As animal lovers, catching a glimpse of our furry friends always puts a smile on our face. But there's something about seeing animals sleeping that's so cute it hurts. Maybe it's because it's when they're at their most vulnerable, and there's some maternal instinct that kicks in. Maybe it's soothing watching their bellies rise and fall. Or maybe we're envious of their ability to just plop down anywhere and snooze away. No matter what the reason, it's deeply satisfying. So if you're in need of some comforting content, check out these photos of animals taking naps.
1 | These curled-up kittens
ShutterstockThey look like they're having the world's best sleepover.
2 | This out-cold panda
ShutterstockWell, someone clearly had a long day at the office.
3 | This puppy bedmate
ShutterstockDogs always want to be involved in whatever you're doing. So if you say it's naptime, it's naptime!
4 | This sleepy seal
ShutterstockLife's a beach for this little guy.
5 | This lion having a well-deserved rest
ShutterstockIt's not easy being king of the jungle, you know?
6 | These otters locked in an embrace
ShutterstockThey are taking spooning to a whole new level.
7 | This raccoon whose blanket is the sun
ShutterstockAnyone who's ever passed out watching Netflix is familiar with this position.
8 | This deer who looks like Bambi
ShutterstockThis looks straight out of a fairytale.
9 | This elephant mommy and baby duo
ShutterstockFun fact: elephants can sleep standing up. This would really come in handy at rush hour on the train.
10 | This snoozing tiger
ShutterstockThey really are just big cats, aren't they?
11 | This nimble koala
ShutterstockIt would take a human a lot of yoga and meditation to achieve this level of zen.
12 | This hibernating bear
ShutterstockImagine snoozing for that long!
13 | This squirrel that's tucked in for the night
ShutterstockThere's nothing cuter than when they curl their little paws into their chest.
14 | This cat who looks like he's had a rough night
ShutterstockIt's OK, buddy, we've all been there.
15 | This penguin in repose
ShutterstockPenguins often sleep for short periods of time during the day and, yes, this is how they do it.
16 | This cozy duck
ShutterstockDucks sleep with their beaks tucked into their feathers for warmth, and it couldn't be cuter.
17 | This puppy sleeping on his back
ShutterstockThis position is one of the many things that make corgis the best pets.
18 | This excellent sleeping companion
ShutterstockIt's not just us. Science says women sleep better with a dog in the bed—as opposed to a cat or even another person.
19 | This gentle giant
ShutterstockThat feeling when you close your eyes just for a minute while writing your term paper.
20 | This Frenchie slumber party
ShutterstockThere's no better pillow.
21 | This dog in a sleeping mask
ShutterstockHe's got Monday morning vibes... except it looks like he'll be sleeping in till the late afternoon.
22 | This lazy koala
ShutterstockThis is basically a hard-working dad in a hammock after a long day of grilling at a barbecue.
23 | This very comfortable lion
ShutterstockWho needs a fancy pillow? A rock can do just fine.
24 | This slumbering ox
ShutterstockIt's not easy out on the range.
25 | This tranquil polar bear
ShutterstockThe very essence of calm.