When a cat falls, it twists its body like a gymnast to land on four feet. This happens because cats have no collarbone and an incredibly flexible spine.
The Twist Trick
First, the cat tucks in its front legs and stretches out its back legs. This changes how heavy it feels in different parts of its body. Because the back part is "heavier" (harder to turn) with legs extended, it turns slower. The front part is "lighter" with tucked legs, so it spins faster.
The [Inner Compass](/search?q=inner%20compass)
Inside each ear are tiny crystals that tell the cat which way is down. When the cat feels itself tilting backward in free fall, this reflex kicks in automatically before the cat even knows it is falling. The cat uses its tail like a rudder to help balance itself during the final second of the drop.
Key Points
- Flexible spine allows twisting
- Tucked legs make spinning easier
- Inner ear tells which way is down
Examples
- A cat hanging upside down shakes off water by rotating its spine rapidly.
- A dog falls but lands awkwardly while the cat beside it lands perfectly on four feet.
Ask a question
See also
Loading…