Cat owners often observe their felines tucking their paws under their bodies, sitting like an old man from the north in a cotton-padded jacket during winter. In fact, cats are animals with poorly developed sweat glands, unlike dogs, whose sweat glands are primarily located in their paw pads and are hairless. When it’s cold, the exposed paw pads can feel chilly, so cats, sensitive to temperature, habitually tuck their paws under to keep warm. This action is indeed similar to that of old farmers and women in the fields, but its main purpose is to help maintain body temperature.
At this point, some cat owners might ask: “My cat still tucks its paws under even in the high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius, is this also for insulation?” Of course not. Actually, there is another reason why cats tuck their paws under – it’s a sign that they feel very secure around you. The action of tucking paws under is not conducive to evasion or hunting. When a cat tucks its paws, it indicates that the surrounding environment is safe, and they are not on guard. If a cat is purring while tucking its paws, it means they are content and at ease.
However, if a cat spends the whole day tucking and squatting, and ignores you when you try to play with it, there might be a cause for concern. This could very well be a sign of the cat feeling unwell. Cats have a high tolerance for pain and will not cry out even if they are injured or in pain. Squatting with paws tucked is usually a sign of enduring pain. If a cat maintains this posture for a long time and also appears to be in an abnormal mental state, it is necessary to pay attention and it would be best to take it to a pet hospital for a check-up.
Original article by KPTer, if reproduced, please cite the source: https://www.kaipet.com/en/cats-tuck-paws-underneath-warmth-deeper-meanings
