All cat owners have experienced that sublime scene – their furry friend taking a nap and upon waking, they do a full body stretch that would cause the most ardent yoga teacher to be envious.
However, Why Cats Stretch is much more than a cute activity. This inherent action tells you some very important things about your cat’s physical condition, about his or her emotional condition, and about the relationship between your cat and you.
The Science of Cat Stretching
Why do cats lengthen when they lay their eyes on you? The solution is a mixture of biologically necessary and social conversation. During stretches, your cat is engaging several body systems, which have been in the offset after periods of rest.
Physical Advantages of Stretching
Stretching of cats plays a number of physiological purposes. Felines require to resume their circulation after 12-16 hours of daily sleeping. In case blood pressure decreases during rest, the cat muscles can be stretched to reversible effect whereby it causes an increase in blood flow to the tissues and other vital organs.
The movement is also able to eliminate the accumulated toxins such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid which build up during rest.
This is a process that is more or less a wake-up call to their body, making them ready to jump into action at any given moment; an instinct that was passed down by their wild ancestors who had to pounce on food at any moment they saw an opportunity.
Furthermore, cat stretches keep the joints and bodies flexible. Frequent stretches make muscles pliant and the joints lubricated so that they do not stiffen and facilitates fast agile movements that cats are known to excel in.
Why Are Cats So Flexible?
The exemplary character of stretchy cat bodies is brought about by anatomical peculiarities that make them different to the majority of other mammals.
Abnormal Spinal Formation
How are cats so flexible? They are secretly in their spine. The cats have as many as 53 vertebrae (including the tail) when only 33 vertebrae are present in humans. These are the vertebral bones with well elastic inter vertebral discs having additional cushioning which enables it to turn up to 180 degrees, which is three times more than the flexibility of human beings.
The spine vertebrae are also loosely attached unlike in other animals, which offers them a great possibility of movement. This design of structure allows the cats that stretch to twist their body in forms that appear impossible.
Distinct Skeletal Developments
The flexibility of cats is not just about their spine. The shoulder blades of a feline unlike those of a human being are only tied together by muscle and not by bone thus they are allowed to move with an incredible degree of freedom.
Their clavicles (collarbones) are very small, and they are not firmly fused with other bones, allowing cats to squeeze their chest and squeeze their way through any hole that is big enough to fit their head.
This miracle of anatomy is the reason why the bodies of the cats, when stretched, could take the shapes of a pretzel in the course of games or when they find a way to squeeze in tiny holes.
Common Types of Cat Stretches
Full-Body Extension (Downward Cat)
The most recognizable cat stretch is similar to the downward dog yoga. Cats stand on their front legs and push the back ones towards the rear, and arch the back. This stretching usually happens when a person gets up and assists to revive the circulation in the body.
Vertical Stretch
When your stretching cat gets on his hind legs and stretches in different directions against the furniture or scratching posts, the cat is a combination of stretching and territorial marking. The pheromones deposited by scent glands in their paws leave surfaces and at the same time, flex the shoulder, back and leg muscles.
Belly-Up Roll
It takes a lot of confidence that a cat would lie on its back and expose its belly. This pose indicates that they are in their own world where they feel perfectly secure – though they do not even invite the belly rubs!
Side Stretch
Cats that lie on their side usually pull the body somewhat so that the legs are stretched in different directions. This drowsy interval occurs at or following intervals of rest.
Why Does My Cat Stretch When She Sees Me?
The question is why does my cat stretch when I see her? This cute action has various implications:
Social Greeting
Cat stretching towards you is like a greetings. It is the way of your cat to recognise you and show that he/she is ready to communicate. Such gesture is a mixture of love and physical readiness to play or cuddles.
Sign of Trust and Comfort
When the cats that are in your company are stretching their tummies, which reveal their naked belly, they are showing their total safety. Stretching puts them in a momentary less defensive pose therefore by doing this close to you, they are certain that they are completely safe.
Preparation for Play
When your cat stretches and flexes seeing you, it is likely that the cat is warming up before the play. The movement is a way of warming their body as they await the process of chasing toys or other interactive games.
Territorial Marking
Cats use scent glands on their paws during stretches particularly on vertical stretches. This is why cats lengthen as you are viewed on occasion, is to do with marking you as belonging to their territory- a compliment in catish terms!
