Key Takeaways
- Cats spend 12–16 hours sleeping daily — comfort matters.
- While pillows aren’t essential, many cats prefer them for warmth, scent familiarity, and joint support.
- Not all pillows are suitable for cats — shape, fabric, and location matter.
- Pillows can improve rest for older cats, anxious cats, and those with joint issues.
- Choosing or avoiding a pillow should be based on your cat’s natural behavior and sleeping habits.
Introduction
Cats are known for their love of luxurious naps, curling into the coziest spots they can find. But among the many questions cat parents ask, one remains surprisingly underexplored: Should cats have pillows?
It might sound like a small consideration, yet when you examine how much time cats spend sleeping — up to two-thirds of their lives — their bedding becomes a central part of their wellbeing. While dog beds and orthopedic cushions are widely marketed, feline-specific sleep ergonomics are often overlooked.
In this article, we dig into the historical roots of feline sleep behavior, the psychological and physiological benefits of soft surfaces like pillows, and practical advice on how to choose or reject a pillow based on your cat’s unique needs. The truth? A pillow might just be what your cat never knew it needed — or not at all.
The Sleeping Habits of Cats: A Historical Perspective
Domestic cats inherited their sleeping behavior from wild ancestors like the African wildcat (Felis lybica). These wild felines spent significant time in dens, tree hollows, and high grasses — safe, warm, and often cushioned by nature itself.
According to research published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, modern cats retain over 85% of the behavioral sleep traits of their wild predecessors. That includes seeking warmth, height, and enclosed comfort.
Historically, cats slept on:
- Bundled clothing or hay in barns
- Human bedding (seen in ancient Egyptian households)
- Soft natural bedding like moss, leaves, or padded caves
So, while “pillows” in the modern sense didn’t exist for ancient cats, they consistently sought out similar textures and support — just by different names.
Why Do Cats Seem to Love Pillows?
Not all cats love pillows — but many absolutely do. Here’s why:
1. Scent Familiarity
Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, paws, and flanks. When they rest their face on a pillow, they're often marking it with their scent, which builds emotional security.
"A familiar scent on a pillow can make an anxious cat feel safer than a brand-new luxury bed ever could."
— Dr. Lauren Finka, animal behaviorist (source)
2. Joint and Spine Support
As cats age, they can develop arthritis and other joint issues — especially in the hips and spine. A soft, moderately firm pillow can reduce pressure on these areas.
3. Warmth Retention
Especially in colder months, pillows offer insulation from cold floors, helping cats maintain their body temperature without expending energy.
4. Elevated Viewpoints
Some cats like sleeping with their heads slightly elevated. A pillow can offer a better vantage point, satisfying their instinct to observe surroundings even when dozing.
Do Cats Need Pillows?
No — cats don’t need pillows in the same way humans do. Their bodies are far more adaptable. But that doesn’t mean they don’t benefit from having one.
Think of it this way:
- A cat can sleep in a shoebox, but it might prefer a soft pillow-lined nook.
- A cat can nap on a hardwood floor, but it might sleep longer and deeper on a fleece-padded headrest.
A 2021 survey by Catster Magazine found that 38% of cat owners reported their cat used a pillow or cushion as a headrest, while 22% said their cat shared their human pillow nightly.
The Pros of Giving Your Cat a Pillow
✅ Improved Sleep Quality
Cats tend to sleep deeper in padded environments, especially if the pillow holds heat well.
✅ Great for Senior Cats
Older felines or those with arthritis often find soft, memory foam-style pillows beneficial for pressure relief.
✅ Stress Reduction
Familiar-smelling pillows provide emotional comfort, particularly for cats prone to anxiety or environmental changes.
✅ Versatility
Pillows are easy to move. If your cat relocates its nap spot, so can the pillow.
The Cons of Giving Your Cat a Pillow
❌ Allergy Risk
Dust mites or synthetic materials in human pillows may cause sneezing or skin irritation in sensitive cats.
❌ Overheating
Fluffy pillows can trap heat — not ideal for breeds like Maine Coons or Ragdolls that already run warm.
