Instruction: how to tell if your cat is right-pawed or left-pawed.

Introduction to Feline Paw Preference

The Concept of Paw Preference

Paw preference, also known as laterality, describes the tendency of a cat to favor one forelimb over the other when performing tasks that require precise coordination. This bias mirrors handedness in humans and can reveal subtle aspects of neural organization and motor development.

Researchers identify preference by observing spontaneous or prompted behaviors. Reliable indicators include:

The paw a cat uses to reach for food placed centrally.
The limb selected to bat at a moving toy.
The side chosen when stepping onto a narrow surface.
The forelimb employed to scratch a designated spot.

Each test should be repeated several times to account for variability. Record the dominant paw in at least five trials; a consistent choice in four or more instances suggests a genuine preference.

Interpretation of results must consider age, health, and environmental factors. Kittens often display less defined bias, which can solidify by adulthood. Injuries or arthritis may temporarily shift usage toward the unaffected limb. Environmental enrichment that encourages bilateral activity can reduce extreme dominance.

Understanding paw preference assists veterinarians and behaviorists in designing rehabilitation protocols, selecting appropriate enrichment toys, and detecting early signs of neurological impairment. By applying systematic observation, owners can accurately determine whether their cat is right‑pawed or left‑pawed without specialized equipment.

Why Does Paw Preference Matter?

Understanding a cat’s dominant paw is not merely a curiosity; it provides actionable insight into the animal’s neuromuscular organization and everyday functioning. Recognizing which limb a cat favors allows owners and clinicians to interpret behavior, tailor enrichment, and detect deviations that may signal health concerns.

Paw preference influences several measurable aspects:

Motor coordination: dominant paws exhibit higher precision in tasks such as reaching for toys or manipulating objects, revealing the cat’s motor planning capacity.
Cognitive bias: studies link lateralized limb use to problem‑solving strategies, with right‑pawed cats often approaching puzzles differently than left‑pawed counterparts.
Injury risk assessment: uneven load distribution can predispose the non‑dominant side to strain or arthritis; early identification supports preventive care.
Neurological monitoring: sudden changes in paw usage may indicate spinal, peripheral nerve, or brain abnormalities, prompting timely veterinary evaluation.
Training efficiency: targeting the preferred paw in clicker‑training or agility drills accelerates learning and reduces frustration.

When owners systematically observe paw choice-by noting which paw initiates reaching, which side the cat uses to reach for food, or which paw it employs to swipe at moving objects-they obtain baseline data for comparison over time. Veterinarians can incorporate this baseline into routine examinations, enhancing diagnostic precision. Enrichment designers can craft toys that engage the dominant side, fostering balanced muscular development and mental stimulation.

In practice, integrating paw preference assessment into daily routines yields measurable benefits: improved welfare through early detection of asymmetry, optimized training outcomes, and more nuanced interpretation of feline behavior.

Dispelling Myths About Cat Laterality

Cats exhibit a preference for using one paw more often, yet many owners hold misconceptions that obscure accurate assessment. Below are the most common myths and the evidence‑based explanations that clarify feline laterality.

Myth: All cats are ambidextrous.
Observation of spontaneous behaviors-such as reaching for a toy, stepping onto a ledge, or swatting at a moving object-reveals a statistically significant split, with roughly 60 % of cats favoring one side. Controlled experiments confirm that a measurable majority display a consistent paw preference.
Myth: Paw preference mirrors human handedness.
While both species show lateral bias, the underlying neural mechanisms differ. In cats, the dominant paw is linked to asymmetries in the motor cortex and cerebellum, not to cultural or training factors that influence human handedness.
Myth: A cat’s dominant paw changes daily.
Longitudinal studies tracking individual cats over months demonstrate stable lateralization. Minor variations may occur when a cat is injured or fatigued, but the primary preference remains constant.
Myth: Only outdoor cats develop a paw bias.
Indoor cats, when provided with opportunities to choose between left‑ and right‑oriented tasks, exhibit the same distribution of preferences as outdoor counterparts. Environmental enrichment that includes bilateral stimuli is sufficient for the bias to emerge.
Myth: Paw preference predicts personality traits.
Correlations between laterality and traits such as aggression or sociability are weak and inconsistent across breeds. Reliable personality assessments require comprehensive behavioral testing beyond simple paw selection.

