Why does my cat sleep on my bed?

Sometimes there's nothing more comforting than a warm, soft cat snuggling up to you at night. It may surprise you, but many fuzzy felines love cozying up to their owners on their beds. (Cats aren't nearly as solitary as many people think!) But why does your cat sleep on your bed? Is it out of instinct, love or a little of both?

You're Warm at Night

Cats sleep on beds for a variety of reasons, including for a little extra body heat. Cats are drawn to warm places, and you're a great source of heat during the long night. If your cat starts on your chest and moves to your feet later, it may be because your core is too warm. While she may want that warmth when you first snuggle down, she'll likely move away from your core later when she gets a little too warm.

Sleeping Near You Is Comforting

Cats also get emotional comfort from being near you. Bonded cats often sleep near each other in the wild, so sleeping close to you can indicate your kitty feels a tight bond. This can provide comfort that helps cats sleep.

Co-Sleeping Provides More Security

Just like your kitty rubs against you with his head or tail to "mark" you as his own, sleeping next to you can accomplish something similar. If you have a multi-cat home, he may also seek security from other cats' late-night sneak attacks.

In fact, sleeping next to you can provide security whether you have one cat or several. Sleeping is a vulnerable time in the wild, so your furry feline may instinctually seek to snuggle up close because he trusts you.

Even where your cat sleeps on the bed can be about security. Some sleep above the covers so they can react quickly if needed. Others may hide under the covers for security instead. It really depends on the kitty's personality.

But sleeping next to you isn't just about getting protection. He may also want to protect and alert you if something's amiss since cats are lighter sleepers.

Comfy Alternatives to Your Bed

Sometimes having a cat sleep on your bed isn't ideal, whether it's because you have allergies, are a light sleeper or another reason. By giving your furry friend a cozy, comfy alternative, you can still keep her near — just not right on top of you. Cat beds also make great daytime napping sites to give that same secure feeling when she's not snuggled up beside you.

We've got a few great alternatives to your bed that your furry friend will love.

First, consider heated cat beds. If your little lion is snuggling up to you at night for warmth, then she will appreciate having a warm bed of her own. The K&H Thermo-Kitty Heated Cat Bed has six-inch tall foam walls that help your cat feel more secure. And it comes in two sizes. For extra privacy, try the K&H Thermo-Kitty Deluxe Hooded Bed, which has a hood that zips on and off. The interior is a stylish leopard print.

Another option that provides your cat with lots of privacy is the K&H Thermo-Mod Dream Pod. The oval-shaped bed with a generous entrance fits cats of all sizes. It has a rugged nylon exterior and soft interior and, with its modern design, fits easily into your home's aesthetic.

For a more portable option, the comfy K&H Thermo-Kitty Mat can be placed anywhere. You can even put the heated cat mat on your bed if you still want your cat there, just not sleeping on top of you.

Of course, you may also want to provide beds that aren't heated, so your furry friend has lots of options. The K&H Indoor Pet House has plush padding inside and is shaped like a tiny home. Cats that love to hide might prefer the K&H Thermo Pet Cave (Heated & Unheated), which has a super soft fleece interior. Plus, it comes with an attached plush toy to keep her entertained!

If you're a little creative, you'll love the K&H Knitted Pet Bed. Its soft, flexible material can be transformed into different shapes depending on your cat's preference.

When your cat sleeps on your bed at night and snuggles up next to you, it's a sign of bonding and affection. You're a warm bundle of security. You can give your cat even more opportunities for secure sleeping with warm cat beds that mimic that safe feeling.