The Fat, Bald Cat That’s Becoming a Body Positivity Icon

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This is a heart-warming story about a cat who is extremely comfortable in their skin. A hairless Sphynx cat named Amsterdam has recently become an internet sensation for his ability to feel good about his body. The cat has become a viral sensation for his ability to plop his protruding belly out wherever he feels. Amsterdam has now inspired countless people to feel good in their own skin as well. Furless cats tend to catch a lot of flak for their unique look. They have a history of being discarded and ignored, unlike their peers with fur. It is nice that furless cats are starting to gain acceptance in the mainstream. The rapid ascension of Amsterdam is just more evidence that these cats deserve to feel comfortable in their own skin. Amsterdam’s complete lack of self-consciousness makes him an icon for humans and animals alike. It is important to feel good about yourself!

The cat first started swirling on the social media site Instagram, where owner Jana Martinka would regularly post photos of videos of him in unique and silly poses. One of the posts that is getting the most attention is a photo of the cat sitting with his belly protruding out like the Buddha! Users have been quick to note the similarities between the vaunted religious figure and the feline, causing the cat to be spread far and wide throughout the internet. This comes as a surprise to everyone, except perhaps Amsterdam himself, who is used to drawing attention. Though it seems unlikely that even he can realize the positive impact he is having across the world. He is quickly becoming a body positivity icon and sharing a message of embracing and loving yourself. Some have even compared the feline to the pop star Lizzo, who has become famous for sharing her message of self-love.

There have been many recent movements towards body positivity and fat acceptance. Though these movements have not come without their own controversies. Trainer Jillian Michaels recently criticized Lizzo for her weight stating, “Why are we celebrating her body? Why does it matter? Why aren’t we celebrating her music” continuing that “it isn’t gonna be awesome if she gets diabetes.” This set off a firestorm of criticism on the internet and it seems that Michaels has walked back the comments in recent days. It shows that this topic is currently a tinder box in modern culture with different people fiercely arguing their positions. It is nice to take a break from body controversies to honor a chubby little feline who is loving every second of his newfound fame. It seems that Amsterdam has become the new face of the body positivity movement.

Amsterdam not only has love for his own body, but for people as well. His owner regularly shows his unique figure off for her followers on Instagram. His favorite spot is to be perched near his infrared heater, which perhaps accounts for some of the strange and funny poses that his owner regularly snaps. It is not often that you see a cat stretched out and looking like a deity to pay tribute to. This is another reason that Amsterdam has caught the hearts and minds of so many all over the world. The body positivity movement encourages people to feel good in their own skin, there is no better icon than Amsterdam to lay out and show people that there is nothing wrong with flaunting what you have. This has definitely been a feel good story to start 2020 off right.

Though it does seem true that Amsterdam also has his own detractors. Some think that the cat should not pose in this manner and should lose some of the extra cushioning. It is sad to think that these people spend more time criticizing the little kitty then celebrating his delicious curves. The good news is that Amsterdam is in great health and should have a long and healthy life ahead of him. The cat is still only 6 years old, so we can look forward to many more years of poses and lounging from our new favorite Instagram account. It is not every day that a singular cat can change the entire dialog of a conversation. But, with his unique look and voracious appetite, it is clear that this is no ordinary cat. Instead of spending time critiquing, perhaps the naysayers would get more joy of out just appreciating the cat for who he is.

Most of all Amsterdam reminds us that there is nothing wrong with feeling good in your own skin. It is important to remember that this is the main message that this furious feline intends to impart on us. It is ok to have a unique look and there is no shame in showing it to the world. Amsterdam doesn’t fit the traditional standards of feline beauty, but this doesn’t phase him. He is more than ready to flop his belly in front of a fan and sit upright. His unique look and nonchalant attitude are the main reasons he has gone viral in the first place. It is important to remember all of the lessons that this wonderful cat has imparted on all of us. We could all use a little more of his confidence and carefree attitude.

Regardless of what you think of the body positivity movement, there is nothing wrong with taking a few minutes to enjoy the love that has surrounded Amsterdam. He is going to continue to inspire people all around the globe that it is OK to feel good in their skin. It’s impressive that this little cat could have such a big impact around the entire world. We only hope that he will continue to feel good and inspire us for years to come. This feline truly embodies the phrase ‘self-love’. Something we should all think about in the coming weeks and months.