Probably many cat owners have come across such a funny picture: their furry pet is climbing down a tree trunk backwards.
Why do cats behave so strangely? Let's look into the reasons for this unusual behavior.
Features of the structure of cats
The reason is largely due to the anatomical features of cats. Their front paws are more flexible and mobile than their back paws. They bear the brunt of the load when climbing.
The hind legs serve for pushing off and balancing. Therefore, it is easier and more convenient for cats to descend from a tree, holding on to the trunk with their front paws.
In addition, cat claws do not retract completely. When descending head first, the claws can catch on the tree bark, which will lead to painful sensations and discomfort. And by descending backwards, the cat minimizes this possibility.
Caution and control
Walking backwards allows the cat to see where it is stepping and to be in control of the situation. Cat vision is adapted to focus on close objects.
By looking down during the descent, a cat can estimate the distance to the ground and prepare for landing.
In addition, this method of descent allows you to monitor the surrounding environment for dangers.
Wild cats are always on guard, ready for the unexpected. Therefore, caution when descending from a tree is natural for them.
Conservation of energy
Climbing head first requires a lot of energy for a cat. It has to constantly cling with its claws and strain its muscles to support its body weight.
When descending in reverse, the cat glides down in a relaxed manner, saving strength and energy.
Thus, cats descend from trees in such an unusual pose largely due to the peculiarities of their body structure.
In addition, this method allows them to remain cautious and save energy. Although at first glance it looks funny and ridiculous, in fact, it shows the wisdom of cats!
Scientists' opinion
Scientists are also interested in this unusual behavior of cats. In particular, a scientific study on this topic was conducted at the University of Massachusetts.
Several hypotheses have been put forward to explain this behavior:
1) The desire to control the environment.
2) Reducing the load on the front legs.
3) Innate caution and avoidance of danger.
To test these assumptions, scientists conducted a series of experiments with domestic cats. It was found that even kittens blind from birth exhibit the same behavior. This means that it is truly innate and not conditioned by visual control of the environment.
It has also been noted that when descending, cats actively use their tails for balance. This reduces the load on the front paws, which confirms one of the hypotheses.
Thus, scientific data helps to better understand why cats behave this way. It is a complex of innate instincts and anatomical features.
Conclusion
So, we figured out why cats prefer to descend from trees in a special pose. This is explained by the anatomy and instincts of cats. They strive for safety and energy conservation.
Of course, it looks funny from the outside when a cat slowly moves downwards backwards.
But behind this lies the wisdom of animals, it is not for nothing that they say that cats always land on their paws!
Earlier we wrote about whether it is possible to give potatoes to rabbits.
