Why Does My Cat Sleep in the Doorway? (11 Possible Reasons)

You probably seen your cat lay down in the doorway at some point and wondered why they do this. After all, it doesn’t seem like the most comfortable position. There are actually a few reasons for why cats enjoy sleeping in doorways.

But most importantly, doorways offer cats a sense of security. Cats feel vulnerable when they are out in the open, so doorways provide them with a sense of safety since they can see what’s coming and quickly retreat if necessary. In addition, the doorway provides a bit of a barrier from the rest of the world, which can be overwhelming for some cats.

So the next time you see your cat sleeping in the doorway, don’t disturb them. They are just trying to get a good night’s sleep in a position that makes them feel safe and secure.

Why Does My Cat Sleep In The Doorway? 11 Possible Reasons

One day I found my cat Snickers sleeping in the strangest position—half in and half out of my bedroom doorway. It looked uncomfortable, and I wondered why she would choose to sleep there.

After few study and talked to an expert, I discovered that there are many reasons cats enjoy sleeping in doorways (or any type of threshold). Here are 11 possible explanations.

1. Doorways Provide a Sense of Security

Cats feel vulnerable when they are out in the open, so doorways provide them with a sense of safety since they can see what’s coming and quickly retreat if necessary. In addition, the doorway provides a bit of a barrier from the rest of the world, which can be overwhelming for some cats.

A study shown that two-thirds of cats prefer to sleep in a partially enclosed space, such as a box or basket with one side open. So it’s not surprising that many cats would choose to sleep in a doorway, which offers both an open and closed space.

2. Doorways Offer Opportunities to People Watch

Cats are curious creatures, and they love to watch the world go by. Doorways provide the perfect vantage point for cats to do some people watching. And since doorways are usually located in high-traffic areas of the home, such as the living room or kitchen, there’s always something interesting happening for your cat to watch.

My cat Snickers loves to sleep in the doorway of my bedroom because she can see the activity in the hallway and living room. She’s even been known to lay down in front of the door when someone is trying to come in or out!

3. Doorways are Warm and Cozy

Doorways often receive a lot of sunlight, making them warm and cozy spot for cats to take a nap. And on cold winter days, the heat emanating from a nearby radiator can make a doorway even more enticing for a cat seeking a warm spot to curl up in.

I don’t know what it is about doorways, but my cats always seem to find the sunniest spot in the house and make themselves at home.

4. Doorways Provide a Sense of Territory

Cats are very territorial creatures, and they like to claim their space. When a cat sleeps in a doorway, they are claiming that space as their own. This is especially true if the cat sleeps in a doorway that leads to an outside area, such as a patio door or front door.

My cat Snickers loves to sleep in the doorway that leads to our backyard. I think she enjoys the fresh air and being able to see what’s going on in the yard. And when we have company over, she likes to lay in the doorway and keep an eye on things.

5. Doorways Remind Cats of Their Wild Instincts

In the wild, cats like to sleep in dens or caves that offer them protection from the elements and predators. Doorways remind domestic cats of their wild instincts and make them feel safe and secure.

I think this is why my cat Snickers loves to sleep in the doorway of my bedroom. She can see what’s going on outside the door, but she also feels like she’s in her own little space.

6. Doorways Provide Mental Stimulation

Cats are very intelligent creatures, and they need mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Doorways provide cats with a great opportunity to people watch and observe the comings and goings of the household. This can help keep your cat’s mind active and help prevent boredom.

A statistics show that almost 40% of cats sleep in doorways because they find it mentally stimulating. So if your cat loves to sleep in the doorway, there’s a good chance they are just trying to stay sharp!

7. Doorways Offer a Change of Scenery

Cats can get bored easily, so a change of scenery is always welcome. Sleeping in a doorway provides a cat with a new perspective on their surroundings. And if the door leads to an outside area, it can also offer some fresh air and new smells.

Most of the American households have at least one cat that sleeps in the doorway. So, if your cat enjoys sleeping in doorways, they are definitely not alone!

8. Doorways Help Cats Keep an Eye on Their Humans

Cats are very intuitive creatures, and they like to know what their humans are up to. Sleeping in a doorway gives cats a front row seat to all the action. And if their human is busy cooking in the kitchen or watching television in the living room, they can still keep an eye on them.

Sometimes I feel like my cat Snickers is more interested in what I’m doing than she is in her own sleeping!

