Cat’s Claw

So God said, “Let’s make the kitten cute, with a loving face, and soft paws. Oh, and let´s put some razor-like claws on those cute paws!” Well, at least that is how we imagine a cat’s claw came to be. But the truth is that there are some intriguing facts about this important feature in a cat´s anatomy.

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Cool facts about a cat’s claw

A Cat´s Claw is a Tool

In the case of us humans, our nails help protect the fingers and lay flat on top of them. Cats, on the other hand, retract from under their toes. These claws are a tool the cat uses for different purposes such as climbing, grabbing stuff, to catch and hold prey.

They can also use this tool to scratch, self-defense, and traction. You have seen how cats use their claw to fend off or attack a threatening dog.

Claws are Retractable

When a cat wants to extend his claws he contracts a tendon that makes the claw come out and down. Thanks to this ability, your cat does not scratch your shiny hardwood floor when they are walking on it.

Contrary to what many might believe, a cat´s claw does not completely contract to the inside of the paws. They are still visible a little bit on top of the toes resting on it.

They Never Stop Growing

You have probably seen some pieces of claw on the floor and then go running to check if your cat has lost any blood. Most probably, there is no need for you to worry. This is the piece of the claw that went dead due to lack of blood flow. But don’t worry, there is a new one growing right after the one they dropped.

Cats Walk on Their Fingertips

This is pretty interesting. Unlike we humans that walk with the entire flat of the foot, cats walk on their toes. This makes them be called “digitigrades“, meaning that they walk on their toes and not on their entire paw.

Stay with us here in Dogalize if you want new and real-time information about the life of cats. We have everything you need to give your furry friend the life he deserves. Visit us to learn more.