Why Does My Cat Sit On Me ? – Know The Reasons Here

Cats can be affectionate a lot. Sometimes, these feline beings will figure out at what time you come back from work and wait at the doorsteps for you, wanting scritches and pets. They will meow for snuggles, rub against your legs, or bump you with their heads. Several cats follow their pet owners everywhere, just like a tiny duckling while some cats sit on their laps. So, if you are wondering why does my cat sit on me it may be out of love!

Also, there is a social bonding element involved too. Some cats yearn for cuddles and snuggles, which is the reason you might come across two kitties lying on one another or sleeping together. That same bonding even translates to humans as well if you are thinking about “why does my cat sit on my lap?”

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Why Do Cats Sit on Laps?

So, you are all settled in on your couch and then, your cat jumps to snuggle into your lap out of nowhere. It is something that most pet parents have experienced. However, why does my cat sit on me? If you want to know why, find here all the reasons why do cats like laps!

Seek warmth

Cats have a high base temperature than us. The body temperature of a healthy cat falls between 100 degrees and 102 degrees. Cats probably sneak into warm spots purposely so that their little bodies do not need to work hard for keeping their body temperature up. Also, they could not find a better warm spot than your lap!

Look for security

Like us, kitties feel safer when they are closer to someone else. When you are a cat, you cannot get any closer to someone than sitting on their lap. Sitting next to their owner or on them helps cats to believe that they can scare aware any predators.

Want attention

Have you ever noticed that your kitty always sits on your lap when you are working on your laptop or reading something? If so, then it is not a coincidence. Your kitty wants all your attention. Just as humans do, cats crave for attention too. That’s why they always show up when you are focused the most. Unfortunately, when you pet them, you reinforce their behavior.

Naturally social

Like us, some kitties are friendlier as compared to others. Personality, temperature, or breed can highly influence how social and cuddly a kitty is. Your cats may be naturally inclined to people and they like to enjoy more bonding time!

Being affectionate

The common way for a cat to show their affection and love is snuggling up. This is true especially for people who have been at their workplaces all day and their cats have been alone all that time. So, remember, there are various other warm places but they selected you to sit on!

Ultimate pillow

Your lap is soft and warm, making it an ultimate pillow for a cat. Cats feel comfortable when they hop into your lap. Even though kitties are known to be comfortable in uncomfortable areas, your lap is a comfortable place for them to be on!

Show belongingness

Sitting on your lap is a way for cats to show that you belong to them. The sense of smell is something they rely upon a lot. Also, it is their way to communicate. Cats rub their faces on their owners to deposit oils and pheromones, marking ownership and showing comfort. By sitting on you, your kitty may be marking you as her belonging. Plus, your smell is familiar to them, it is secure and comfortable.

How Can You Get Your Cat to Sit on Your Lap?

While several cats crave affection and sit on your lap, others can appear aloof and be timid. Mostly, this depends upon individual personality variances. However, it could even happen due to a lack of socialization.

If your cat is reluctant but you always desired a cuddly lap-cat, there are some things that you can try. To get your cat to sit on your lap, it is significant that the surroundings are favorable to cuddly and relaxing times. Turn the television on to lower volumes and dim the lights. After that, we aim to make your kitty feel positive links with contact and touch. Pair them with a reward, like special tasty cat treats!

Watch this video to know how to teach your cat to sit on your lap!

Points to Remember for Making your Cat Sit on Your Lap:

Exchanges should be limited to planned, short sessions.
It is significant to read the body language of your cat and forecast when anxiety increases. For instance, stiffening of their legs or shoulders, tail twitching, dilation of their pupils. If you notice any of them, stop the session.
Food could be a very influential tool. This can act as a reward for taking that step onto your lap. Take some of their favorite cat treats, sit down on the couch, and keep tossing them to your cat.
When your kitty responds positively, place treats onto your couch. So, they need to get onto your sofa beside you.
Lastly, lure your cat onto your lap using a cat treat. It is significant to remember that you should not pet or hold your kitty. You should make them feel as though they have complete control.
Remember, you should have a lot of patience as this can take a significant amount of time. However, you should not give up.

You should repeat the above exercise daily and hopefully, your kitty will feel secure and safe over time to rest and curl up on your lap. Eventually, you will have a lap cat that you have always desired of!

Conclusion

So, these are some of the reasons if you are wondering “why does my cat sit on me?” However, if your cat does not sit on your lap, do not take it personally or be discouraged. Some cats are not lap cats, though they might change their preferences later on. Meanwhile, you can help them feel loved and warm with heated beds. If you still have doubts regarding “why do cats sit on laps”, post your queries in the comment section below!

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Luna Tran

My name is Luna and I am a great cat lover and a cat owner of three lovely cats. I have owned many cats till now and have dedicated many years to nurturing and caring cats. Through this blog, I am here to share my knowledge and experience about cats.