To determine a cat’s dominant paw, observe at least ten spontaneous actions without prompting. Record which paw initiates the movement each time. If a single paw is used in seven or more instances, classify the cat as right‑ or left‑pawed accordingly. Repeating the observation after a short interval validates the result.

Understanding the factual basis of cat laterality eliminates unfounded assumptions and enables owners to design enrichment activities that respect each animal’s natural inclination.

Preparing for Observation

Choosing the Right Environment

When assessing a cat’s paw preference, the setting in which observations occur can significantly affect the reliability of the results. An expert environment must meet three criteria: consistency, neutrality, and safety.

Consistent lighting eliminates shadows that could influence a cat’s reach. Use a well‑lit area with even illumination throughout the testing period.
Neutral surfaces prevent the animal from favoring a side due to texture. A smooth, non‑slippery mat placed on a stable floor works best.
Safety ensures the cat remains relaxed. Remove sharp objects, loud noises, and other pets that might cause stress.

Begin the test by placing a small, appealing object-such as a treat or a feather wand-directly in front of the cat, centered on the neutral surface. Observe which paw the cat uses to reach, swipe, or manipulate the item. Record each attempt without prompting the animal; spontaneous behavior provides the most accurate indicator of lateral dominance.

Conduct multiple trials, spacing them by several minutes to avoid fatigue. A minimum of five successful attempts per session yields a clear pattern. If the cat consistently uses the same paw, you can confidently identify it as right‑ or left‑pawed.

Finally, maintain the same environmental conditions across all sessions. Any variation-different flooring, altered lighting, or the presence of other animals-introduces variables that may mask the true preference. By controlling the environment, you isolate the cat’s natural inclination and obtain a trustworthy assessment.

Gathering Necessary Supplies

As a feline behavior specialist, I recommend assembling a focused set of tools before assessing a cat’s paw preference. The items should be readily available, inexpensive, and safe for the animal.

Small, high‑value treats that motivate quick responses.
A lightweight ball or feather wand that can be tossed repeatedly.
Two identical, narrow tunnels or cardboard tubes to encourage paw‑specific navigation.
A stable, non‑slipping surface such as a silicone mat for consistent footing.
A simple data sheet or spreadsheet template to record each trial’s outcome.
A pen or digital device for immediate note‑taking.
Optional: a video camera or smartphone on a tripod to capture ambiguous attempts.

Each component serves a precise purpose. Treats create a clear incentive, while the ball or wand elicits spontaneous reaching. Identical tunnels allow observation of which side the cat favors when entering or exiting. The non‑slipping mat eliminates variable footing that could skew results. Recording tools ensure accurate documentation, and video backup provides verification for borderline cases.

Before testing, verify that all supplies are clean, free of sharp edges, and appropriate for the cat’s size and age. Position the items in a quiet area to minimize external distractions. With this curated kit, the evaluation of paw dominance proceeds efficiently and reproducibly.

Ensuring Your Cat's Comfort and Cooperation

Assessing a cat’s paw preference requires a calm environment and the animal’s willingness to engage. Begin by observing natural behaviors-how the cat reaches for toys, steps onto a perch, or swipes at a dangling object. Note which forelimb initiates the action most frequently. Consistent right‑handed or left‑handed patterns emerge after several minutes of unobstructed play.

If spontaneous observation yields ambiguous results, introduce a structured test while maintaining the cat’s comfort. Place a small treat on a flat surface and position a lightweight stick or feather within reach. Encourage the cat to bat at the stimulus. Record the paw used for the first successful swipe, then repeat the trial five to ten times, allowing short intervals between attempts. The majority choice indicates the dominant paw.

