Cats are very adaptable creatures, and when it comes to sleeping they can be found contorted into a variety of cute positions. From the classic “loaf” to the “long stretch”, cats seem to have an innate knowledge of just how to get comfortable. No matter which sleeping pose they choose, cats never cease to amaze us with their flexibility and grace. Now, let’s see just how many of a cat’s sleeping positions your feline friend has actually mastered!

1. The Loaf – This is the most classic of all cat sleeping positions and the one you are likely to see your kitty in most often. It looks like a loaf of bread, with their paws tucked underneath them and their head resting on top, giving it an even more loaf-like appearance. Cats are most comfortable sleeping in this position because it makes them feel warm and secure.

2. The Sphinx – This is another common sleeping position many cats adopt, where a cat sleeps belly down with their back legs out to the sides and front paws stretched out in front of them. Their heads are typically sitting upright and tall. Cats tend to sleep in this position when they are feeling very relaxed and content.

3. The Burrito – Also known as the ‘taco’ or ‘wrap’, this is a cute sleeping position often adopted by a cat who likes to feel snug and secure while catching some ZZZs. They curl up into a tight ball with their tails wrapped around their heads, looking almost like a burrito! This is usually done for warmth or comfort, so small spaces like an enclosed cat bed or a box is preferred.

4. The Noodle – Similar to the ‘loaf’ pose, but not quite as curled up, this one looks like your kitty has melted into puddle of relaxation. Their front legs are stretched out in front of them while their back legs remain tucked underneath their body, giving it a noodle-like appearance. This is usually done when cats need to catch up on some serious rest!

5. The Curl Up – A cuddly version of the ‘loaf’, this position sees cats curl up into a tight little ball with their heads tucked up between their paws and tails curled around them. It’s an even more comfortable position to conserve heat and feel secure while a cat is sleeping.

6. The Tummy Rub – Cats sometimes like to stretch out on their backs (with their belly exposed) and take a nap. This position is usually done when they’re feeling quite relaxed and comfortable, as it gives them the perfect opportunity to soak up some sun while napping away.

7. The Kneading – This is an adorable sleeping position where cats knead their paws into whatever surface they’re resting on (like your lap or blanket). It might not look like much of a sleep pose, but cats actually find this extremely soothing and sometimes even drift off in the middle of their kneading session.

8. The Hangover – This one has been documented many times, especially by those who own playful kittens! Cats will lay flat out on their backs with all four legs stretched out behind them, giving the appearance of having a little ‘hangover’. This is usually done after some rough playtime and provides cats with an opportunity to rest their tired bodies.

9. The Chair – This one looks quite comical when seen in person, as cats will often position themselves as if they are sitting in an invisible chair or throne! Once in a great while cats fall asleep at a moment’s notice with their back paws stretched while in a human-like seated positions and their backs propped back against a wall or couch.

10. The Spider – With all four paws stretched out wide either on their backs or bellies, cats usually take on this position when they’re completely exhausted and may need immediate rest.

11. The Superhero – This is a unique sleeping position you’re likely to see quite often with kittens and young cats, where they lay flat on their backs with their legs spread wide and arms stretched out like a superhero! It’s thought that cats sleep in this pose because it mimics the safety of being held by a human, which offers them comfort in unfamiliar places.

12. The Loopy Leg – A variation of the ‘loaf’ position, but instead of keeping all four legs tucked in tightly beneath their body, cats will often stretch one of their legs out in a loopy fashion. It’s believed that this is done to keep cool while they sleep as it helps reduce contact with the warm surface beneath them.

13. The Side Sleeper – One of the more common sleeping positions among cats, side-sleeping is usually done when cats are feeling relaxed and at ease. Here, kitties lay on their sides with all four legs stretched out. It’s also thought that this position allows them to maintain better balance should they need to get up quickly.

14. The Long Stretch – Often seen when a cat is enjoying the morning sun in front of a window or sliding glass door with their front paws extended out from the head and back legs stretching out with their tail behind them.

15. The Hug – Typically involves two cats where they lie together with their paws either wrapped around one another or over there body.

16. The 69 or Yin Yang – This is another position which takes two kitties. Basically they lay on their sides facing each other but with heads to tails.

So, how does your cat sleep? Which of the 16 most common cat sleeping positions is your cat’s favorite? Next time you catch your cat is sleeping, why not see if you can spot what position they’re in? Take photos of all their sleeping positions and share them with your friends or family. We’re sure they’ll have a good laugh!