CAT position: What it is, how it works & why it changes orgasms
Part of our comprehensive Sex Positions Guide – the ultimate overview of all positions for more intense experiences.
CAT Position – the technique that changes female orgasm during penetration
The CAT position – short for Coital Alignment Technique – is the only sex position that allows for simultaneous penetration and clitoral stimulation: without free hands, without a vibrator, through a single change in body position. A minimal adjustment to the missionary position – with an effect that many couples describe as a turning point.
This guide shows how the technique works, what variations exist – and why choosing the right material makes all the difference.
Table of Contents
- What is the CAT position – and what does Coital Alignment Technique mean?
- The science behind CAT: why it works
- Step-by-step: How to properly perform the CAT technique
- CAT variations: from beginner to advanced
- CAT vs. Missionary position: the crucial difference
- Who is the CAT position ideal for?
- Penis Sleeve in the CAT position: Friction on a new level
- Sex Grinder as a CAT enhancer
- CAT for Gay Couples & Femboys
- The most common mistakes – and how to avoid them
- FAQ
What is the CAT position – and what does Coital Alignment Technique mean?
CAT stands for Coital Alignment Technique. The term was coined in 1988 by American sex therapist Edward Eichel and describes a specific variation of the missionary position with altered body alignment.
In German-speaking countries, the technique is also referred to as CAT-Position, Cat-Sexstellung (Cat Sex Position) or simply Cat in Sex. All terms refer to the same thing: a missionary position variation where the penetrating person is shifted upwards, allowing for simultaneous penetration and clitoral rubbing.
The core difference in one sentence: Instead of moving up-and-down, the penetrating person moves back-and-forth – and sits higher than usual.
The science behind CAT: why it works
The Coital Alignment Technique is one of the few sex positions that has been scientifically studied. Edward Eichel's study (1988, Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy) compared the standard missionary position with the CAT technique. Result: women who used the technique achieved orgasm significantly more often during penetration – and described it as more intense.
Why does it work physiologically?
The clitoris is not a small point – it is an extensive internal organ, of which the visible part is only the tip. The internal crura run along the vaginal wall. In the standard missionary position, these structures are barely stimulated. In the CAT position, the following happens simultaneously:
- External stimulation – the base rubs directly against the clitoral glans with every back-and-forth movement
- Internal stimulation – the altered angle stimulates the internal clitoral crura through the front wall
- Synchronized rhythm – both stimulations happen in the same movement rhythm, which multiplies the intensity
The result is a so-called blended orgasm – an orgasm that combines clitoral and vaginal stimulation. Many women describe it as deeper and longer-lasting than purely clitoral orgasms.
Step-by-step: How to properly perform the CAT technique
Starting position:
Begin in the classic missionary position: receiving person on their back, penetrating person on top.
Step 1: Shift upwards
The penetrating person shifts their entire body approx. 5–10 cm upwards – do not lean forward, but move the body as a unit upwards. The pelvis is now higher than the receiving person's pelvis.
Step 2: Make contact
The base is now directly on the receiving person's clitoris. This is the crucial contact point of the CAT position. If this contact is not felt: shift a little further up.
Step 3: Change movement
No more up-and-down movement. Instead: back-and-forth rocking – like a seesaw. The penetrating person pushes the pelvis forward (clitoral pressure increases) and pulls it back (penetration depth changes). Both movements stimulate simultaneously.
Step 4: Synchronize rhythm
The receiving person moves their pelvis in opposition – upwards when the penetrating person pushes forward. This counter-movement simultaneously enhances clitoral contact and penetration depth.
Tempo and pressure:
| Variable | Recommendation | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Tempo | Slow to medium | Too fast interrupts clitoral contact |
| Pressure | Even, not too strong | Constant contact more important than intensity |
| Amplitude | Small (2–5 cm) | Large movements lose the contact point |
| Breathing rhythm | Synchronized | Increases emotional and physical intensity |
CAT variations: from beginner to advanced
1. Standard CAT (Beginner)
As described above – penetrating person shifted 5–10 cm upwards, rocking motion. Ideal for first-time use.
