Why Does My Cat Lay On My Chest?

​Cats are sometimes known as mysterious creatures. They tend to pick and choose when they want to do something for their owners.

One minute they may show tons of affection, while in another, they just want to be left alone. Because of this, cats can perform some seemingly unexpected behaviors and acts. For instance, lying down on your chest. 

You may have noticed your furry friend settling on your chest while you're lying in bed or chilling on the couch; they may even begin purring.

​There are a few reasons for this, some that may even surprise you. Below, you will find some reasons why your cat is lying on your chest. 
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​1. Showing Their Love 

​Contrary to popular belief, cats can be very affectionate to their owners. They may not show this affection as much as dogs, but when cats do show it they make sure it’s extra special. 

Them choosing to snuggle and cuddle up to you while perched on your chest can simply be their way of communicating that they love you. 

Physical contact is the main way cats show affection. If you work all day out of the house and you notice your cat rubbing against you or climbing onto your chest when seated, this is a form of bonding that some cats enjoy.
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​So why not return the favor and give your cat some love; to tighten the bonds between you.
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​2. Claiming Their Territory 

​Cats are instinctively very territorial. While this behavior is commonly associated with dogs, cats can be just as possessive of the things and people around them that they enjoy. 

Luckily, unlike dogs, cats don’t urinate to claim their belongings! Alternatively, they will lay on specific items to spread their unique scent.

You may notice your cat doing this to beds, clothes, or toys. Essentially, it’s their way of saying: “That’s mine!”

Similarly, cats will perform the same behavior towards their humans. If your cat suddenly plops itself on your chest and doesn’t move for a while, this may mean they’re trying to spread their scent and ‘claim’ you. 

When doing so, they may even begin rubbing their chest on your chest or kneading their paws; these actions all help to spread their scent. 

​Clearly, if your cat is doing this, they don’t want to share you with any other feline - so you could take it as a compliment! 
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​3. You’re A Warm Pillow 

​Cats tend to gravitate towards warm, cozy spots where they can snuggle and nap.

Whether this is near a heat vent, by a radiator, or lounging in the sun, you may notice them contorting into, sometimes questionable, positions to get into the perfect spot.

Likewise, the human body is also a reliable and natural source of warmth, and what is the hottest part of your body?

This would be your chest! Here is where your heart is located and performs the most important task of pumping blood all around your body.

The warmest parts of the body are typically closest to your heart, whereas the further they are the colder they are. 

So who could blame your kitty for wanting to snuggle up on your chest when you produce such a steady source of heat?

​Especially in the winter months, this is the perfect place for your cat to keep cozy and warm. 
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4. You Provide A Familiar Smell 

​Most cats have an impressive sense of smell. This helps them find food, navigate their surroundings, and hunt. A familiar scent will also provide them with immense comfort. 

For cats, your chest may be the comfiest location where they can smell your natural aroma. This is not only close to your armpits, but your chest also provides a large surface area for exuding scents.

Therefore, your chest is a go-to for your cat to feel the most comfortable and safe. Unlike humans, cats have a very accurate sense of smell, and they may even use this to identify you as their owner.

Your cat may even come to you if they are feeling scared and wary of predators, as they want to go to a location where they feel protected and safe.

​After all, you are your cat's provider, and they have ‘claimed’ you, so your chest may be the perfect location for security. 
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​5. Your Cats Likes Your Soothing Heartbeat

​It's an instinctual behavior for many mammals to enjoy sleeping together, in these cases, the heartbeat of another sleeping companion can be comforting and calming.

If your cat is feeling threatened, it may seek out ways to ease this discomfort. 

While cats are known to be independent and tough, they can also have a soft side.

When facing anxieties, they will often revert to their adolescent ways to revisit the comfort and calmness they felt as kittens when curled up with their mothers. 

Due to the rhythmic nature of a heartbeat combined with relaxed breathing from your chest, it can be hypnotic to cats and provide them with some much-needed relaxation.

​The slow movements and sounds of your body may bring your cat comfort and tranquility and sometimes; even lull them to sleep. So, if your cat is lying on your chest, this may be why. 
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Final Thoughts

​Cats can sometimes be quite picky animals. Where they choose to sleep and relax can be dependent on many different factors. If you’re lucky enough, they may even decide to sleep or lay down on your chest.

There are many different reasons for this ranging from the warmth your chest provides to your soothing heartbeat.

Whatever the reason,  just know that your cat feels 100% comfortable around you and wants to spend time with you.
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​Hopefully, this guide has helped you discover why your cat is lying on your chest.