16/12/2025
Interesting fact on big cheeked toms
Why Do Tom Cats Have Those Big, Irresistible Cheeks?
Ever notice how some unneutered male cats have those huge “tomcat cheeks”? They’re called stud jowls, and they’re not just for looks- they’re actually thick pads of skin and fat that develop from testosterone.
These jowls act like built-in armor, protecting them during fights with other males over territory, food, and females. It’s adorable to us… but it exists because tom cats spend their lives battling just to survive.
And as cute as those big cheeks are, tomcats really need to be fixed-
here’s why:
They roam long distances looking for females, which means getting lost, hit by cars, or ending up somewhere unsafe.
They fight constantly, which leads to wounds, abscesses, painful infections, and the spread of FeLV/FIV.
They spray (a lot) to mark territory- which is why neighbors often get frustrated with outdoor intact males.
They make more kittens… which means more homeless cats struggling outside.
When toms are neutered, the hormones drop, the cheeks gradually shrink, and most settle into calmer, happier lives. They’re safer, healthier, and so much easier for communities to live alongside.
And speaking of big-cheeked boys…
This handsome guy is Gus.
He lived as a free-roaming tom, constantly fighting and dodging neighbors who weren’t fans of his “naughty” behavior. When we finally trapped him, he had badly infected eyes and scratches all over his face- the typical signs of a tomcat’s hard life.
But once he got treatment, good food, and a soft bed? Gus made it VERY clear he prefers lounging inside and living spoiled over fighting for survival outside.
Big cheeks might be cute- but a safe, neutered, loved tomcat is even cuter!!
Got a big-cheek tom of your own? Drop a photo or tell us about him in the comments!
