Friends and Felines,

The cat loaf: it’s the greatest thing since sliced bread! Have you ever noticed your cat lounging with their paws and tail tucked beneath them? Ever notice how in this formation they resemble a fresh loaf of warm bread? We’re big loaf lovers at BLVD Cat and we’re here to answer: why do cats loaf? 

Our feline friends are masters of disguise and while it may be easy to simply add loafing to the long list of strangely adorable behaviors our kitties have (we’re looking at you, biscuit makers), there actually is a reason why our cats loaf! 

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Firstly, there are a range of loaf shapes our cats can take. The aforementioned classic loaf (where the legs and tail are fully tucked under them), is on one end of the spectrum. But there are loaf variations that achieve the same effect! Cats often position themselves in unique ways, such as sitting with their tails curled around their bodies and their paws resting flat on the ground. Some may tuck one paw fully while leaving the other partially visible. Others prefer to squeeze into tight spaces like boxes or sinks, keeping their limbs neatly tucked beneath their bodies. 

You’re likely to find your cat loafing in their favorite spot. This pose is usually a sign that your cat is feeling calm and at ease. With their paws neatly tucked in, cats in a loaf shape show no signs of being in a defensive stance or ready to pounce. Another possible reason for this behavior could be its effectiveness in conserving body heat. By curling into a compact loaf, cats may be able to regulate their body temperature more efficiently without needing to move around.

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Yes, loafing is cute, but is there any cause for concern? The one thing we recommend cat parents to look out for is signs of discomfort. Your cat might also be signaling pain if they are loafing. A kitty that is sat perched on their paws can be in pain. Take a quick look while they’re loafing. If their paws are fully tucked - we should be in the clear! If you think your cat might be in pain, contact us. Because our feline friends are so good at hiding their pain, we want to stay extra vigilant.

We hope you find these tips useful and that they help keep your cats happy and healthy this holiday season. Contact us with any questions you may have or to schedule a visit. We're always here for you and your cats!

Always at Their Service,

The BLVD Cat Team