A kitty in poker refers to a pool of money collected from various pots during a game, primarily used for shared expenses benefiting all players.
What is a Kitty in Poker?
In the context of poker, a "kitty" is a communal fund accumulated by taking small amounts of money from certain pots throughout a game. This collected money is not part of the standard pot that players compete for; instead, it serves a separate, collective purpose for the group.
The Purpose of a Poker Kitty
The primary reason for establishing a poker kitty is to cover shared expenses that enhance the overall playing experience for everyone involved. Common uses for a poker kitty include:
- Buying Refreshments: Purchasing drinks, snacks, or food for the players during the game session.
- Acquiring Supplies: Funding the purchase of new playing cards, poker chips, or other necessary gaming equipment.
- House Maintenance: In home games, it might contribute to maintaining the playing area or covering minor related costs.
- Prize Money: In some casual settings, it could supplement or create a small prize for the winner of a particular session or event.
How a Poker Kitty is Collected
The method of collecting money for the kitty can vary, but it typically involves taking a small, predetermined amount from each pot that reaches a certain size. Common collection methods include:
- Small Percentage: A tiny percentage (e.g., 1-2%) of the pot is skimmed off before the winner takes their share.
- Fixed Amount: A fixed small amount (e.g., one chip of the lowest denomination) is taken from any pot that exceeds a set value.
- Specific Pot: Funds might only be taken from pots where the action goes beyond a certain street (e.g., after the flop or turn).
The rules for collecting from the kitty should be established and agreed upon by all players before the game begins to ensure fairness and transparency.
Beyond Poker: Other Meanings of "Kitty"
While "kitty" in poker specifically refers to a communal fund, the term has broader meanings in card games and general colloquial use. Understanding these distinctions can help clarify its specific application in poker.
| Term Meaning | Description | Context/Example |
|---|---|---|
| Poker Kitty | A pool of money built by collecting small amounts from certain pots. | Used to buy refreshments, new cards, or other shared amenities for players. |
| Card Game Kitty | Additional cards dealt face down. | Seen in some non-poker card games where players may exchange cards with this "kitty". |
| Colloquial Kitty | A general term for prize money or other moneys collected by a group. | Can refer to funds collected for a communal gift, a charity, or a group outing. |
For further information on the term, you can refer to its general definition on Kitty - Wikipedia.
