It’s no secret that cats are territorial creatures, and your bed is no exception. Sharing a sleeping space with you is a sign of trust, but it also reinforces their claim over the area.
By sleeping at the foot of the bed, they are marking their scent and signaling to other animals (including any other pets in the home) that they have a special bond with you.
If you notice your cat frequently changing sleeping spots, they may be experimenting with different positions to find the most comfortable and secure option. Some cats might curl up in the litter box or other odd places when stressed, but sleeping at your feet is usually a sign of relaxation and trust.
Unlike a vulnerable position (like sleeping belly-up in the middle of the bed), sleeping at your feet offers a combination of safety, comfort and territory marking.
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