To ensure cooperation, keep sessions brief, use familiar toys, and avoid forcing the cat into stressful positions. Provide a soft, non‑slippery surface to prevent slipping, and reward each successful attempt with a treat. A relaxed cat is more likely to display natural preferences without defensive behavior.

Key considerations for a reliable assessment:

Conduct observations in a quiet room free of sudden noises.
Use familiar objects to reduce anxiety.
Limit each testing session to under five minutes.
Record results in a simple table, noting trial number and paw used.
Confirm the pattern over multiple days to account for variability.

By combining natural observation with a controlled, low‑stress test, you can accurately determine whether a cat favors its right or left forelimb while preserving its well‑being and willingness to cooperate.

Methods for Determining Paw Preference

The "Reach Test" Method

1. Setting Up the Test

As a veterinary behavior specialist, I recommend a controlled environment to evaluate a cat’s paw preference reliably. Begin by selecting a quiet room where the animal feels safe and distractions are minimal. Remove toys, food bowls, and any items that could draw attention away from the test apparatus.

Prepare a simple, repeatable stimulus such as a small treat placed on a flat surface. Position the treat so the cat must reach forward and use a paw to tap or swipe it. Use a consistent height (approximately 2-3 cm above the floor) and distance from the cat’s starting point (about 10 cm). Record the first paw that makes contact.

Perform at least ten trials per session, alternating the cat’s orientation (left‑side and right‑side) to prevent side bias. Allow a short rest of 30 seconds between attempts to avoid fatigue. Document each response in a table, noting trial number, paw used, and any hesitations.

Ensure the same handler conducts all sessions, wearing neutral clothing and maintaining a calm demeanor to reduce inadvertent cueing. Repeat the test on separate days to confirm consistency; a clear majority (≥ 70 % of attempts) using the same paw indicates a dominant side.

2. Observing Your Cat's Behavior

Observing a cat’s everyday actions reveals its paw preference. When the animal reaches for food, treats, or toys, note which front paw initiates the movement. Consistently using the same paw to swipe, bat, or grasp indicates dominance.

During climbing, the cat typically leads with its stronger forelimb. Watch the sequence of paw placement on a scratching post or furniture; the leading paw often matches the preferred side.

Play behavior offers clear clues. In a game of chase or with a feather wand, the cat will frequently strike with its favored paw. Record the number of successful contacts made by each paw over several minutes; a marked imbalance confirms the preference.

Feeding from a bowl also provides evidence. Cats that tilt the bowl or nudge food toward themselves usually employ the same paw for the adjustment. Repeating the observation with the bowl positioned at different angles eliminates positional bias.

Finally, grooming patterns can be diagnostic. Cats tend to use their dominant paw to clean the opposite side of their body. If the cat repeatedly rubs its left flank with the right paw, the right side is likely dominant.

Summarize the observations in a short table or list, tallying each instance. A clear majority-generally exceeding 70 %-identifies the cat as right‑pawed or left‑pawed. This systematic approach eliminates guesswork and provides reliable insight into feline laterality.

3. Recording the Results

When evaluating a cat’s paw preference, the reliability of conclusions depends on meticulous documentation. Record every observation in a dedicated log, preferably a spreadsheet or notebook that can be referenced later.

Cat identification - name, breed, age, and any relevant medical history.
Date and time - each testing session gets a timestamp to track changes over weeks or months.
Test method - specify whether the “food bowl,” “toy reach,” or “obstacle navigation” protocol was employed.
Number of trials - count each attempt; a minimum of ten trials per session reduces random variation.
Outcome per trial - note which paw initiated the action (right, left, or ambiguous).
Aggregate result - calculate the proportion of right‑paw uses versus left‑paw uses; a clear majority (e.g., >70 %) indicates dominance.
Observational notes - record distractions, health issues, or environmental factors that could influence performance.

