Why Do Cats Love Sunshine?
Have you ever wandered why cats love sleeping in sunshine? Why they find the best little sunpuddles all through the house? I did a little googling and it seems like there are a variety of answers. From the very simple - they just like to keep warm to a little more complex because it helps offset the drop in basal metabolism. What do you think?
Since this one also loves to lay on the heating vent or with the heating vent blowing directly on her, I'm guessing it has a lot do with keeping warm. Some people speculate that it's the same reason they like to sleep in boxes, all that insulation keeps them warm. I'm not sure about that, but I do agree that kitties like to stay warm.
Of course, the problem with sunpuddles is that they are transient. Oh why couldn't this chair stay in the sun all day long, but alas, with a heavy yawn, she has to get up and find another sunny spot.
What do you think, Why do cats love sunshine?
My artsy photo edited with Topaz Labs:
Michelle Miller says
I'm thinking it's the warm thing too because mine are always doing different things to stay warm. Sun puddles, heat ducts, under the covers, etc. Both of mine love to be under the covers when it's cold, especially Alice.
Love the shots, as always!
Ida P. Krause says
I think they like sunshine becasue they know they will photograph well in it! Your sweet Coco is adorable in the sunshine.
Tizzy Brown says
Coco is an absolute beauty! I've always thought cats sit in the sun to soak up the warmth, they are definitely solar powered creatures. If I didn't have to 'adult' I'd curl up on a windowsill in the sun all day too. That's the life!
Pam Greer says
Solar powered creatures! I love it!
messymimi says
The simplest answer it seems to me is the one James Herriot came up with, “Cats are connoisseurs of comfort.” And that in whatever form they find it at that moment, i would add.
Pam Greer says
So true!
Sandee says
I think they love the sun just like we do. You see them seeking out the sun in the winter months more just like us humans. Warmth.
Coco is most photogenic.
Have a purrfect Feline Friday. My best to your mom. ♥
Heather says
Love Coco in the sun! Such beautiful shots. My kitties love to stay warm. We have a Japanese kotatsu table that has a heater and one of my cats can't get enough of that during the winter. If we can't find her we know where she's at....
Pam Greer says
My kitties would love a table with a heater!
Robin says
Coco looks gorgeous laying in the sunlight! I love the way her fur glistens in the light. Personally, I agree with your idea that they just like to be warm. My kitties can be found anywhere there is something generating heat. 🙂
The Daily Pip says
Our cats are on a perpetual mission to stay warm - sunpuddles, heat vents, boxes, under blankets, etc.
Valentine says
As always, Miss Pam, be-au-ti-ful photos! The warmth from the sun, of the blowy heater, and a lap nest just feels so-o nice! I think wanting warmth is just in our nature. Purrs!
Sheltie Times says
My Sable shelties have always loved sun too. My Tri is mostly black so she limits her time in the sun as she gets overly warm too quickly.
speedyrabbit says
Sunpuddles are always lovely to lie in,xx Speedy
Amber says
I think laying in a warm puddle of sunshine is one of a cat's simple pleasures. Heck, I'm a human, and I like doing it! I love taking a nap with the sun shining on me and keeping me warm. 🙂
Erin the Cat, Princess says
Coco's selfie with the filter is a delight and sure has quite an impact on the surrounding details too. Well as has been said, vitamin D and warmth and as cats have a slightly higher body temp than humans I suppose it is more logical to lay around and sun themselves. Of course as cats don't have to go to work, we can lay around. MOL
Athena says
Beautiful pic!
Athena loves the sunshine to keep her warm on cold days. She also knows it's a good source of Vitamin D.
Purrs xx
Athena and Marie
The Island Cats says
We love the warmth! It's that simple.
Ellen Pilch says
Very nice art. I like all these photos, especially the last one where it looks like she is laughing 🙂
Roby Sweet says
She looks so pretty in the sun! I think they like the sun because it helps them stay warm.
Kathe W. says
of course cats love the warm sun! Best place for naps!
Sandee says
What a beautiful kitty. They do indeed love sunpuddles.
Have a purrfect Feline Friday and weekend. ♥