Why do cats always land on their feet?

Cats are known for their agility and dexterity, especially when it comes to one amazing skill: always landing on their feet. This behaviour has fascinated scientists and animal lovers alike for centuries.
The ability of cats to always land on their paws is the result of a unique combination of specialised anatomy and the natural reflexes of our beloved felines. Let’s take a closer look at how it happens!

Feline Adaptation

Cats’ ability to right themselves in mid-flight and land on their paws is due to a unique combination of anatomy and natural reflexes. This behaviour is known as ‘aerial righting’ and is closely related to their flexible body structure and acute sensory perception.

The Role of the Spine and Joints

One of the keys to understanding this ability lies in the incredible flexibility of the feline spine. Cats have a very flexible spine, with a large number of vertebrae, which allows them to turn quickly in the air to position themselves properly. In addition, their joints are designed to allow for agile and precise movements.

The Straightening Reflex

When a cat is in freefall, its body begins a complex process of righting itself. First, its brain quickly processes the body’s position in the air using visual and vestibular (inner ear) information. Next, the cat arches its back so that it can rotate each section of its body independently.

The Importance of Gravity

As the cat spins through the air, gravity also plays a crucial role. Felines are adept at manipulating the physics of motion and inertia. By rotating their body, they distribute their mass in such a way that they can change the speed of rotation and eventually land on their paws.

Feline Curiosities

• Cats have an exceptional ability to maintain orientation in the air, even in poorly lit environments. This is due to the adaptation of their eyes and their highly developed vestibular system.
• Historical records dating back to antiquity describe the ability of cats to land on their paws, showing that this phenomenon has intrigued mankind for centuries.

It is important to remember that although cats are experts at falling, this does not mean that they are exempt from serious injury. It is essential to take safety measures to protect our feline friends from potential accidents.