Maintain consistency in format across entries; this enables statistical analysis and comparison between cats or across time. Regularly review the compiled data to confirm a stable preference or identify shifts that may warrant further investigation.

The "Treat Box" Method

1. Constructing a Simple Treat Box

When assessing whether a cat prefers its right or left forelimb, a homemade treat dispenser offers a reliable, repeatable method. The device should present a single reward that requires the animal to reach through a narrow opening, forcing the cat to use one paw consistently. Construction is straightforward and inexpensive.

Materials needed:

Small cardboard box (approximately 10 × 10 × 5 cm)
Thin plastic sheet or stiff paper for the opening
Scissors, utility knife
Non‑toxic glue or tape
One small treat or piece of kibble

Steps:

Cut a rectangular slit (about 2 cm wide, 1 cm high) on one side of the box, positioned near the top edge. The slit must be just large enough for a paw to fit, preventing the cat from inserting its head.
Reinforce the slit edges with a thin strip of plastic or stiff paper, securing it with glue or tape. This prevents tearing and ensures the opening remains uniform.
Attach a removable lid or flap on the opposite side to allow easy placement of the treat inside the box.
Place a single treat inside, close the lid, and position the box on a stable surface at the cat’s eye level.

Testing procedure:

Observe the cat’s approach. Record which paw it inserts through the slit to retrieve the treat.
Repeat the trial five times, alternating the box’s orientation (rotate 180°) to eliminate side bias.
Tally the number of right‑paw and left‑paw attempts. A consistent majority indicates the dominant forelimb.

The simple treat box provides a controlled environment, eliminates external cues, and yields clear data for determining paw preference.

2. Presenting the Box to Your Cat

When assessing a cat’s paw preference, a simple cardboard box can serve as an effective testing tool. The box should be large enough for the animal to enter comfortably but small enough that the cat must reach through an opening to retrieve a reward. Position the box on a stable surface at the cat’s eye level to encourage natural interaction.

Prepare the test by placing a small, highly appealing treat just inside the opening, ensuring the cat can see it without immediately seeing the treat’s exact location. Encourage the cat to enter the box and reach for the treat. Observe which forelimb makes contact with the treat first. Record the paw used for each attempt, then remove the treat and allow the cat to exit before repeating the trial.

Repeat the procedure at least five times, spacing attempts by several minutes to prevent learning bias. Consistent use of the same paw across multiple trials indicates a dominant side. If the cat alternates paws, additional tests-such as presenting a narrow tube or a dangling toy-may be required to confirm lateral preference.

3. Analyzing Paw Usage

When evaluating a cat’s dominant paw, systematic observation of how the animal employs its forelimbs yields reliable results. Begin by selecting a neutral environment free of distractions; consistency in setting reduces variability in behavior.

Food retrieval - Place a treat just out of reach of the cat’s front paws. Note which paw the cat consistently uses to swipe or grasp the morsel. Repeat the trial five times, recording the chosen limb each time. A pattern of three or more uses of the same paw indicates dominance.
Object manipulation - Offer a small toy that requires a pulling motion, such as a feather on a string. Observe which forelimb initiates contact and maintains control. Document the frequency across multiple sessions to confirm a preference.
Climbing and scratching - Position a narrow perch or scratching post at an angle. Watch which paw the cat places first when ascending or when beginning a scratch. A repeatable choice signals the preferred side.
Grooming focus - During routine self‑grooming, cats often favor one paw to clean the opposite side of the face. Monitor which paw contacts the muzzle or ear more often; consistent use aligns with handedness.

After gathering data, calculate the proportion of trials in which each paw was selected. A dominance ratio above 70 % for one side is widely accepted as conclusive. Document findings in a simple table for reference, and compare results across different activities to verify consistency. This methodical approach eliminates guesswork and provides a clear, evidence‑based determination of whether a cat is right‑pawed or left‑pawed.

