The “loaf” position has become quite popular on social media. If you own a cat, you’ve likely seen your cat sit in this position, where they as well. But why do cats sit in the bread loaf position?
Some cats seem to lay in this manner all the time. Others seem to hardly sit in it at all. Those that do sit in this position may only do so in certain situations or at certain times. In this article, we’ll take a look at all the reasons your cat may decide to lay in this position.
The 4 Reasons Why Cats Loaf
1. Relaxing
Cats often sit in the bread loaf position because they’re relaxed. Their paws aren’t out, so they aren’t preparing to run away from anything or attack anything. They often only sit like this when they’re very relaxed for that reason. If they need to jump up fast, they really can’t when in “bread loaf” mode.
However, just because your cat isn’t sitting in this position doesn’t mean that she isn’t relaxed. Some cats seem to enjoy this position more often than others. It seems to be a matter of personal preference.
2. Comfort
Some cats find this position extremely comfortable – others don’t. This likely accounts for why some cats are in this position all the time, and others may only go into it once or twice in their lifetime. Some cats may only find this position comfortable in certain places, like on blankets or cushions with a bit more give.
Others may not like it at all even when they’re on something squishy. If your cat doesn’t find this position comfortable, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything bad. Different cats have different preferences.
3. Warmth
When the cat’s paws are tucked under them, their body is acting like a blanket. For this reason, this position is often warmer than other positions. If your cat is cold, they may be more likely to get into this position in an attempt at staying warm.
You can tell your cat is cold if they are seeking out warmer areas. For instance, you cat may like laying on blankets, which are squishy and help them conserve some heat. Other cats will seek out active heat sources, like air vents and heaters.
Of course, if the room is a bit brisk, your cat is likely cold as well. They may be more likely to enter loaf cat mode if they are cold.
4. Pain
Occasionally, your cat may sit in the loaf position because one of their paws is hurt. Cats are often very good at hiding their pain and illnesses, so you often won’t get many signs that your cat isn’t feeling well.
In fact, you may only notice that they’re siting in loaf cat position a bit too much. This could be a sign that they’re trying to hide their paw because it hurts for whatever reason.
Of course, you’re likely to notice other symptoms as well. Your cat’s behavior may change. They may start hiding more or become more aggressive. Changes in appetite are important to note as well, as are changes to their litter box habits.
Should I Stop My Cat from Laying in Loaf Cat Mode?
Not necessarily. There is usually no problem with your cat laying in loaf cat mode. While it may not seem very comfortable to us, it is very comfortable to our felines.
The only time you may need to worry about your cat sitting in loaf cat mode is if they start showing other symptoms of pain as well. Your feline likely won’t act like they’re in pain, as cats will try to hide their illnesses. However, they may give it away by their behavior changes, such as laying in loaf cat mode much more than they once did. They may hide more in general or become skittish.
Because it can be so difficult to tell if a cat is sick or not, it is usually best to take them to the vet just in case. When it comes to cats, it is often better to be safe rather than sorry. Often, you won’t know for sure something is wrong with your feline until you take them to the vet and get a diagnosis.
Conclusion
Cats usually sit in bread loaf position if they’re exceedingly comfortable or trying to get warm. Some cats like this position more than others. It seems to be mostly a matter of personal preference. Occasionally, this may be a sign of pain in your cat’s feet, as they attempt to hide them.
In most cases, though, a cat sitting in loaf cat mode isn’t anything to be worried about.
Featured Image Credit: tovsla, Shutterstock
