Judy Taylor
Prosperity bulge, weak connective tissue, or fat apron? Some cats have a stately pot belly – and cat owners rightly wonder where they come from. You can find all the surprising information about the so-called Urwampe in cats here.
Why Some Cats Look as if They Have a Flabby Belly
- A small pot belly is quite normal in cats;
- It serves to protect the lower abdomen;
- It also makes the animal flexible and agile;
- However, too much-accumulated fat in the abdominal area is unhealthy.
Potbelly is Nothing to Worry About
If the cat develops a potbelly, cat owners tend to be concerned: Is this an expression of the onset of obesity? Is the animal getting enough exercise and the right food? Is the “reserve skin” even a symptom of an illness? There is no need to worry. Because, as a rule, it is not an anatomical deviation.
A small hanging stomach in cats is quite normal. It is called a primordial pouch and even fulfills a specific anatomical purpose. With puberty, excess skin forms between the cat’s hind legs. This is filled with fat and swings back and forth when you walk. This often gives the impression of being a prosperous woman due to being overweight.
Anatomical protection
In reality, however, the reserved skin serves to protect the abdomen. The abdomen is one of the most sensitive parts of the body in cats. There they need additional protection. In a fight, for example, cats kick the opponent’s stomach. Not only is the force of the kick dangerous, but also the sharp claws. The potbelly protects the cat from serious injuries.
More flexibility
Another advantage of the skin flap is that it is particularly elastic. The fanny pack makes the cat even more agile and flexible. She can stretch more easily and jump further and higher. If the abdomen were tight and tight, it would be less flexible. The elasticity is comparable to the stretch content of jeans pants.
Pay More Attention After Castration
Cat owners often observe that the abdominal flap becomes larger after neutering. It is quite possible. Castration changes the hormonal balance in the organism. The connective tissue becomes weaker and the body tends to store fat. Neutered cats are generally more prone to overweight than those who have not been neutered. In this case, it is advisable to keep a close eye on the tummy. It can be overweight. Excessive accumulation of fat in the abdomen is not healthy for cats, as it is for humans.
