What is a chonky cat? The truth of the chonk

The word ‘chonky’ has become a well-used term in recent years, specifically across the world wide web in relation to cats. Yes, this is a made-up word, but as of 2023, it can be found in all the official English language dictionaries. So, what does chonky mean? Is it the same as a chonk? And what the fluff is a chonky cat?

Together, we’ll dive into the mysterious world of chonky cats, where this edible word came from, how to spot a chonk cat and understand more about the serious side of chonk - is a chonk cat a healthy cat? Chonks away!

What does ‘chonky’ mean?

Okay, so, Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines ‘chonky’ or ‘chonk’ as a “plump or chubby especially in an endearing way —usually used of an animal”. Don’t the best articles start with a dictionary quote? Anyway, it was apparently first used back in 2004 which coincides with the advent of YouTube (makes sense) and Facebook. Basically, it’s an alteration to the word ‘chunky’ but made to sound cuter and more ‘cat-like’, similar to ‘chimken’ or ‘floof’ (both of which are also officially recognized as real words, we may add).

What is a chonk or chonky cat?

Now we’re all on the same chonky page, let’s examine the chonk or chonky cat. As you may have worked out, it refers to a rounded, overweight cat. Since about 2017 or 2018, there has been a steep rise in social media groups and videos adoring and admiring fat or chonky cats. The increase in chonk appreciation societies has led to millions of people posting and writing about their own chonk.

By the way, it’s worth mentioning that a normal or healthy-sized cat can have a large or excessive primordial pouch, making them appear chonky. These are not true chonks as they often lack the roundness cat chonk is admired for.

A serious note on chonky cats

While chonky cats are an Internet sensation and are considered extra cute and cuddly by many, there is a serious side to it. A healthy cat should weigh around 4kg or 9lbs, but this will depend on their size and breed - a Maine Coon will have a higher average healthy weight than a domestic shorthair. This trend has led to many people purposefully overfeeding their pets making them into obese cats, just to have something to post on social media.

Obesity in cats (like humans) is a very serious health issue. Not only can it shorten their life expectancy by half (adult fat cats often won’t make it past 10 years old) but it can cause kitties a lot of pain. Mobility issues, kidney and liver failure, cancer, and breathing problems are but a few illnesses caused by being overweight.

There’s no amazing post or picture worth the cost of your cat’s health and well-being. Overfeeding or intentionally increasing your cat’s weight to be chonky is a form of abuse - it is purposefully causing harm to your pet with absolutely no benefits for them.

The cat chonk scale

To make sure you’re kitty is a ideal weight, make sure it is clearly tracked by their vet. They’ll be able to offer the best tips on dieting and keeping your feline fit and healthy. But, in the meantime, there is a guide you can use: The cat chonk scale.

The cat chonk scale is a very rough estimate of what an average cat looks like when it is underweight, overweight, or just right! While you should still seek out veterinary advice if you’re concerned about your cat’s weight, this offers an indication of how you might be doing with regard to their feeding and exercise schedule.

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