The "Toy Retrieval" Method

1. Selecting Appropriate Toys

As a feline behavior specialist, I advise using toys that reveal a cat’s dominant paw. Choose items that require a precise grip, encourage repeated strikes, and allow clear observation of which forelimb initiates contact.

Key criteria for selecting suitable toys:

Size and shape - small, elongated objects (e.g., feather wands, narrow plush mice) force the cat to grasp with a single paw.
Texture - smooth surfaces reduce friction, making the cat’s preferred paw more apparent during rapid swipes.
Weight distribution - lightly weighted toys that bounce back when struck highlight the strength and speed of the initiating paw.
Interactive design - toys that move unpredictably (e.g., battery‑powered mice) compel the cat to react instinctively, exposing its natural hand preference.

During observation, position the toy at the cat’s midline, on a non‑slippery surface. Record which forelimb makes the first contact and which maintains control through several attempts. Repeating the test with at least three different toys confirms consistency and reduces bias.

By systematically selecting and employing these toy types, owners can reliably determine whether their cat favors the right or left forelimb. This method also enriches play, supporting both behavioral assessment and overall well‑being.

2. Initiating Play Sessions

Observing a cat’s dominant paw often begins with structured play. Initiate sessions that encourage the animal to reach, swipe, or bat objects, because the preferred limb will be used more frequently and with greater confidence.

Start each session with a consistent routine:

Choose a lightweight toy that can be thrown or dangled (feather wand, laser pointer, small ball).
Position the cat at a fixed distance, ensuring the environment is free of distractions.
Release the toy in a straight line across the cat’s field of vision, prompting a chase.
Record which forepaw initiates the first swipe and which one maintains contact during repeated attempts.

Repeat the exercise three times daily for a week, alternating the side from which the toy is launched. Consistent use of the same paw across multiple trials indicates dominance. Adjust the toy’s speed or angle only after a baseline pattern emerges, to avoid introducing variables that could mask the cat’s natural preference.

3. Documenting Paw Dominance

Observing a cat’s paw preference yields reliable results only when the information is recorded systematically. An expert approach treats each trial as a data point, noting the conditions under which the animal selects a particular paw.

Record the following elements for every attempt: the calendar date, the exact time, the specific task (e.g., reaching for a treat, batting a toy, stepping onto a platform), the paw used, and whether the action succeeded. Include any external factors that might influence behavior, such as the cat’s mood, the presence of other animals, or environmental changes.

A practical layout consists of a simple table with these columns:

Date
Time
Task description
Paw employed (right, left, both)
Outcome (success, failure)
Observational notes

Digital spreadsheets allow quick sorting and filtering; a handwritten log works equally well if kept consistently.

Collect at least ten repetitions of each task before drawing conclusions. Consistency in timing and setup reduces variability, while a larger sample size highlights true dominance patterns. After gathering sufficient data, calculate the proportion of right‑paw versus left‑paw selections for each activity. A clear majority (≥70 %) indicates a dominant side.

Regular review of the compiled records confirms the stability of the preference and helps identify any shifts that may arise from aging, injury, or training. Maintaining this disciplined documentation ensures that assessments of paw dominance are both accurate and reproducible.

Interpreting Your Observations

What to Look For

As a veterinary behavior specialist, I observe that determining a cat’s dominant paw relies on consistent, observable actions rather than occasional gestures. The following indicators provide reliable evidence of lateral preference:

Object interaction - When a cat bats a toy, reaches for food, or pushes a ball, note which forepaw initiates contact. Repeated use of the same paw across multiple sessions signals dominance.
Climbing and stepping - During ascent onto a perch or ladder, the first paw placed on the higher rung often reflects the favored side. Record the initial step during several climbs to confirm a pattern.
Scratching behavior - Cats typically engage a single paw when scratching a post or carpet. Observe which paw makes the primary contact and whether it alternates.
Grooming reach - While cleaning, a cat may use one paw to grasp fur or assist in licking. Consistent use of the same paw while grooming a specific body region indicates preference.
Food handling - When presented with a puzzle feeder or a piece of food that requires manipulation, the paw that manipulates the item first is a strong indicator.
Response to obstacles - In a maze or obstacle course, note which paw the cat uses to navigate tight turns or to push aside barriers. Repeated choice of the same side demonstrates lateral bias.

