to a cat’s desires for comfort, security, warmth and routine. The opportunity to burrow and hide is very biologically and psychologically satisfying for them.

Why Some Cats Dislike Blankets

While many cats enjoy being under blankets, others dislike the experience. Here are some reasons why:

Overheating – Since cats already have warm fur coats, being under a blanket may cause them to get uncomfortably hot.

Claustrophobia – Some cats may feel too confined or trapped under the weight of a blanket.
Restricted movement – Blankets can limit a cat’s ability to move freely and easily.
Lack of access – Cat’s want easy access to their territory, and blankets form barriers.

No escape – With blankets covering them up, cats can feel like there is no quick escape route.
Lack of control – Blankets placed on them unexpectedly or forcefully can make a cat feel out of control.

Cats that dislike enclosed spaces or have a high need to roam may be averse to being under blankets. They want freedom to move easily.

Signs Your Cat Likes Being Under Blankets

How can you tell if your cat enjoys blankets or not? Look for these signs:

Kneading and circling – Before settling in, cats often knead blankets and circle to make the space cozy.
Curling up – If your cat readily curls up under a blanket, it’s a clear sign they like this environment.

Purring – Loud purring once under the blanket signals contentment.
Sleepiness – Yawning, heavy eyes, and dozing off says your cat is relaxed and comfy.
Grooming – Grooming their coat under the blanket means your cat feels safe and peaceful.

Playfulness – Playing under the covers suggests your cat has positive associations.
Returning habitually – A sure sign your cat likes blankets is if they repeatedly return to hide under them.

You can experiment by placing blankets out and seeing if your cat chooses to curl up underneath. The more pleased body language they display, the more they probably enjoy the experience.

Signs Your Cat Dislikes Being Under Blankets

Cats make it obvious when they are not enjoying blankets. Watch for these cues:

Avoidance – If your cat avoids going under blankets, it’s clear they do not like the sensation.
Vocalizations – Unhappy meows, growls or cries indicate discomfort with being covered.

Agitation – Your cat may seem restless, pace and be unable to settle under the blanket.
Panic – Wide eyes, frantic clawing, and abrupt bolting away points to fear of confinement.
Aggression – Snapping, swatting, biting suggests anger at being under the blanket.

Excessive grooming – Licking themselves repeatedly may signal stress about the enclosing blanket.

Some cats even develop aversions to blankets after negative experiences, such as getting tangled up or unintentionally trapped under one.

Tips for Blanket Training Your Cat

If your cat is afraid of blankets or resists being under them, you can use positive reinforcement to help them become more comfortable:

Start small – Begin with a light towel and work up to heavier blankets gradually as your cat acclimates.
Positive associations – Pair blankets with treats, catnip and playtime so your cat relates it to good things.
Routine – Incorporate blanket time into their daily routine at consistent times to build acceptance.

No force – Let your cat approach the blanket themselves, don’t ever force or trap them under it.
Patience – It may take multiple sessions over weeks/months for your cat to fully enjoy blankets.
Remove when needed – If your cat seems distressed, promptly lift the blanket so they don’t feel trapped.

With time, patience and consistency, you can make blankets a positive part of your cat’s life. But always respect their preferences if they just don’t enjoy being covered.

Changing Blanket Preferences

Your cat’s desire to be under blankets may change over time. Here are some reasons why:

Age – Older cats tend to feel the cold more, making blankets appealing for warmth.

Weight changes – Thinner cats may desire blankets for insulation, while obese cats risk overheating.
Joints issues – Cats with arthritis often like the cushioning and heat of blankets.
Environment – Temperature fluctuations, drafts, noise can all prompt your cat to take cover.

New home – A new environment may mean your cat wants security of a blanket while acclimating.
Stressors – Changes in home or family members can make a cat want comfort of blankets.

Look for seasonality as well. In colder months, your cat is more apt to seek out blankets for warmth and protection from chillier conditions.

It’s important to be adaptable to a cat’s evolving blanket preferences so they can access this refuge or avoid it as needed.

Choosing Blankets for Your Cat

If your cat enjoys blankets, you’ll want to select ones well suited for their needs. Here are key factors to consider:

Material – Use soft, breathable natural fabrics like fleece, flannel or wool. Avoid stiff, irritating synthetics.

Warmth – Choose blankets providing the right amount of warmth for the climate without overheating.
Size – Pick blankets spacious enough for your cat to move around and burrow into.
Durability – Since cats will scratch and knead, select a strong, damage-resistant blanket.

Washing – Machine washable blankets allow easy cleaning of cat hair and odor.
Texture – Blankets with extra fluff and pile height add insulation and comfort.

Plush, faux fur blankets provide an inviting, cozy nest for your cat to snuggle under. You can even find heated pet blankets to add soothing warmth in the colder months.

Creating a Cat Cave or Tent

In addition to blankets, you can create enclosed cat caves or tents to provide your cat with a safe, comforting space.

Here are tips for making caves and tents:

Use boxes, fabric, household items to build covered structures.

Add familiar soft bedding and their own blanket inside for security.
Adjust the size and openings to give them cozy but roomy space.
Place the space in a quiet, low traffic area of your home.

Allow free access so they can use it whenever they please.
Spray some synthetic feline pheromones inside to ease stress.

You can even purchase ready-made cat tents, pods and tepees online or from pet stores. Offer treats and toys inside to motivate their use.

Safety Considerations

While most cats enjoy blanketing, you should take some safety precautions:

Supervise use – Don’t leave cats unattended under blankets for long periods.
Limit loose blankets – Restrict access to loose blankets that could fall and entangle them.

Avoid overheating – Watch for signs of overheating like panting and whisk your cat out.
Remove hazards – Don’t let cats burrow under blankets covering cords or other dangers.
Give escape routes – Leave openings so cats don’t feel trapped under tent-like blankets.

Proper supervision and common sense make it easy to allow cats the pleasures of blanketing safely!

Conclusion

Cats can develop distinct preferences when it comes to being under blankets. Many adore burrowing beneath blankets or into tent-like structures, which appeals to their natural instincts. The darkness, warmth, coziness and security blankets provide are highly attractive to felines seeking comfort and solitude.

However, cats dislike having mobility restricted or feeling trapped. Some may experience claustrophobia or overheating under blankets. It’s important to gauge your individual cat’s reactions and adjust blanketing based on their unique temperament and changing needs. With proper precautions and patience, most felines can come to enjoy the simple pleasure of napping under the covers.