What Is a Group of Cats Called? The Terms Clowder, Glaring, Colony, Kindle and More

When you spot a handful of cats curled together, you might wonder what to call that gathering. While cats are often thought of as solitary, they can form social groups, and each has its own name in the English language.

Clowder: The Most Common Term

A clowder is the standard word for three or more cats that live together. The term appears in major dictionaries and is believed to derive from the word "clutter," a fitting description for cats piling into a sunny spot or couch. Because the word is well‑documented, it’s the safest choice when describing a domestic group of cats.

Other Designations for Feline Groups

1. Clutter – Used informally when a group of cats seems chaotic or disorganized.
2. Glaring – Refers to a cluster of cats that are wary or unfamiliar with one another, often seen in mixed‑breed households.
3. Colony – The term for a community of feral or semi‑feral cats that share a territory and cooperate for food and protection.
4. Kindle – A group of young cats or kittens that are not littermates. A litter is a set of kittens born to the same mother.

Feral vs. Domestic Groups

In urban or wild settings, feral cats establish colonies where they maintain a loose social hierarchy. Female cats often collaborate to raise kittens, while males may enter and leave based on resources. Domestic cats, in contrast, may not exhibit strict pack behavior, but with time they can form clowders that groom, play, and sleep together.

Social Dynamics of Cats

Cats communicate through body language, vocalizations, and scent marking. Even a seemingly independent cat will use these cues to signal affiliation, territory, or affection. Groups—whether a clowder, a glaring, or a colony—demonstrate these behaviors in subtle ways, reinforcing bonds and ensuring collective safety.

So next time you observe a cluster of felines lounging in a yard or alley, you can confidently describe it as a clowder. If the cats seem suspicious of each other, the term glaring fits. And if they’re a mixed group of kittens, a kindle is the appropriate label.

Our article was crafted with AI assistance and subsequently verified and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor to ensure accuracy and clarity.