Cat behaviour
Short answer: Cats sunbathe in the warmest spots because warmth helps them conserve energy, stay comfortable, and feel secure. Their bodies are adapted to prefer higher temperatures than humans, so that sunny patch on the floor is prime resting territory.
Written by Paul Denman, Cat Welfare Writer at Kitten Kaboodle
This guide provides general information and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.
Key points at a glance
- Cats prefer warmer ambient temperatures than humans.
- Sunbathing allows them to conserve energy and stay cosy.
- Warm spots help soothe muscles and joints.
- Sun patches are often located in safe, elevated, or quiet places.
- Guardians should balance warmth with protection from overheating and sun damage.
Cats are designed to like it warmer than we do
Many domestic cats descend from wild ancestors that lived in hot, dry environments. Their bodies are comfortable at temperatures that can feel too warm for us. This is why your cat may lie by a radiator while you are opening a window to cool down.
A sun patch on the floor or a warm windowsill gives them exactly the cosy microclimate they are seeking.
Sunbathing helps conserve energy
Maintaining body temperature takes energy. By lying in direct sunlight, a cat can use external warmth rather than burning extra calories to stay comfortable.
This is especially helpful for older cats or those who are less active, since gentle warmth can reduce the effort needed to stay at a pleasant temperature.
Warmth soothes muscles and joints
Just as humans use hot water bottles or heat packs, cats often seek warm surfaces to relieve stiffness and relax their muscles. Senior cats or those with joint discomfort may spend even more time in the warmest spots.
A sunny windowsill, a warm blanket, or a heated bed can provide gentle relief and comfort.
Sun patches tend to feel safe
Cats choose resting spots based on more than just temperature. They also consider:
- How easy it is to see their surroundings.
- How quickly they can move away if startled.
- Whether the area smells familiar and secure.
A warm windowsill, sofa back, or sunlit chair often ticks all these boxes, making it a favourite resting place.
Why your cat follows the sun around the house
Many guardians notice that their cat’s favourite spot changes throughout the day. In the morning it might be the kitchen floor, by afternoon the bedroom carpet, and in the evening the sofa arm.
Your cat is tracking the movement of the sun and choosing whichever location offers the best combination of warmth and safety at that moment.
Keeping sun loving cats safe
Most sunbathing is harmless and very enjoyable for cats, but there are some things to watch for.
- Overheating: make sure your cat always has access to cool, shaded areas and fresh water.
- Light coloured or hairless cats: exposed skin and pale ears can be more vulnerable to sun damage. Speak to your vet if you are concerned.
- Glass and conservatories: hot rooms can trap heat quickly, so be mindful of indoor temperatures on very sunny days.
Providing choice is key. As long as your cat can move away from the warmth when they choose, they will usually regulate their own comfort well.
How to create cosy but safe resting spots
You can support your cat’s love of warmth with a few simple adjustments.
- Place comfy beds where the sun naturally falls, while keeping at least one bed in a cooler, shaded area.
- Offer soft blankets on favourite chairs or window perches.
- Consider a low level heated mat for older cats, used under supervision and according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
This lets your cat enjoy warm, secure rest without being forced into a single hot or uncomfortable spot.
More Advent Calendar questions
Sunbathing is just one way cats blend comfort, instinct, and environment. Continue your festive cat journey with these entries:
- Why do cats purr?
- Why does my cat chirp at birds?
- Why does my cat knead me?
- Why does my cat follow me to the toilet?
- Why does my cat stare at me?
- Why does my cat sleep on my head?
- Why does my cat suddenly run around the house at night?
- Why do cats love boxes so much?
- Do cats recognise their names?
- Why does my cat bring me gifts?
- What does my cat’s tail actually mean?
- Why does my cat sit on my laptop?
- Why do some cats chirrup instead of meow?
- Does my cat love me?
Frequently asked sunbathing questions
- Can my cat get too hot while sunbathing?
- Yes, especially in very warm rooms or enclosed spaces. Always ensure your cat has access to shade, ventilation, and fresh water, and monitor them in very hot weather.
- Is it safe for hairless or light coloured cats to sunbathe?
- These cats can be more vulnerable to sun damage on exposed skin. Speak to your vet about safe options, and encourage them to sunbathe indoors away from intense midday sun.
- Why does my cat move spots throughout the day?
- They are following the movement of the sun and adjusting for comfort, combining warmth, safety, and their changing needs as the light shifts.
Love watching your cat chase every patch of sunshine?
Continue your Advent journey through our Articles section,
and share photos of your cat in their favourite sunbathing spots.
🐾 Here is to golden whiskers, warm paws, and every sleepy stretch in the sun. 🐾