Cats are interesting characters that can surprise us with their personalities and behaviors, no matter how well we think that we know them. What’s fun is following trends that cats set without realizing what they are doing. One trending example is cat shrimping. This entails catching your cat curled up in the shape of a “shrimp” while they’re lounging or sleeping. Basically, the cat is curled up into a cute ball, but their legs are extended beyond their heads, creating an almost “purrfect” replication of a shrimp—at least before it’s been butterflied and seasoned. Here’s what you should know with examples of cat shrimping behavior.

Cat Shrimping Is Popular on Social Media

Whatever social media sites you utilize, chances are that you’ll find plenty of posts related to cat shrimping if you just search for it. The idea is basic: a picture of a cat curled up in such a way that they look like a big ol’ shrimp!

The idea of cat shrimping seems to be in the eye of the beholder, as you’ll find posts of cats curled up on stairs and in other places where they don’t really look like shrimp at all. Still, the sentiment is the same, and one can always glean the intent of a cat “shrimping” no matter how they happen to be curled up.

Examples of Cat Shrimping on Social Media

Some social media websites feature cat shrimping photos more than others, but no matter the site, you can search for terms like “cat curled with legs out” or simply “cat curled up” to find cat shrimping photos that are not tagged as such. Here are examples that should help point you in the right direction.

Instagram

This photo offers the perfect example of cat shrimping. This beautiful white and orange tabby is curled up to create an almost perfect replica of a shrimp. Their head is tucked down toward their knees, their legs extended past their head, and the rest of the body is curled up to accommodate the position.

This is a classic photo of a “cat shrimping.” The legs are extended, the head is tucked in, and there are no eyes to be seen. What more could you ask for when it comes to cuteness? The adorable bedding definitely adds to the ambiance, but the posture is where it’s at.

This dark-colored kitty looks extremely relaxed yet perfectly posed as a “shrimp.” The cat’s coloring adds an extra dimension and mimics the textured look that shrimp tend to have before they are cooked.

Twitter (X)

🍤Shrimping at its best!🍤. #kittyloafmonday #shrimp #CatsOfTwitter #gingerboy #cats pic.twitter.com/2luSFIXGoY

— ☀️Kittysue Gang☀️ (@susangr144) July 5, 2021

As the caption states, this is “cat shrimping at its best.” This kitty seems to enjoy using their front legs to curl into this curled yet extended pose. They seem to be using the back of the couch for extra support, too.

Shrimping 😸 #cat #CatBoxSunday #love #cute #CatsofTwitter #caturday #photography #FF #sundayselfie #Dreamersporch pic.twitter.com/Ak5UOjS4Zd

— Misty (@mistythemoggie) January 31, 2016

This example of cat shrimping includes extended arms, which doesn’t completely mimic the way that a shrimp looks. However, the pose does represent the general look of a shrimp, so it still counts as part of the viral trend.

Despite the confined space, this is cat shrimping! The box provides just enough room for a cat to curl up for a nap, naturally making them take a pose that makes them look similar to a shrimp. The cat’s longer hair takes away from the overall visual impact, but the pose is still there.

Some Social Media Sites Don’t Feature Cat Shrimping

Some social media sites, like Facebook, don’t feature “cat shrimping” posts even when you search for them. You can try searching for things like “curled-up cat” if you can’t find results when searching for “cat shrimping.” There is always room for more cat shrimping photos on the Internet, so don’t hesitate to post any that you happen to capture of your own feline family member!

A Recap

Cat shrimping is simply a form of sleeping or resting for cats that mimics the look of shrimp. This curled position is a normal and comfortable resting posture for many cats, often used when they feel safe and relaxed. In some cases, cats may also tuck tightly in this way to conserve body heat. You’ve been provided with a few examples that give you a good idea of what the pose looks like. If you catch your cat “shrimping,” don’t hesitate to post a pic on social media, as your kitty is sure to get plenty of attention!

See also:

• Does Your Cat Listen to You? Feline Behavior Explained
• 10 Top SNL Sketches With Cats: Feline Funnies

Featured Image Credit: asadykov, Shutterstock