Do cats have a navel? - briefly
Yes, cats do have a navel. It is located on their belly, typically near where their hind legs meet their body.
Do cats have a navel? - in detail
Cats, like many other mammals, do indeed possess a navel. This small indentation is located on their belly, typically between the hind legs and closer to the tail end. The presence of a navel in cats is a result of their developmental process as fetuses. During gestation, the umbilical cord connects the developing kitten to its mother, providing vital nutrients and oxygen. Once the kitten is born, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving behind what we know as the navel or belly button.
In cats, the navel may appear as a small, sometimes barely noticeable indentation due to their short hair and the placement of the belly button on the underside of their body. Unlike humans, cats do not have an outie or innie; their navels are usually quite subtle. It is also worth noting that the navel in cats serves no functional purpose after birth, unlike during fetal development when it was crucial for survival.
Over time, the navel may become less visible as the cat grows and develops. In some cases, especially if a cat has longer hair, the navel might be completely hidden from view. Regardless of its visibility, every cat is born with a navel, which remains a permanent feature throughout their lives.