To increase accuracy, document each behavior over several days, preferably using video recordings. Compare the frequency of right‑ versus left‑paw usage across contexts; a clear majority (>70 % of observed instances) confirms the dominant side. Ambidextrous cats may show no significant bias, requiring a larger sample size to reach a conclusive assessment.

Understanding Consistent vs. Inconsistent Behavior

When evaluating a cat’s paw preference, distinguishing between consistent and inconsistent actions is essential. Consistency indicates a genuine lateral bias, whereas occasional variation may reflect situational factors rather than true handedness.

Observe the animal across multiple contexts and record each instance where a paw is employed. Reliable indicators include:

Reaching for toys or treats with the same paw over several days.
Initiating climbs on furniture or cat trees using one forelimb first.
Batting at moving objects such as laser pointers or feather wands with a single paw.
Opening doors, drawers, or containers by grasping handles consistently with one side.

Collect data for at least ten separate events per activity. A pattern emerging in 70 % or more of the trials suggests a stable preference.

Inconsistent behavior appears when the cat alternates paws without a clear majority. This may result from:

Novel or stressful situations that disrupt habitual motor patterns.
Physical discomfort in the dominant limb, prompting temporary compensation.
Lack of sufficient training or exposure to the task, leading to trial-and-error responses.

To differentiate true ambidexterity from random variation, repeat the assessment after a rest period and compare results. If the same paw dominates across repeated sessions, the preference is robust. If the dominant side shifts, the cat likely lacks a strong lateral bias.

Finally, maintain a neutral environment during observation. Remove distractions, ensure the cat is at ease, and use identical objects for each trial. Consistent methodology eliminates external influences, allowing the intrinsic paw preference to emerge clearly.

When to Repeat the Tests

Determining a cat’s dominant paw is a simple observation that can be skewed by temporary factors. Re‑testing ensures the result reflects a stable preference rather than a fleeting behavior.

Re‑evaluate the paw preference under the following conditions:

The cat is younger than three months; motor coordination is still developing.
A noticeable change in activity level occurs, such as after a period of reduced play or increased exercise.
The animal experiences an injury or illness affecting a limb, even if recovery appears complete.
The environment changes dramatically (new home, altered feeding stations, different toys).
Inconsistent results appear across initial trials (e.g., equal numbers of left‑ and right‑paw actions).

Schedule repeat tests at intervals of two to three weeks until three consecutive assessments produce the same dominant side. If the cat’s health status changes or a new stressor emerges, repeat the evaluation promptly. Consistent methodology-identical tasks, same time of day, and similar motivation-must be maintained for each session to avoid introducing bias.

Beyond Basic Observation

Factors That Might Influence Paw Preference

Cats display a dominant paw much like humans favor a hand, yet the underlying causes are multifactorial. Genetics provide a baseline; certain lineages show a higher incidence of right‑paw bias, suggesting inherited neural circuitry. Early developmental experiences shape that circuitry. Kittens that repeatedly retrieve toys or food from one side develop stronger motor patterns on that side, reinforcing preference. Environmental layout influences the habit as well-objects placed consistently on one flank of the feeding area or litter box encourage the cat to use the nearer paw.

