If you've ever seen a group of cats gathered together, you might wonder: What is a group of cats called? While many people might assume that cats, being known for their independence, would not form groups in the same way that dogs do, there are specific terms for when cats do come together. In this article, we'll explore the different names used to describe groups of cats, as well as the behavior behind their social interactions.
1. A Group of Cats Is Called a "Clowder"
The most common term for a group of cats is a clowder. This word is often used in both formal and informal contexts to refer to a collection of cats. It might sound a little unusual, but it has a long history.
1.1 Origin of the Term "Clowder"
The term "clowder" comes from Middle English, where it was used to describe a "cluster" or "group" of cats. The word is believed to be derived from the Old French word "clouder", meaning to gather together or to group. While this term is not as commonly used in everyday language as some other animal group names (like a herd of cattle or a flock of birds), it remains the official term in both literary and zoological references.
1.2 What Is a Clowder?
A clowder refers to any group of cats, but it doesn’t specify the number of cats in the group. Whether it’s a few or many cats, when they are gathered together, they can be called a clowder.
For example:
- A family of domestic cats living together in a household could be referred to as a clowder.
- A group of stray or feral cats that roam together might also be referred to as a clowder.
2. Other Terms for Groups of Cats
While "clowder" is the most widely accepted term, there are a few other fun and less common terms that refer to a group of cats. These terms are often used in playful contexts or to describe specific situations.
2.1 A "Glaring" of Cats
Another term for a group of cats is a glaring. This term, while not as widely used, is often employed to describe a group of cats that seem to be staring at each other or something in the environment. It reflects the typical intensity and focus with which cats observe their surroundings.
- Example: "The group of stray cats sat in a glaring, watching the birds nearby."
This term likely refers to the famous "cat glare", a stare that many cats are known for when they are intent on something, whether it's prey or a human. A "glaring" of cats is not a common phrase but is sometimes used to describe a group of cats that appear to be watching or observing.
2.2 A "Pounce" of Cats
While not an officially recognized term, a pounce of cats might be used informally to describe a group of cats when they are in a playful mood. Cats are naturally playful animals, and a pounce refers to the way they often leap or jump on objects (or each other) in a playful manner.
- Example: "A pounce of kittens played together in the backyard."
This term, however, is used more humorously or creatively rather than as a formal term.
2.3 A "Clutter" of Cats
Another playful term that has appeared in some references is a clutter of cats. This term is generally used in a lighthearted or humorous way to describe a disorganized or chaotic group of cats, especially if they are causing a bit of a mess or moving about in a lively, unruly manner.
- Example: "There was a clutter of cats around the food dish, all trying to get their share."
While not an officially recognized term, "clutter" might be used by some to describe a group of cats in a fun, informal way.
3. Cats and Social Behavior: Do Cats Live in Groups?
You may be wondering, given cats' reputation for being independent, why do they even form groups? Unlike some animals that naturally live in large, coordinated social groups (like wolves or elephants), cats have a different approach to socialization, particularly in their domestic and feral environments.
3.1 Domestic Cats and Group Living
While domestic cats tend to be solitary by nature, they can still form groups when they feel comfortable and safe. In multi-cat households, for example, cats may form social hierarchies and live in harmony. These groups can consist of a mother cat and her kittens, or multiple adult cats living together in the same space.
However, cats are also known for having territorial instincts, and not all cats get along. Some cats prefer solitary living, and it’s not uncommon for one cat to feel uncomfortable or aggressive when introduced to a new feline companion.
3.2 Feral and Stray Cats
In the wild, feral cats often form groups, but these groups are typically not as tightly knit as those of pack animals like dogs. Feral cat groups (or colonies) are more about shared resources, such as food and shelter, than close-knit social bonds.
Feral cats will often live in loose associations where they maintain a territory but may interact with each other for mutual benefits like hunting and protection. A clowder of feral cats may be seen in urban areas where they gather around food sources, such as garbage dumps or near human settlements.
4. Other Common Group Names for Animals
While a clowder is the term for a group of cats, there are many fun and interesting names for groups of other animals. Here are a few:
- A pride of lions
- A pack of wolves
- A flock of birds
- A herd of elephants
- A pod of dolphins
- A murder of crows
As you can see, animals often have unique and sometimes playful terms that refer to groups, just like the term "clowder" for cats!
5. Conclusion: The Name for a Group of Cats
In summary, a group of cats is commonly referred to as a clowder. Other terms like a glaring or clutter of cats may also be used in informal or creative contexts, though "clowder" is the most widely recognized. Cats may not be as social as dogs, but they can still form groups, whether in a multi-cat household or as feral cat colonies. Despite their reputation for being independent, cats can be social creatures when the situation calls for it, and they do have their own unique ways of interacting in groups.
So, the next time you see a bunch of cats hanging out together, remember: you're looking at a clowder of cats!