Wee Scottish Diaries by Cate

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Cat’s Favourite Sleeping Positions

Dear Diary,

I have to admit, I’m a sleep stalker. A sleeping cat just melts my heart.

So no wonder that my phone is full of Jamie in various sleeping positions.

It’s a tricky business though.

Cause he can sense me approaching every single time. No matter how hard I try.

The moment I get my phone out, he opens his eyes wide with a grunting noise. As if he’s saying - gosh, you again. Can you please just not …

Nevertheless, over the years I’ve managed to get a decent collection of Jamie in his sleep.

So here it comes, get ready to be enchanted.

The Loaf

That is a very popular position cats take throughout the day. Looks a bit like a loaf of bread, hence the name.

Usually, they’ll have their front paws curled underneath their body with their head up.

I’d say this is more of a resting or snoozing position rather than one for deep sleep. With one eye and ear, they’re still observing their surroundings, ready to take action if needed.

The Ball

His and a lot of cats’ favourites. That’s how Jamie sleeps through the night in bed next to me. Curled up to a ball or crescent, nose to tail.

It helps them retain the body heat and to protect their vital organs. And allows them to be as small as possible to stay unnoticed.

The Paws-Over-Eyes

This is my absolute favourite! It’s by far the cutest. A bit like hiding from reality. Please do not disturb.

Or maybe the lights are just too bright and the nose a little too cold hence the covering.

The Belly-Up

This position shows ultimate trust! Your cat couldn’t be more comfortable. Very hard to resist giving them a belly rub.

They’re exposing their bellies wide open to the world, which makes them the ideal target for predators. So, they only do this if they really feel safe.

The Sideways

Lying on their side, quite often in combination with the legs stretched out wide. This is a good resting position to jump-start if needed.

As with the belly-up position, it makes them vulnerable as their organs are exposed.

The One-Armed Superman

I’ve only seen Jamie doing this comical position a couple of times. I’d call it an extended loaf position or stretching.

Not sure how this is comfortable but cats are weirdos so no questions asked.


Cats are also keen sunbathers. If there is a sunny spot in my flat, Jamie will find it.