Sitting is a game mechanic used by the player and some mobs under specific circumstances.

Mechanics

Riding

Players and humanoid mobs can enter the sitting-like posture when riding an entity.

Wolves, parrots and cats

The player can order a tamed wolf, cat, or parrot to sit by right-clicking. These mobs stay in place, and do not move or teleport to the player unless they are attacked or the animal is forced to stand.

Wolves and cats inside minecarts or boats do not actually appear sitting.^[1]

Foxes

Foxes occasionally sit down on their own accord. This happens when they cannot find an area to sleep. Sitting happens briefly, and the fox resumes standing within seconds. Foxes also do not permanently sit within vehicles.^[1]

Pandas

Pandas also sit on their own accord, sometimes to eat.

History

Java Edition Alpha
v1.0.4					Added riding posture to replace awkward standing.
Java Edition Beta
1.4					Added wolves, which can be told to sit.
Java Edition
1.2.1		12w04a			Added cats, which can be told to sit.

Gallery

Cats

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Foxes

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Pandas

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Parrots

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Wolves

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References