The Health Advantages of Regular Stretching
Maintains Muscle Tone
Frequent stretching of the body makes muscles flexible and strong, which is critical in the bursts of speed that cats are known to have. In short bursts, felines can achieve 30 mph, and in part take advantage of their capacity to extend their stride by means of the spine.
Prevents Joint Stiffness
Regular stretching of the cat-joints is also a good way of keeping them mobile, particularly in old cats who are prone to arthritis. The movement makes the joints lubricated and flexible.
Stress Relief
Stretching of cats has the effect of releasing endorphins, which are natural mood elevators that improve general well being. This is why cats are very happy after taking a good stretch.
Improves Circulation
How do I know if my cat is happy? Stretching on a regular basis is one of them. The habit enhances the distribution of oxygen to the body tissues and healthy blood circulation in the body.
When to Be Concerned About Stretching Behavior
Although cat stretching is not an unusual practice, some changes are worth a trip to the veterinary:
Excessive Stretching
When your cat suddenly cat stretches more often than usual, he/she may be uncomfortable. Such illnesses as stomach aches, arthritis, or spinal issues may make cats stretch and stretch in a bid to release the tension.
Reduced Stretching
The cats which are less than normal in their stretching may be a sign of pain, stiffness or weakness. Older cats with arthritic problems will not want to stretch because of the painfulness.
Stretching with Vocalization
A cat that stretches, meows or signs of distress during stretching should be seen by a veterinarian because it is possible that the cat is in pain.
Promoting Flexibility
Provide Adequate Space
Make sure that in your house there are spots where your cat stretches well and comfortably. The natural stretching behavior is facilitated by cat trees, scratching posts and open floor space.
Interactive Play
Frequent play will also have the natural effects of stretching cats in preparation and rest of activities. The interactive toys, laser pointers and feather wands encourage movement.
Post Placement in Strategy
Place scratching posts close to favourite sleep areas so as to promote vertical cat stretching immediately after naps.
Understanding Cat Flexibility in Context
The reason why cats are so flexible is still one of the most stunning evolutionary success stories ever by nature. Such plasticity again acted in favor of wild cats as predators and prey as well-not only did they successfully hunt, but it also helped them escape larger predators.
This flexibility also gives the cats the capability to clean the hard to reach places, which makes cats stay clean constantly, making them smell free and invisible to their prey and predators.
The domestic cats of today have the same amazing physical abilities despite the fact that majority do not hunt in order to survive. That long cat lying in your sunny window still has the same anatomical benefits as supported the survival of their predecessors in the wild.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does my cat stretch when she sees me?
A: Your cat extends itself at the sight of your meeting, your demonstration of trust, and physical preparation. It is an indication that they are relaxed to be around you and are willing to mingle.
Q: How are cats so flexible?
A: Cats have as many as 53 vertebrae with elastic inter vertebral discs, free floating clavicles and shoulders that are joined by nothing other than muscle. This special structure enables 180 rotation and a high degree of flexibility.
Q: Is excessive cat stretching normal?
A: Whereas normal stretching is good, when you stretch suddenly and show signs of discomfort, then this could be an indication of pain caused by such conditions as arthritis or abdominal problems. See your doctor.
Q: Do all cat stretches mean the same thing?
A: No. The different stretches have different purposes, full-body stretches are used to promote circulation, vertical stretches are used to mark territory and belly-up stretch is used to show trust. When you are reading your cat, context is important.
Q: How do I know if my cat is happy based on stretching?
A: Smooth, far in-between moments with your company usually signify satisfaction and safety. Cats that are happy relax freely, they do not show strain, and are likely to complement a stretch with a purr or slow blinking.
Q: Why do cats stretch so much after sleeping?
A: Post-nap stretching improves the circulation of blood and helps the muscles to wake up, position the spine correctly, and the body to be ready to get active after rest time. It is like humans stretching after sitting or lying down on the long periods of time.
Q: Should I encourage my cat to stretch more?
A: Yes! Offer cat trees, scratching posts and play with them on a regular basis. These exercises are a natural way of stretching and maintaining the physical and mental wellbeing of your cat.
