Why don't cats break when they fall? - briefly
Cats possess a highly flexible spine and a unique "righting reflex" that allows them to rotate their bodies mid-air, ensuring they land on their feet and absorb the impact effectively.
Why don't cats break when they fall? - in detail
Cats possess a remarkable ability to survive falls from significant heights, a phenomenon often attributed to their unique anatomy and instincts. Their bodies are designed to minimize injury during such events, starting with their highly flexible skeletal structure. Cats have a collarbone that is not rigidly attached to their skeleton, allowing them to twist and rotate their bodies mid-air with exceptional agility. This flexibility enables them to reorient themselves during a fall, positioning their limbs to absorb the impact effectively.
Another critical factor is their righting reflex, an innate ability that allows cats to quickly adjust their posture while falling. This reflex is triggered by their inner ear, which detects changes in orientation and sends signals to the brain. Within milliseconds, cats can twist their bodies to land on their feet, reducing the risk of injury. This reflex is most effective in falls from moderate heights, as it gives the cat sufficient time to adjust its position.
Cats also have a low terminal velocity compared to larger animals due to their relatively small size and light weight. Terminal velocity is the maximum speed an object reaches when the force of gravity is balanced by air resistance. For cats, this speed is around 60 miles per hour, which, while still significant, is less likely to cause fatal injuries than the terminal velocity of larger animals. Additionally, their bodies are equipped to distribute the force of impact more evenly. When a cat lands, its legs act as shock absorbers, bending to dissipate the energy of the fall. Their muscles and tendons are highly elastic, further reducing the risk of fractures or internal injuries.
Fur and skin also contribute to their resilience. A cat's loose skin and thick fur provide a layer of protection, cushioning the body during impact. This combination of physical traits and instincts allows cats to survive falls that would be catastrophic for many other animals. However, it is important to note that while cats are highly adept at surviving falls, they are not invincible, and injuries can still occur, particularly in extreme cases or from very great heights.