QUESTION
Why does my cat sleep on clean towels but not her blanket?
Cats often choose clean towels over their own blanket because of a mix of texture, smell, warmth, and location.
Common reasons include:
-
Texture and warmth
Towels, especially terry cloth, can feel good to knead and may hold heat well if they’ve just come from the dryer. -
Scent
Cats rely heavily on scent. A fresh towel may carry traces of your scent or laundry smells, which can feel comforting or interesting. Their own blanket can sometimes smell stale, overly familiar, or just less appealing than fresh laundry. -
Location and security
Cats often choose the spot, not just the object. A towel may be in a safer, warmer, quieter, or more elevated place that gives her a better view of her surroundings. Many cats prefer spots where they can rest while still monitoring the environment. -
Novelty
A clean towel is new and interesting, while the blanket may be too familiar or not as engaging.