What Is the Primordial Pouch in Cats?

Cats are common house pets, and no matter the breed or environment some cats share common traits due to heredity. One of those is the primordial pouch, sometimes referred to as "spay sway" by owners who notice it once the cat has been spayed or neutered. While many owners may worry that the drooping stomach affects a cats' healths, primordial pouches are quite natural, and it's something that many cats have.

  1. Primordial Pouch

    • The primordial pouch is located on a cat's belly and it has the appearance of a loose flap of skin that's similar to what you'd expect if the cat had been overweight and had then lost weight. Also compared to a deflated balloon, the primordial pouch swings slightly as a cat walks. Sometimes it appears just after spaying or neutering, though that isn't required for the pouch to become noticeable.

    Purpose

    • The primordial pouch is a multi-functional flap. It provides a little extra protection against kicks, which are common during cat fights as a cat will try and rake with it's rear claws. In wild cats, the ancestors of domesticated felines, this pouch appears to be present to provide extra room in case the animal has the opportunity to eat a large meal and the stomach needs to expand. It's also been said that this stomach pouch allows the cat to bend and expand, allowing for faster running and higher jumping.

    Breed Requirement

    • Far from being a defect, the primordial pouch is actually required for some cat breeds. Cat breeds that are closer to the wild ancestor than other domestic breeds like the Bengal have the primordial pouch listed as one of the breed statistics. Other breeds like the Egyptian Mau and and Serengeti cat also have the primordial pouch as proof of their close ties to the wild history of felines.

    Misconceptions

    • Some owners may feel that a primordial pouch is a problem, or that something is wrong with their cats. Perhaps the skin is becoming loose after weight loss, or in some cases it may look like the cat isn't eating enough due to the pouch. Always consult with a veterinarian and ask about the state of your pet's health. If there is a problem you should have a more in depth look than just stroking your cat's belly and deciding it's over weight.