From what height can a cat fall? - briefly
Cats can survive falls from significant heights, often up to several stories, due to their ability to right themselves and reduce terminal velocity.
From what height can a cat fall? - in detail
Cats possess a remarkable ability to survive falls from significant heights due to their unique anatomy and instincts. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "righting reflex," allows cats to orient themselves mid-air and land on their feet. When a cat falls, it instinctively arches its back, spreads out its limbs, and rotates its body to minimize impact. Their flexible spine, muscular structure, and low body weight contribute to this ability. Additionally, cats have a terminal velocity of approximately 60 miles per hour, which is much lower than that of humans, reducing the force of impact upon landing. Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that cats can survive falls from heights as great as five to nine stories, with some even surviving falls from higher elevations. Interestingly, falls from moderate heights (two to five stories) can sometimes result in more severe injuries than falls from greater heights. This is because cats have less time to fully orient themselves and prepare for impact when falling from shorter distances. However, survival depends on various factors, including the cat's age, health, and the surface it lands on. While cats are remarkably resilient, it is crucial to ensure their safety by preventing access to high windows or balconies to avoid such incidents altogether.