Buzz
Some philosophical questions can infiltrate even the most focused minds. Do aliens walk among us? Can we quantify a soul? Do cats pass gas?
Though this may not have been a topic of concern for some of history’s finest thinkers, it absolutely warrants an answer. And unlike some profound inquiries, this one has a clear response: Yes, they do. We simply don’t often hear it. 'If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?' veterinarian Mickila Collins told Chewy. 'I can’t claim I’ve ever heard a cat fart, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. I definitely believe cats can!'
Veterinarians, who sometimes find themselves answering the most absurd questions about animals passing gas, confirm that cats have all the necessary biological components for farting: a gastrointestinal system and an anus. When air builds up from deep breaths or gut bacteria, a smelly cloud can escape from their behinds. Smell a kitten’s rear sometime, and you'll be convinced that cats do indeed fart.
The absence of audible flatulence in cats is likely due to their unique eating habits. Unlike dogs, who tend to gulp down their meals, cats usually eat more slowly, which prevents excess air from building up in their digestive system. If you notice your cat passing gas more than usual, it's a good idea to seek advice from a veterinarian. As Dr. Zac Pilossoph explained to Parade Pets, 'Sometimes cats can experience bloating, discomfort, and unpleasant-smelling gas. Excessive or foul-smelling gas may indicate a gastrointestinal issue.'
Indeed, cats do fart. But much like everything else they do, they handle it with quiet grace and subtlety. Keep that in mind the next time you're tempted to blame the dog.