9. Doorways Help Cats Stay Cool

Cats are very sensitive to heat, and they can easily overheat. Sleeping in a doorway can help cats stay cool, as the door usually provides a draft of cooler air. And on hot summer days, a doorway can be the perfect spot for a cat to take a nap.

If you notice your cat sleeping in doorways more often in the summer, they are probably just trying to stay cool.

10. Separation Anxiety

Some experts believe that cats may sleep in doorways because of separation anxiety. If a cat’s favorite human is always coming and going, they may feel anxious when they are not around. Sleeping in a doorway can help ease this anxiety, as the cat can see and hear their human even when they are not in the same room.

If you think your cat may be suffering from separation anxiety, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you create a plan to ease your cat’s anxiety and help them feel more comfortable when they are away from you.

11. Unknown Reasons

Of course, there are always going to be some cats that sleep in doorways for unknown reasons. Just like humans, every cat is unique and has their own quirks and preferences. So if your cat loves to sleep in the doorway, don’t worry – they are just being themselves!

According to a study, around 50% of American cats sleep in doorways for unknown reasons. So, if your cat falls into this category, they are definitely not alone!

Is This Something I Should Be Worried About?

If your cat is sleeping in the doorway, it’s likely because she enjoys the security of knowing that she can see what’s going on in the rest of the house while she naps.

As long as she has a comfortable place to sleep and isn’t blocking traffic, there’s no need to worry. Some cats even prefer to sleep in doorways because they like the drafts that come through.

If your cat is blocking a doorway that you frequently use, however, you may want to provide her with an alternative spot to nap. A cat tree near a window might be just the thing.

How Do You Stop a Cat From Sleeping in the Doorway?

As any cat lover knows, cats often like to sleep in doorways. Unfortunately, this can be a problem if you live in an area with a lot of traffic.

For example, if your cat is sleeping in the doorway to your bedroom, you may not be able to get in or out without disturbing her. So, how do you stop a cat from sleeping in the doorway?

1. Provide an Alternative Spot

The first step is to provide your cat with an alternative spot to sleep. If she enjoys sleeping in doorways because she likes the drafts, try placing a bed or cat tree near a window.

If she enjoys sleeping in the doorway to your bedroom, try placing her bed or cat tree in the hallway outside of your bedroom.

2. Use a Cat Scratcher

I know, I know – you’re probably thinking, “A cat scratcher? Really?” But hear me out.

If your cat is sleeping in the doorway because she enjoys the feeling of being scratched, try using a cat scratcher. Place the scratcher in the doorway and see if she starts using it instead of sleeping there.

3. Get a Door Stopper

Door stopper, door wedge, whatever you want to call it – this little device can be a lifesaver when you have a cat that likes to sleep in doorways.

Simply place the door stopper under the door so that it can’t be opened all the way. This will create a space for your cat to sleep without blocking the doorway.

4. Give Her Attention

Sometimes, cats sleep in doorways because they feel neglected. If you think this might be the case with your cat, try giving her some extra attention.

Spend some time each day playing with her, brushing her, or just talking to her. Showing her that she is loved may help to ease any anxiety she’s feeling and encourage her to sleep in her own bed.

5. Close the Door

If all else fails, you can always close the door. Of course, this isn’t always practical or possible, but it is an option.

For example, if your cat likes to sleep in the doorway to your bedroom, you may want to close the door at night so that she can’t get in. during the day, you can open the door a crack so that she can come and go as she pleases.

6. Repelling Devices

There are a number of products on the market that are designed to keep cats away from certain areas. These devices emit a high-pitched noise that is only audible to cats, making them an effective way to keep your cat out of the doorway.

Of course, these devices aren’t right for everyone. If you decide to use one, make sure to place it out of your cat’s reach so that she can’t disable it.

7. Talk to Your Vet

If you’ve tried all of the above and your cat is still sleeping in the doorway, it’s time to talk to your vet. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing her to seek out doorways.

Your vet will be able to rule out any health concerns and help you create a plan to get your cat sleeping in her own bed again.

The Summary

So, there you have it – seven ways to stop a cat from sleeping in the doorway. Just remember, each cat is different, so what works for one may not work for another.

If you’re having trouble getting your cat to sleep in her own bed, talk to your vet. They may be able to offer additional advice or help you identify any underlying health problems.