❌ Not Chew-Proof
Young kittens or stressed cats may knead or chew pillows, which can pose a choking hazard if seams come loose.
❌ Territorial Behavior
In multi-cat homes, pillows can become “claimed” resources, potentially causing disputes.
What Makes a Good Cat Pillow?
When choosing a pillow for your cat, consider the following criteria:
✅ Fabric
- Fleece, microfiber, or soft cotton are ideal.
- Avoid harsh polyester blends or anything that traps static.
✅ Firmness
- Moderate firmness provides support while still contouring slightly.
- Avoid overly soft or saggy pillows.
✅ Washability
- Choose pillows with removable, machine-washable covers.
- Cats track litter, dirt, and oils — frequent cleaning is key.
✅ Size
- Aim for a pillow that's roughly the width of your cat’s body when curled up.
- Rectangular shapes work better than round ones for headrests.
Creative Ways to Offer a “Pillow” Without Buying One
If you're hesitant to buy a specialty cat pillow, try these DIY alternatives:
- Folded plush towel with your scent
- A rolled-up fleece blanket in a basket
- Unused human travel pillow (firm, not memory foam)
- Stuffed cotton sock tied off as a bolster
Cats often prefer reused items with their scent or yours over brand-new materials. It's not about the product — it's about the familiarity and comfort.
When NOT to Use a Pillow
Some situations where it’s better to avoid giving your cat a pillow include:
- Outdoor cats – Pillows can collect moisture, mildew, and pests.
- Cats with skin conditions – Soft fabrics may irritate sensitive skin or trap oils.
- Cats who chew or shred fabric – Ingesting synthetic stuffing poses health risks.
- Kittens under 8 weeks old – They may become trapped under heavy fabric or smother themselves accidentally.
Related Product Ideas from The Heaps Variety
We offer several cat comfort items that act as soft headrests or full-body support pillows, including:
- ✅ Self-warming cat mats with plush tops
- ✅ Faux fur cat beds with raised rims (ideal for headrest behavior)
- ✅ Foldable fleece mats that can be shaped like a pillow
- ✅ Orthopedic cat loungers designed for senior cats
Explore the full cat beds and mats collection to match your cat’s comfort style.
Expert Opinions: What Vets and Behaviorists Say
“Cats value choice. Some like soft, warm pillows. Others like hardwood floors. The key is to provide options, observe, and adapt.”
— Dr. Sarah Ellis, International Cat Care (source)
“For cats with arthritis or anxiety, providing a safe, soft pillow can dramatically improve sleep quality and reduce behavioral issues.”
— Dr. Gary Landsberg, DVM and veterinary behaviorist (source)
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I give my cat a human pillow?
Not typically. Human pillows are too soft, can retain moisture, and aren't designed with cats in mind. Instead, opt for smaller, washable, and firmer alternatives.
Can pillows cause overheating in cats?
Yes, especially in summer or for long-haired breeds. Use breathable materials and monitor your cat’s behavior. If they move off the pillow often, it might be too warm.
What if my cat ignores the pillow?
Totally normal. Some cats never take to pillows. Let them choose. You can try placing it in their favorite nap spot or adding a familiar-smelling item.
Do older cats benefit more from pillows?
Yes. Senior cats with joint pain often sleep better with mild support. Orthopedic or memory foam materials work best.
How do I clean a cat pillow?
Choose machine-washable covers or wash the entire pillow (if small) every 1–2 weeks. Use unscented detergent and avoid dryer sheets or strong fragrances.
Conclusion
So — should cats have pillows? The answer depends on the cat. While they aren’t essential, many cats benefit from soft, supportive surfaces that mimic the comforts of nature or human companionship. From reducing anxiety to cushioning tired joints, pillows can elevate a cat's sleep from ordinary to luxurious.
Just like their wild ancestors, today's house cats are selective sleepers. When given the choice, they'll find their own version of “perfect” — and if that includes a pillow, so be it.
In the end, the goal isn’t to humanize your cat — it’s to honor their instincts while offering modern comforts. And that’s a sleep upgrade every cat can appreciate.