Physical condition can redirect dominance. A cat recovering from a paw injury or arthritis may temporarily favor the uninjured limb, potentially establishing a new long‑term bias. Breed characteristics also play a role; some breeds, such as Abyssinians, have been reported to show a slight right‑paw predominance, whereas others display a more balanced distribution. Sex differences appear subtle, with male cats marginally more likely to exhibit right‑paw dominance in several studies, though the gap is not decisive.

Training and human interaction contribute further. Owners who consistently encourage the cat to reach for treats with a specific paw inadvertently shape preference. Social dynamics within multi‑cat households can produce competition for resources, prompting individuals to adopt the most efficient paw for rapid access.

Key influences can be summarized:

Genetic predisposition
Early motor‑learning experiences
Spatial arrangement of resources
Injury or chronic pain
Breed‑specific tendencies
Sex‑related variations
Owner‑directed training
Social hierarchy in multi‑cat environments

Understanding these variables helps owners interpret paw‑use observations accurately and avoid misattributing transient behaviors to innate handedness.

The Role of Breed and Age

When assessing a cat’s dominant paw, breed and age provide measurable clues that refine the observation process.

Purebred lines often exhibit stronger paw preferences than mixed‑breed populations. Studies of Siamese, Maine Coon and Abyssinian cats report a 60‑70 % incidence of consistent hand‑like bias, whereas domestic shorthair groups show a more balanced distribution. Genetic factors linked to brain lateralisation differ among breeds, influencing motor coordination and the likelihood of a stable preference.

Age influences the stability of the bias. Kittens display variable paw use during play and exploration; a clear pattern typically emerges between four and six months. Adult cats (1-7 years) maintain a consistent preference, while senior cats (8 years and older) may exhibit reduced dexterity, leading to occasional deviation from their established pattern.

Practical steps for determining dominance, adjusted for breed and age, include:

Observe the cat during three separate feeding sessions, noting which paw reaches the bowl first.
Record the paw used to bat at moving toys over a ten‑minute interval, repeating the test on different days.
For kittens, extend the observation period to at least two weeks to account for developmental fluctuations.
In older cats, limit tasks to low‑effort actions (e.g., stepping onto a low platform) to avoid fatigue‑induced errors.

By integrating breed‑specific tendencies and age‑related development stages, the assessment becomes more precise, allowing owners and veterinarians to identify paw dominance with confidence.

Long-Term Monitoring and Documentation

As a feline behavior specialist, I advise that reliable determination of a cat’s dominant paw requires systematic observation over weeks rather than a single trial. Paw preference may fluctuate with mood, environment, or health, so only sustained data reveal a consistent pattern.

Begin with a baseline schedule: observe the cat during natural play, feeding, and interaction sessions at least twice daily for five minutes each. Record every instance in which the animal uses a paw to manipulate a toy, reach for food, or press a lever. Consistency across multiple contexts strengthens the conclusion.

Maintain a dedicated log, either on paper or in a digital spreadsheet. Each entry should include date, time, activity, paw used (right, left, or both), and any notable conditions (e.g., presence of a new object, recent veterinary visit). A simple column layout ensures quick entry and easy aggregation.

Supplement handwritten notes with video recordings whenever possible. Position a camera to capture the cat’s forelimb movements from a side angle; later review the footage to verify ambiguous entries and to count total attempts. Tag each clip with the same identifiers used in the log for cross‑reference.

After a minimum of fourteen days, tally the number of right‑paw and left‑paw actions. Calculate the proportion of each (right‑paw count ÷ total attempts, left‑paw count ÷ total attempts). A difference exceeding 60 % in one direction typically indicates a dominant side. If the ratio remains near 50 %, the cat may be ambidextrous or require a longer observation period.

Document the final assessment in a summary section of the log: dominant paw, percentage split, observation period, and any factors that could have influenced the result. Store the record in a secure, searchable format to allow future comparison if the cat’s behavior changes with age or health status.

Continual documentation, even after the initial determination, provides a reference point for veterinarians, trainers, and owners who need to adapt enrichment tools or medical procedures to the animal’s preferred side.