by Nomi Berger
 
If your cat’s crazy about cuddling, you’re undoubtedly used to waking up and finding a warm, furry body stretched out along your back or chest.
 
Have you ever wondered WHY you’re so often your kitty’s favorite spot to snuggle while she purr, purr, purrs herself sweetly to sleep?
 
If so, paw-lease consider the following:
 
Cats crave warmth. Fond of catching the sun’s first morning rays, whether it’s on a window ledge or on the floor, cats will soak up those rays’ soothing warmth like human sun worshippers at the beach! But once the sun goes down, removing its light and its heat, cats quickly transfer their focus to YOU for the warmth they crave by curling up in your lap on the couch or burrowing with you under the covers in bed.
 
People are particularly comfortable. Because cats can sleep for 15 hours or more every day, they’re constantly searching for plush and peaceful places to settle. Sometimes it’s a baby soft blanket or a basket of fresh laundry, a cozy cat bed or an especially plump pillow. But if you happen to be stretched out on the sofa or lying leisurely on a lounge, your belly will quickly surpass those other spots, becoming, in short order, your cat’s idea of utter bliss.
 
Cats adore attention. If you’re away during the day and return home in the evening, don’t be surprised if you find your cat waiting eagerly by the door to greet you. Second only to being fed is being your shadow, as she follows after you while coyly treating you to a chorus of meows and a series of head butts in the hopes that you’ll reciprocate with a shower of kisses and plenty of pets.  
 
Cats savor safety. Much like people, cats seek out places of safety and security. And so, when your cat’s in search of somewhere to sleep, as warm and supple as it is familiar and comfortable, what more reassuring refuge could she find than your very own body? You’re figuratively her shield against all predators – fearsome or fictional -- allowing her to drift off to dreamland without a care in her kitty cat world.
 
Your sounds and smells can soothe her. When your cat sleeps on top of you, she may find the steady beating of your heart coupled with the rise and fall of your chest as you inhale and exhale especially reassuring and soothing, thereby lulling her into gentle slumber. She may also find your body’s distinctive scent particularly pleasant because she associates it with the care, companionship and safety you provide her, relaxing her own body more deeply and completely.
 
In short, cats are territorial by nature and often “mark” their favorite people as their own. The fact that your kitty sleeps on top of you is indicative of her absolute trust in you and that she considers your body the sweetest, safest spot to be.

by Nomi Berger

While one of the most enjoyable experiences of working from home throughout the COVID-19 pandemic may be the extra time you’ve spent with your cats, the downside may be their separation anxiety when you return to work. This is particularly true for cats adopted during the pandemic because they’ve had less time to accustom themselves to their new homes and new routines.

Animal behaviorists are, therefore, encouraging you to start preparing your feline friends NOW to help them adjust to yet another “new normal.”

Set and keep to a consistent schedule: Cats are creatures of habit and are most comfortable with a fixed routine. If you’ve been free-feeding yours during the day, break that habit immediately. Implement or return to regularly scheduled meal times to reinforce their sense of safety and ritual.

Practice leaving them on their own: Leave them alone for brief periods of time by taking a short walk or going for a drive. As their stress levels decrease, gradually increase the amount of time you’re gone until they’ve adjusted completely and appear unperturbed by your absence. On the other hand, if they become excited or anxious when you show signs of leaving – whether it’s putting on your shoes or picking up your keys -- desensitize them by doing this and NOT leaving the house. Repeat the process until they no longer react. But most importantly, resist the temptation to draw out your “good-byes” when you leave and your “hellos” when you return. Being as intuitive as they are, they will automatically react to your tone of voice, body language and overall energy – both positive and negative. Here, calmness is key.

Create a tranquil environment: To reduce their stress levels, consider the benefits of “white noise” such as the TV, classical music or a sound machine. Diffusers with pet-appeasing pheromones can also be used to provide them with a greater sense of security. Leave out a well-worn shirt or a cozy blanket with your scent on it for them to curl up on or cuddle.

Keep them stimulated and entertained: Establish a daily play schedule for meaningful interaction with your cats.  Have them chase after the laser’s red dot or engage them with various wand toys – activities that help build their confidence and strengthen their bond with you. And be generous with those high-value treats! Ensure that at least one window has a cat tree, perch or bed in front of it to allow them to look out at the world. Then, as you head out the door, put down a puzzle toy for them to work on and hold their attention indefinitely.

If, despite all of these preparations, you believe your cats may be suffering from stress while you’re gone, the most effective way to determine the extent of it is through the use of a home monitor. Capturing their behaviors on tape allows you to work on modifying those behaviors and helps ensure that your cats’ “home alone” environment is as pleasant as paws-ible.