Myth 3: Cats Always Land on Their Feet, So Falls Aren’t Dangerous
The saying “cats always land on their feet” stems from their remarkable “righting reflex,” an innate ability to orient their body during a fall to land on their paws. While this reflex is highly effective, it is not foolproof. Falls, especially from significant heights or onto hard surfaces, can still cause severe injuries, a phenomenon veterinarians often refer to as “high-rise syndrome.”
Understanding the Righting Reflex and Its Critical Limits
Cats possess an incredibly flexible spine, a unique vestibular system (inner ear balance mechanism), and a keen sense of balance, allowing them to twist their bodies mid-air with incredible speed. Their relatively large body surface area compared to their weight helps reduce their terminal velocity, giving them a slightly slower, more controlled descent than a comparable object. However, this complex reflex requires sufficient time and distance to execute properly. Falls from very short distances might not give them enough time to right themselves, leading to awkward landings. Conversely, falls from extreme heights, such as multiple stories, can still result in severe trauma even if they manage to land on their feet because the sheer impact force on their limbs and internal organs remains substantial. The cushioning effect of their paws and flexible joints can only absorb so much energy.
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