How do cat claws bend? - briefly
Cat claws bend due to the specialized structure of their retractable mechanism, controlled by tendons and ligaments that allow them to extend or retract as needed.
How do cat claws bend? - in detail
Cat claws possess a unique anatomical structure that allows them to retract and extend with precision. Each claw is attached to the third phalanx, the terminal bone in a cat's toe, and is controlled by a complex system of tendons and ligaments. When a cat is at rest, the claws remain retracted, tucked into protective sheaths within the toe pads. This retraction is facilitated by the dorsal elastic ligament, which pulls the claw upward and keeps it hidden to prevent wear and tear. When a cat needs to use its claws, such as for climbing, hunting, or self-defense, the flexor tendons are engaged. These tendons run along the underside of the toe and are connected to muscles in the forearm. When the cat contracts these muscles, the tendons pull the claw downward, extending it outward from the sheath. This mechanism is both efficient and energy-conserving, allowing cats to deploy their claws swiftly and smoothly. The bending of the claws is further aided by their curved shape, which enhances grip and precision. Additionally, the outer layer of the claw, made of keratin, is continuously growing and shedding, ensuring the claws remain sharp and functional. This intricate system of retraction, extension, and maintenance underscores the evolutionary adaptation of cats to their predatory and arboreal lifestyles.