2. CAT with pillow (recommended)
A pillow under the receiving person's buttocks lifts the pelvis. This significantly facilitates clitoral contact and reduces the demands on body control. The simplest upgrade for the CAT technique.
3. CAT with bent legs
The receiving person bends their legs and places their feet flat on the mattress. This tilts the pelvis upwards – similar to a pillow, but with more control. The receiving person can actively adjust the angle.
4. Reverse CAT
The receiving person lies on top – similar to the cowgirl position, but leaning forward. The clitoris rubs against the body of the person lying beneath. More control for the receiving person over pressure and rhythm.
5. CAT with Sex Grinder
A Sex Grinder made of platinum silicone is placed between the bodies – directly on the clitoris. The CAT movement rubs the grinder with every back-and-forth motion. More on this in the toy section.
CAT vs. Missionary position: the crucial difference
| Factor | Standard Missionary Position | CAT Position |
|---|---|---|
| Body position | Pelvis at the same height | Penetrating person 5–10 cm higher |
| Type of movement | Up-and-down | Back-and-forth (rocking) |
| Clitoral contact | None or accidental | Direct, with every movement |
| G-spot stimulation | Medium | Altered angle, different quality |
| Orgasm rate (women) | ~25% with penetration alone | Significantly higher (Eichel study) |
| Free hands needed? | For clitoral stimulation yes | No – completely hands-free |
| Eye contact | Maximum | Maximum (same position) |
| Emotional connection | High | High (same closeness) |
Who is the CAT position ideal for?
- Women who rarely orgasm during penetration – the technique was specifically developed for this problem
- Couples who want eye contact and intimacy – the CAT position retains all the emotional benefits of the missionary position
- As an alternative to vibrator and free hand – completely hands-free, no toy needed
- Couples seeking synchronization – the counter-movement of both partners creates a connection that other positions do not offer
- For erectile dysfunction – the rocking motion is less demanding than intense thrusting; a penis sleeve provides stability
- As an upgrade to the missionary position – minimal change, maximum effect
Penis Sleeve in the CAT position: Friction on a new level
A penis sleeve made of platinum silicone enhances the CAT effect – not despite the technique, but because of it.
Why a sleeve enhances the technique:
- Larger base = more contact surface – the sleeve base is wider than the natural base. In the CAT movement, this larger surface rubs against the clitoris – more contact, more stimulation
- Platinum silicone texture – soft enough for pleasant friction, firm enough for constant contact. TPE sleeves are too soft and lose the contact point during the rocking motion
- Defined shape maintains angle – in the CAT position, where the angle is crucial, the sleeve maintains this angle even with slow movements
- Support for erectile dysfunction – the rocking motion is less demanding than thrusting; a sleeve provides stability regardless of erection level
→ Discover platinum silicone penis sleeves
PENIS SLEEVE · SUCTION CUP TEXTURE · PLATINUM SILICONE · CAT
Penis Sleeve with Suction Cup Texture – Open Foreskin Design made of Platinum Silicone
The wider base rubs against a larger area of the clitoris during CAT movement. Suction cup texture made of platinum silicone: soft enough for pleasant friction, firm enough for constant contact. Shape-stable during rocking motion.
From €78.00
View product →Sex Grinder as a CAT enhancer: the underestimated combination
The Sex Grinder made of platinum silicone is the ideal complementary toy for the CAT position. It is placed between the bodies – directly on the clitoris. The penetrating person's body weight holds it in position. With every back-and-forth rocking motion, the grinder rubs against the clitoris – completely hands-free, no holding, no adjusting.
