It’s perfectly fine to call a group of cats simply that, a group. I mean, I personally wouldn’t have a problem with just calling them cats.
But you’re here for the official name of a group of cats right?
Well…
A Group Of Cats Is Called A Clowder
There you have it, a group of cats is called a Clowder. By definition, “Clowder” literally translates to, “a group or cluster of cats”.
No surprise there… If you’ve never heard that word before, don’t stress, me either.
A group of cats can also go by the name of glaring, pounce, or funnily enough, destruction. Whilst a litter of kittens can go by kindle.
The Origin Of The Word Clowder
It is believed the origin of the word dates back to the late 17th century and originates from the word clodder, which basically means to clot.
Clowder is referred to as a group consisting of more than 3 cats. Personally, I think “destruction of cats” is a much more appropriate term, let alone accurate in a sense.
The scientific name for cats is in fact, Felis catus however, whatever you call them, I’m sure the ‘clowder’ has no preference.
Here are some other names a group of cats could be called.
- A cluster of cats
Typically used for a group of cats the same size.
- Destruction of cats
Usually refers to feral or wild cats.
- A clutter of cats
A variant of clowder, clutter is another suitable word for feral cats.
- Nuisance
This name applies to house cats. Known to be the common nuisance in neighborhoods.
- Glaring of cats
- Pounce of cats
Individual Cat Names
Individual cats can also be identified by names. Some of these names depend on their sex and whether they are spayed or neutered.
Here are a few names individual cats can go by.
Tomcat:
Is the name given to an unneutered male cat.
Queen:
Fitting I know, this name is given to an unspayed female cat Molly:
Name that’s given to a spayed female.
Gib:
A suitable name for a neutered male.
For a list of cool cat names click here.
Do Cats Prefer To Live In Groups?
It may come as no surprise that cats prefer to live a solitary life. This doesn’t mean that they can’t or don’t live in groups though. Feral cats are known to live as a clowder, see what I did there.
For us it’s a little confusing, being social is part of our nature, therefore living in groups or families is perfectly normal for us. The same can be said for pack animals such as dogs, who in fact share many of our social beliefs.
Because cats are perfectly fine living on their own, they have learned to be very self-sufficient. This can lead to many people thinking that cats are untrainable, but this isn’t always the case.
They don’t always see the need to please their owners, but cats over time can definitely be trained. Head on over to the article I wrote for tips on how to train your cat.
If you already have pets and are introducing a new cat into the home there are a few things you can do to smooth the process. It’s important to note that kittens and adult cats socialize in an entirely different way.
Introducing A Kitten Into Your Home
When introducing a kitten into your home, do so slowly especially if you have just adopted a kitty.
Let them sit in their carrier in an open room, keep noise to a minimum and talk to them softly so they know you’re there. If you have other pets, control them and keep them calm around the kitten.
Eventually, kitties should be let out of their carrier and free to explore on their own. Let the kitten come up and smell everyone in their own time. The same goes for other pets.
First impressions should be calm, then turn to light play once they feel comfortable.
Kittens really adjust quickly to new environments and pets. Kitty will be everyone’s best friend in no time.
The process for adult cats is the same, ie: everyone should be calm and quiet. The biggest thing here is time, it can take some time for an adult cat to adjust to its new environment.
They will also already have their own opinions on people and other animals. That being said, over time even the most stubborn cats can warm up to their new home and friends.
Never force your cat into an uncomfortable situation. This will only make things worse and they could end up resenting you.
Pro Tip: Let any introductions be on their terms, otherwise, you’ll do more damage than good.
Cats are very capable of learning to live in a group given the time to learn how to do so. Let them find their feet within the group.
They’re pretty good at figuring it all out in the end.
If you already have pets and are introducing a new cat into the home there are a few things you can do to smooth the process. It’s important to note that kittens and adult cats socialize in an entirely different way.
Conclusion On What Is A Group Of Cats Called.
Well, there you have it. Next time you see a group of cats you can point to your friends and say, “check out that clowder”. Okay seriously, I don’t expect anyone to do that anytime soon, but you never know.
If you’re looking for tips on how to keep a kitty in check, you can head on over to the article on how to discipline your cat the correct way.
