01/20/2023
Your Cat Has a Primordial Pouch
When is a flabby belly not a flabby belly? When it’s a primordial pouch. Unfortunately humans can’t use this excuse, but cats sure can! Find out what a primordial pouch is and why your cat has one.
Have you ever noticed that even the slimmest feline has a slight hanging belly? This saggy layer of skin (typically covered in fur) is called the primordial pouch, and it’s a normal part of your cat’s anatomy. It is located along the length of the stomach, but tends to be most noticeable closer to the rear.
All felines have this abdominal flap, although it varies in size from cat to cat. The pouch may sway from side to side when your cat walks, or subtly jiggle. It can be more pronounced in older cats or formerly overweight felines. Even big cats like lions and tigers have a primordial pouch.
Experts believe the cat primordial pouch evolved for several reasons. The primary purpose of this abdominal flap is to protect a feline’s sensitive lower belly during fights with predators and other cats—particularly from that adorable yet ferocious secret weapon, the “bunny kick.” In a serious skirmish, the primordial pouch shields vital organs from sharp tearing claws. This extra bit of cat belly may also aid in your feline’s running abilities: The primordial pouch allows cats to stretch out farther while taking long strides. Didn’t know you had a little bear running around the house, did you? Experts surmise that another reason cats have a primordial pouch is that their wildcat ancestor needed a stretchy stomach to gorge itself and store food for a while. Unlike our overindulged furbabies, wildcats (as well as many strays and ferals) don’t know when their next meal will present itself.
