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Often mistaken for a little paunch, a belly (or, dare we say, “chonk”), this flappy, jiggly area on a cat’s belly is a natural, genetic part of feline anatomy. These “primordial pouches” are also found in wild cats, like lions and tigers.
If you’ve noticed this pouch on your cat, you’ve probably wondered, does it mean my cat’s fat (gasp!)? But, before you start body-shaming your cat, learn the following first!
- What is a primordial pouch?
- Why do cats have them?
- Does it mean your cat is fat?
What Is the Primordial Pouch?
The primordial pouch is the extra layer of skin and fat along the lower abdomen of many cats, hanging near the back legs. Think of it like a kangaroo pouch, minus the cute little joey inside! (Source: YouTube, Jackson Galaxy)
This pouch is not exclusive to any one feline breed, but it is more pronounced in some cats like the Bengal, Egyptian Mau, and Pixiebob, all known for having well-defined pouches. In contrast, the Thai cat usually sports a smaller primordial pouch.
In domesticated kitties, this pouch begins to develop around 6 months in both males and females but can vary in size from almost undetectable to indisputable!
“These pouches are perfectly normal and healthy.”
José Arce, President-elect, the American Veterinary Medical Association.
The Primordial Pouch: Nicknames You Can’t Resist!
- Jelly Belly
- Tum-Tum
- Juicy Loosies
- Cookie Pouch
- Snack Pack
- Puddin’ Belly
- Fluff Armor
- Jungle Pouch
- Swiffer
- Swag Bag
- Flab-a-Lanche
- Pantaloons
- Biscuit Baskets
- And MORE!
Why Do Cats Have Primordial Pouches?
The exact purpose of the primordial pouch has been extensively debated without a definitive answer, but feline experts and scientists believe it serves several important roles, like the four below.
1. Protection in Fights
Cats can be fierce and like to throw a good kick or two during a tussle. The primordial pouch acts as a layer of protection for vital organs, including the liver, especially during those intense bunny-kicking sessions! (Source: PetMD)
2. Flexibility for Running and Jumping
Have you ever noticed how agile cats are? The primordial pouch gives them more flexibility by allowing the abdomen to stretch when leaping or sprinting. With this extra skin, they can stretch and twist much more effectively, making that chase after a laser pointer or their fifth zoomie lap around the house even more impressive.
3. Storage for Extra Fat
In the wild, cats can’t always count on regular meals. So, the primordial pouch provides a little storage area for extra fat or a larger meal. Your cat may not need to worry about food shortages in your home, but that doesn’t mean they can’t hang on to their evolutionarily honed “food pouch.” (Source: Live Science)
4. Possible Heat Regulation
The primordial pouch may also help the feline control their body temperature with efficient air circulation.
The feline primordial pouch might not have a function at all these days. “It could be an evolutionary relic trait left over from wild ancestors.”
Dr. Nicole Savageau, a veterinarian with The Vets.
Does a Primordial Pouch Mean My Cat is Overweight?
Not necessarily! The primordial pouch is separate from a cat’s body fat and belly. It’s usually loose and floppy, hanging down a bit, and might even sway as your cat walks (no shame in a little jiggle!). You can tell if your cat is overweight by looking at their overall body shape. An overweight cat will have a rounder, fuller belly and lack definition between their body and legs. Some believe the primordial pouch develops after a cat is altered, but it’s unrelated.
But, if you’re still unsure, consult your vet, who can help determine if your cat’s pouch is just right or if they could use some extra exercise.
Use the Body Condition Score (BCS), which veterinarians use to determine if your cat is at its ideal weight.
Conclusion
Your cat’s primordial pouch shows their evolution, strength, and wild ancestry. It’s their little built-in fanny pack, and let’s be honest: it’s part of their charm! So put the body-shaming to rest and appreciate the amazing feline in your life! (Source: TheBestTimes.com)
Jackson Galaxy: How Much Should My Cat Weigh?
Making Your Own Cat Treats can help ensure the most nutritious ingredients without
unwanted fillers and preservatives!
Try this simple recipe with just three ingredients (canned chicken, cornmeal, and egg).
Jelly Belly or not, YOUR feline deserves the best grooming!
With the EasyGroomer pictured above! Cats LOVE this grooming tool because the blade mimics a
cat’s tongue!
They also make GREAT Stocking Stuffers for the cat people in your life!
