Types and Names of Cat Sitting Positions | Explaining What Your Cat's Sitting Position Reveals About Its Feelings

Our beloved cats heal us with their adorable gestures. Even just sitting there, they are irresistibly cute.

But did you know that each of your cat's "sitting positions" actually has a name and a meaning?

This time, we'd like to focus on cat sitting positions and explain what your cat's posture reveals about their feelings. This is a must-read for cat owners, as you'll be able to understand how your cat is feeling!

What a cat's sitting position reveals about its feelings

There are six main cat sitting positions.

• Cat Loaf
• Sphinx Pose
• Side Sit
• Egyptian Sit
• Tail-Wrap Sit
• "Suko" Sit

In fact, you can tell a cat's level of relaxation and vigilance from its sitting position. Each has a name, which I will explain in detail.

Cat Loaf

The **Cat Loaf** is a sitting position where a cat neatly tucks its front and back paws underneath its body. It's called "Kōbako-zuwari" in Japanese, which translates to "incense box sitting," because it resembles the rectangular shape of an incense box. On social media, it's a popular pose referred to as **"paws tucked in."**

Because it's a position from which the cat can't move quickly, it indicates that the cat is calm and relaxed.

Sphinx Pose

A cat's lying down position, similar to a dog's "down," is called the "Sphinx Pose." It's named after the Egyptian Sphinx, which has a connection to cats and shares the same sitting posture.

Since their front paws are extended, they can move more easily than in the Cat Loaf. This is a sitting position when they are slightly on guard. They are even more vigilant when their front paws are upright.

However, some cats are not good at the Cat Loaf. Some cats have difficulty tucking their front paws, so you might see a sitting position that is a hybrid of the Cat Loaf and the Sphinx Pose. They are unique and cute!

Side Sit

When a cat lies down and collapses its hind legs to the side, it's called a "Side Sit."

This lying down position indicates that the cat is very relaxed. If they also throw their front paws out or rest their chin on the ground, it means they are feeling sleepy.

Many cats will even fall asleep on their back in this position, but if you suddenly touch their belly, they might get angry... So even if your cat is in a "belly-up" position, it's not a sign that it's okay to touch their belly, so be careful.

Egyptian Sit

The sitting position that resembles a dog's sit is called the "Egyptian Sit." Similar to the Sphinx, it is derived from the cat goddess "Bastet" in Egyptian mythology.

Since it's an upright sitting position, they can move quickly. This posture can be said to indicate that they are wary of their surroundings.

Tail-Wrap Sit

The sitting position where a cat is in an Egyptian Sit posture and curls its tail around its feet is called the "Tail-Wrap Sit." On social media, it's also called a "tail scarf," and it certainly exudes a cat-like elegance.

The Tail-Wrap Sit is said to be a posture cats adopt when they are on guard or a little irritated.

On the other hand, there are theories that they do it to keep their tail clean or because they feel cold. If your cat is in a Tail-Wrap Sit, check the room environment.

"Suko" Sit

The sitting position where a cat throws its hind legs forward like a human is called the "Suko Sit." It's commonly seen in Scottish Folds, hence the abbreviated name "Suko Sit."

Because of its rather peculiar appearance, it's also sometimes called the "old man sit" or "middle-aged man sit."

Cats of other breeds also often do the "Suko Sit" when grooming themselves. This sitting position exposes their vulnerable belly and makes it difficult for them to move quickly, indicating a state of considerable relaxation.

However, a "Suko Sit" can also indicate pain in joints or other areas. Observe their gait and appetite, and if their condition seems unusual, consult a veterinarian.

When these sitting positions might be a sign of illness

When your cat is sitting in an unusual way, it could be a sign of an underlying illness.

Sitting position is different than usual

If a cat is trying to protect a painful area, it may sit in an unusual way. Injuries or cat flu can cause joint pain, so if you notice anything out of the ordinary, consult a veterinarian.

Scooting / Cat Tank

Have you ever seen a cat scooting, moving across the floor by dragging its bottom with its legs extended upwards? This behavior, commonly known as scooting or "cat tank," could actually be a sign that their anal glands are full.

Summary

Each of a cat's sitting positions has a name and a meaning.

Sometimes, a cat's sitting position can even reveal signs of illness. If your cat is sitting in an unusual way, or seems unwilling to sit, and you notice any abnormalities, consult a veterinarian.

When you can understand your cat's current feelings, communication becomes even more enjoyable. Just like with sitting positions, you can also understand your cat's feelings from the movements of its ears and whiskers.

Pay attention to your cat's casual gestures!

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