CAT + Sex Grinder vs. CAT alone:
| Factor | CAT alone | CAT + Sex Grinder |
|---|---|---|
| Clitoral contact surface | Sleeve base or general base | Entire grinder surface |
| Stimulation intensity | High | Very high |
| Hands needed | No | No |
| Positional stability | Body contact | Body weight holds grinder |
| Fantasy texture | No | Yes – ribs, nubs, waves |
SEX GRINDER · VIBRATING · PLATINUM SILICONE · USB · CAT
Vibrating Grinder – Platinum Silicone with 3D Muscle Ball Texture & Rhino Horn Tip
Place between bodies – body weight holds it in position. With every CAT rocking motion, the 3D muscle ball texture rubs against the clitoris. Vibration can also be activated. Completely hands-free, USB rechargeable.
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View product →→ Discover platinum silicone Sex Grinders
CAT for Gay Couples & Femboys
Gay Couples (male):
The CAT position works for gay couples as an anal variant of the missionary position: penetrating person shifted upwards, rocking motion. The altered angle stimulates the receiving person's prostate differently than standard anal missionary position – more evenly, over a longer period. An anal plug for the penetrating person is activated by body weight with every rocking motion. → Overview of all gay sex positions with prostate stimulation
Femboys & Trans Women:
The CAT position retains all the emotional qualities of the missionary position: eye contact, physical closeness, equality. For femboys with Transgender Vagina Slip from SilikonLust, the CAT movement is particularly suitable – the rocking motion keeps the slip naturally in position, without slipping.
→ Discover Transgender Vagina Slip
The most common mistakes in the CAT position
| Mistake | Why it happens | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Up-and-down instead of rocking | Habit from the missionary position | Consciously switch to back-and-forth motion – start small |
| Not shifted high enough | One underestimates how far the shift needs to be | Shift up until clitoral contact is felt |
| Too fast a pace | Habit from other positions | CAT thrives on a slow, steady rhythm |
| Receiving person passive | One thinks only the penetrating person needs to adapt | Counter-movement by the receiving person doubles the intensity |
| No pillow | One tries CAT without aids | Pillow under the buttocks significantly facilitates clitoral contact |
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the CAT Position
What is the CAT position?
CAT stands for Coital Alignment Technique – a variation of the missionary position in which the penetrating person is shifted approx. 5–10 cm upwards. The movement is back-and-forth instead of up-and-down. This causes the base to rub directly against the clitoris with each movement – simultaneous penetration and clitoral stimulation, hands-free.
What does Coital Alignment Technique mean?
Coital Alignment Technique literally means 'coital alignment technique'. The term describes the precise body alignment that allows simultaneous penetration and clitoral stimulation. Developed in 1988 by Edward Eichel, scientifically confirmed as one of the most effective methods for female orgasm during penetration.
How does the CAT technique work step by step?
1. Assume the missionary position. 2. Shift the penetrating person 5–10 cm upwards. 3. Check for clitoral contact at the base. 4. Switch movement to back-and-forth (rocking). 5. Receiving person moves pelvis in opposition. 6. Maintain a slow, steady rhythm.
Is the CAT position scientifically proven?
Yes. Edward Eichel's study (1988) showed significantly higher orgasm rates in women using the technique compared to the standard missionary position. The method has since been confirmed in further studies and recommended by sex therapists worldwide.
What is the difference between CAT and the normal missionary position?
In the normal missionary position: up-and-down, no clitoral contact. In the CAT position: penetrating person positioned higher, back-and-forth rocking, direct clitoral contact with every movement. Minimal change – maximum effect.
Does CAT also work with a penis sleeve?
Yes – and a platinum silicone sleeve even enhances the effect. The wider base rubs against the clitoris over a larger area. Platinum silicone is soft enough for pleasant friction and firm enough for constant contact.
Can CAT be combined with a Sex Grinder?
Yes – this is one of the most effective combinations. The Sex Grinder is placed between the bodies, and body weight holds it in position. With each CAT rocking movement, it rubs against the clitoris – completely hands-free, providing a larger stimulation surface than the base alone.
Is the CAT position suitable for beginners?
Yes – the technique does not require acrobatic skills. The biggest challenge is changing the movement from up-and-down to rocking. With a pillow under the receiving person's buttocks, getting started is significantly easier.
→ Back to the Sex Positions Guide – all positions at a glance
