Among the various other odd questions we find ourselves asking Google at 2 AM, “Do cats fart?” seems to be a popular one. After caring for several cats of all ages over the years, I have learned the answer to this question.

Do Cats Fart?

When we consider a human fart we always think of the sound first. This is the reason so many people believe cats do not fart. The definition of “farting” is to omit gas from the anus. By definition, anything with an intestinal build up can release gas through the butt or mouth. Even birds can fart although it is not common because they have a very small (and fast) digestive tract. The answer is yes, cats indeed can fart!

Whoever Smelt It…

The common misconception of farting is that because there is no sound, there is no fart. The word fart is slang for “flatulence”. Flatulence is defined in the medical literature as “flatus expelled through the anus” or the “quality or state of being flatulent” Wikipedia The reason why you don’t hear the fart your kitty produces is because they have an open anus. It takes more pressure to make a sound. Unless your cat has an issue with diarrhea, you are not very likely to hear anything at all. Most cat farts are silent… Pew! Pew!

What Causes a Cat to Fart?

Common reasons that would cause a cat to fart are overeating, eating junk foods (human food), poor quality cat food, parasites, stomach bug (or flu), lactose digestive issues, obesity/overweight, and pregnancy. Some cats may fart if they over-play right after eating especially if they are younger. Kittens are known to be quite gassy their first 6 or so months.

How common is it? Well, more common than you think! Most of the time farting is seen (or rather smelled) most in kittens, seniors, and cats with digestive sensitivities.