Why Do Cats Loaf?

Is there anything more quintessentially “cat” than the cat loaf? Head up, limbs and tail tucked, and motor running with a peaceful “purr” as the soundtrack. In terms of funny behaviors, the cat loaf is up there with the Corgi sploot. It’s cute, cozy, and a little weird—just like them—but it may also leave you asking, “Why do cats loaf?”

Looking to learn about this quirky feline behavior? Read on to learn all about cat loafing, why cats loaf, and other types of kitty body language to look out for. Or, use the links below to jump ahead to a section of your choosing.

• What is a Cat Loaf?
• Why do Cats Loaf?
• Reading Your Cat’s Body Language
• Other Purrfect Positions for Lounging
• FAQs
• Final Notes

What is a Cat Loaf?

A cat loaf is a common, comfortable resting position for house cats. A cat in a loaf position tucks its limbs and tail beneath its body and settles into a pose that looks uncannily similar to a loaf of bread. It’s mostly rectangular with a perfectly rounded top. There you have it: a cat loaf!

Cat loafing can come in a range of different variations. These may include:

• The Classic Loaf: Limbs and tails fully tucked beneath and head upright like a classic loaf of sandwich bread.
• The Over Proofed Loaf: Just like a loaf of bread that’s been rising for too long, this one’s worn out! The over proofed loaf is a twist on the classic in which your cat goes totally facedown.
• The Sprouted Loaf: Hind legs fully tucked with either one or both front legs outstretched. This is the statue-esque position you may find beside an ancient pyramid.
• The Sourdough Loaf: Just like a sourdough starter, this loaf is alive and active! In the sourdough loaf, your cat’s limbs are not cozily tucked beneath them. Instead, they’re crouched upon their front and back legs and ready to rise at any moment.

Why Do Cats Loaf?

Cat loafing is a nearly universal feline behavior—but why? Veterinarians suggest that cat loafing has a range of different purposes. These include:

• Conservation of body heat: Have you noticed your cat loafs more in the winter? With your cat’s extremities nestled beneath them, they’re able to conserve as much body heat as possible and keep their limbs nice and warm.
• Security: Though the cat loaf is a resting position, it’s a secure one, too. Think of a cat loaf as a dramatic squat. Depending on how your cat arranges their limbs beneath them, they may be able to spring to action at any moment. You may even find big cats loafing in the wild for this exact reason.
• Trust building: Because loafing is an “active” resting position, a newly adopted cat may tend towards the loafing position as they get to know you. A cat loaf can let them test the waters despite a bit of cat anxiety. This allows them the option of resting at ease or getting a bit of space at a moment’s notice.
• Comfort: Some cats may simply find the loafing position the most comfortable one to rest in. Loafing may be a sign of content and relaxation.
• Self-protection: For a cat who is often tormented by a housemate, a loaf may be the safest position. In these cases, the cat may also put their ears back and lean away from their aggressor.

In some cases, cat loafing can be a sign of illness or injury, especially if their back is arched and their head is tucked downwards. This may be your cat’s way of easing pain or internal discomfort or protecting an injured limb. If you notice your cat in this crouched position, it may be time to speak to a vet—especially if it’s paired with other symptoms of illness like hiding, lack of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, and more.

If you pay attention to your cat’s loafing behavior, you may find that each type of loaf means something different. Of course, every cat is different and it can be difficult to precisely interpret your cat’s unique body language. To ensure that your cat is feeling safe and comfortable, regular vet visits are a must. Your vet can help you increase your cat’s comfort and, if necessary, treat your cat’s anxiety. If you’re ever concerned about a behavioral change, it may be time to reach out to your vet.

Reading Your Cat’s Body Language

Once you’ve unlocked the hidden meaning behind your loafing cat, you may find yourself wondering about other non-verbal cues your cat may be sending.

Understanding Common Cat Behaviors

Just like cat loafing, there are lots of behaviors that seem to be universal across cat-kind. Here’s what the most common of them mean:

• Kneading: Perhaps the only behavior more “cat” than a cat loaf, kneading a blanket or the like is a behavior leftover from kittenhood. Cats knead to release tension, relax, and show affection.¹ It also may help them scent mark or even simply make a comfortable nest in which to rest. If your cat is kneading, it probably means they’re comfortable and content.
• The zoomies: The zoomies are those sudden, inexplicable bursts of energy that cause your cat to run, yowl, arch, and generally go a little wild. It’s your cat’s way of releasing pent-up energy, kind of like when you get restless. While they’re typically not a sign of anything wrong, they may be a sign that your cat needs a bit more stimulation and play throughout the day.
• Rubbing: There’s nothing more heartwarming than a cat rubbing its head and body all over you. This behavior may fill your heart with joy—and for good reason! When a cat rubs itself on you, it’s leaving its scent on you and marking you as its territory. Your cat is simply saying, “You’re mine!”
• Tail wagging: We usually associate a good tail wag with dogs, but cats do it too! A cat tail wag is more of a twitch or swish. It can mean they’re feeling excited, playful, or focused.
• Knocking items off the table: Among the more frustrating cat behaviors, a cat who knocks an item off the table over and over can seem like a defiant toddler. Your cat isn’t trying to frustrate you—they’re simply trying to satisfy their own curiosity and instincts to hunt prey.

Other Purrfect Positions for Lounging

Cat loafs aren’t the only common cat resting positions. You may also find your kitty sporting one of these lounging poses:

• Full spread: While your cat may loaf on a cold day, they may go full-spread when it’s hot. A lounging position with arms and legs totally spread and floppy suggests that your cat is completely at ease. Plus, they’re able to release as much body heat as possible in this pose.
• Belly-up: A belly-up fish may be a bad sign, but a belly-up cat is a great one. A cat’s belly is its most vulnerable place. Not only is it full of vital organs, but it’s totally unprotected by bones or cartilage. If your cat is baring their whole belly to you, it’s a sign that they feel completely safe.
• Curled up: A totally curled position with their tail wrapped around their body may mean a few things. like loafing, it’s a good way to conserve body heat. It’s also a self-protective position, with its belly tucked safely away.

FAQs

Are cats happy when they loaf?

In most cases, a loafing cat is a cat who is relaxed, but still aware. A loaf allows for a comfortable rest, while still allowing your cat to move at any moment. Of course, your cat’s specific body language means something unique.

What does it mean when a cat sleeps like a loaf of bread?

If your cat is sleeping like a loaf of bread, chances are they’re relaxed but not totally disarmed. A loaf tucks away their front and back legs for safekeeping and allows them to stay aware. Some variations on the loaf, however, could mean other things. A face-down loaf may mean your cat is completely asleep, whereas a loaf with arms outstretched may mean total relaxation.

Do cats loaf when they’re uncomfortable?

In some cases, a cat may loaf when it is uncomfortable or hurt. The arched position may help protect painful internal organs or hide an injured limb. If you’re concerned that your loafing cat is unhappy, you may want to contact your vet.

Final Notes

Cat loafing is one of the many weird and adorable behaviors that make cats the quirky creatures they are. If your cat’s loafing behavior has recently changed or you’re concerned that their loaf may be a sign of pain and discomfort, it may be time to speak to a vet.

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