Why do cats fall with their paws down? - briefly
Cats instinctively twist their bodies mid-air to align their paws downward, a reflex known as the "righting reflex," which helps them land safely and reduces the risk of injury.
Why do cats fall with their paws down? - in detail
Cats possess a remarkable innate ability known as the "righting reflex," which allows them to orient themselves during a fall to land on their paws. This reflex is a result of their highly flexible spine and a specialized vestibular system in their inner ear, which helps them detect changes in orientation. When a cat falls, it first rotates its head to align with the ground, followed by the rest of its body. The cat then arches its back to slow the rotation and extends its legs to prepare for impact. This process occurs rapidly, often within milliseconds, due to the cat's acute sense of balance and coordination. Additionally, cats have a low body-to-weight ratio and a unique skeletal structure that aids in distributing the force of the landing, minimizing injury. This evolutionary adaptation has developed over time to enhance their survival, particularly in arboreal environments where falls are more common. While this reflex is highly effective, it does not guarantee safety from all injuries, especially in falls from significant heights. Nonetheless, it remains a fascinating example of feline agility and biological adaptation.