Pilates Soulful Sunday: The Comfort of Cats and the Science of Sharing Your Bed

Cat rests peacefully on the bed, embodying calm, comfort, and the healing rhythm of stillness.

Some people wrinkle their noses at the idea of letting a cat sleep on the bed. They picture little paws fresh from the litter box or imagine fur floating around like confetti. But before you push your feline roommate off the duvet, it might be worth looking at what science and a bit of experience have to say.

Cats are surprisingly clean. They spend up to a quarter of their waking hours grooming, which is roughly the human equivalent of taking thirty baths a day. Their saliva contains natural antibacterial properties that help remove dirt and bacteria. So, that cat who hops onto your pillow probably has better hygiene habits than most gym towels.

Beyond cleanliness, sharing your space with a cat can bring some unexpected health benefits. Studies have shown that cat owners often have lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart attacks. The gentle rhythm of a cat’s purr has a calming effect on the nervous system, much like a steady breath pattern in Pilates. It settles you, grounds you, and quiets the mind.

There is also emerging research on how interacting with cats may help slow cognitive decline. Petting a cat engages multiple senses at once, touch, sound, sight, and this sensory stimulation can trigger old memories, lift mood, and even support brain function. For those living with dementia, these small moments of connection can make an enormous difference.

So, if you wake up to find a purring weight pressed against your leg, maybe that is not an inconvenience. Maybe it is a reminder that connection and calm can come from the simplest things, a cat curled at your feet, your breath steady, and the quiet rhythm of a shared heartbeat before the day begins.