What does "dora" in "dora-neko" mean? The difference from "nora-neko" and surprising facts

"Dora-neko" (stray cat/thieving cat)—the term immediately brings to mind that iconic national anime. While it has a somewhat cute feel to it, it also carries a slightly wild ring, doesn't it?

What exactly is a "dora-neko"?

In this article, the Poponeko editorial team—who wants to know everything there is to know about cats—has looked into the meaning behind the "dora" in "dora-neko," the difference between it and a stray cat, and even some surprising facts.

What does the "dora" in "dora-neko" mean?

While there are various theories, it seems the "dora" in "dora-neko" shares the same origin as the "dora" in "dora-musuko" (prodigal son). Looking into the origins of "dora" revealed some interesting facts.

"Dora" comes from the instrument "gong"

The most prominent theory is that "dora" is derived from the musical instrument "dora" (gong).

A gong is a percussion instrument consisting of a metal disk that is suspended and struck with a mallet. It is used in various settings, such as Buddhist memorial services, orchestras, and Kabuki performances.

Running out of money is sometimes jokingly referred to as "striking the bell," which was then rephrased as "striking the gong (dora)." Therefore, the phrase "striking the gong (dora)" is sometimes used to mean indulging in debauchery, squandering wealth, or wasting money.

In other words, a "dora-musuko" (prodigal son) refers to a son who sponges off his parents and wastes their money.

The theory that "dora-musuko" evolved from "douraku-musuko" (hedonistic son)—someone who doesn't work and indulges in pleasures—also makes sense.

The relationship between a prodigal son and a dora-neko

Then, what is the meaning of "dora-neko"?

As you know, cats have lived alongside humans since ancient times as masters at catching mice. However, some cats would choose not to do their job of catching mice and instead survive by stealing human food.

Derived from the prodigal son who squanders his parents' wealth, it seems the term "dora-neko" was coined to refer to cats that steal human food.

What is the difference between a stray cat and a dora-neko?

"Dora-neko" and "nora-neko" (stray cat) both refer to cats without owners, but there is a distinction when considering the origins of the words.

What is a nora-neko (stray cat)?

A nora-neko is a cat that has no owner and lives outdoors. Many of these cats have strong wariness and territorial instincts.

What is a dora-neko?

Among stray cats, this term refers specifically to those that act "badly" toward humans, such as by sneaking into houses to steal food, rummaging through trash, or sharpening their claws on garden items.

The "dora-neko who snatched a fish" from the theme song of the anime "Sazae-san" is the perfect embodiment of this image.

Other terms to know: "Community cats" and "Feral cats"

As rescue cat activities have become more widely known, terms like "community cat" and "feral cat" have also become common.

Let's take a look at what kind of cats these are.

First, let's understand "rescue cats"

"Rescue cats" are ownerless cats that have been taken in by animal welfare organizations or volunteers for various reasons, such as being abandoned or injured.

They spend time temporarily in shelters where they receive health check-ups, vaccinations, and, if necessary, spay or neuter surgeries. Afterward, they are listed for adoption to find new owners.

What is a community cat?

A cat that is captured, spayed or neutered, and then returned to its original location to be managed by the local community is called a "community cat." As a mark that they have been sterilized, a small part of their ear is clipped to resemble a cherry blossom petal, which is why they are also called "Sakura cats."

This activity is known as TNR and is one of the rescue activities carried out with the goal of preventing the population of ownerless cats from increasing and reducing euthanasia.

What is a feral cat (noneko)?

A feral cat (noneko) is a domestic cat that has returned to the wild. They live in places far from human habitation, such as mountains, fields, and forests, surviving by hunting small animals like mice and birds.

Surprising facts about "dora-neko"

Unraveling the term "dora-neko" reveals unexpected facts and the environment surrounding cats.

The "dora" in Doraemon comes from dora-neko

The cat-type robot "Doraemon" from the other national anime is said to have been named by taking the "dora" from "dora-neko" and combining it with the traditional Japanese name suffix "emon."

Furthermore, it is said that the character trait of him loving dorayaki (bean-paste pancake) was decided because his name is "Doraemon."

Incidentally, there are theories about the "dora" in dorayaki: "because the shape and color resemble a gong" or "because it was originally baked on a gong instead of a griddle."

Dora-neko don't necessarily love fish

Cats are carnivores. They prefer to eat meat, which is a source of protein. You might have the image that cats love fish, but that is actually a perception unique to Japan.

Since the Japanese diet historically included more fish than meat, it is said that cats living with humans also started eating fish. Many cats do enjoy katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) or tuna, too.

However, giving raw fish to cats is a concern, and items like shrimp, crab, octopus, squid, and abalone can be harmful to a cat's health. Be careful around the dining table.

Summary

The term "dora-neko" isn't always used in a negative sense; it can also be used affectionately for a mischievous, gluttonous, or cute cat.

"Dora-neko" is a word born from our long-standing relationship with cats. Thinking about its meaning and origins also brings attention to the environment and issues surrounding cats.

We hope this serves as an opportunity for you to learn more about cats.