Comfort: Cats have sensitive eyes and covering them with their paws can provide a sense of comfort and security, similar to how humans might use a sleep mask.
Blocking Light: Cats are crepuscular, which means they are most active at dawn and dusk. Their eyes are adapted to low light conditions, so bright artificial lights during the day can disrupt their sleep. By covering their eyes, cats can block out excessive light and get a more restful sleep.
Protection from Predators: Although modern domesticated cats are not as vulnerable to predators as their wild counterparts, the instinctual behavior of covering their eyes while sleeping may still be a leftover protective measure. By covering their eyes, cats may feel more secure and less exposed.
Preserving Moisture: Cats have a naturally low tear production rate, making their eyes prone to dryness. Covering their eyes with their paws can help to prevent tear evaporation and keep their eyes moist during sleep.
Sensory Filtering: Some cats may cover their eyes as a way to filter out sensory input and achieve deeper relaxation. This behavior can help them to block out distractions and focus on rest.
Self-Soothing: Cats use a variety of self-soothing behaviors to manage stress and emotions, including kneading, grooming, and covering their eyes. Covering their eyes can provide a sense of comfort and reassurance during moments of anxiety or stress.
Overall, covering their eyes while sleeping is a natural and instinctive behavior in cats that serves various purposes, from providing comfort and blocking out light to protecting their eyes and promoting a restful sleep.