https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/training-and-behavior/do-cats-always-land-on-their-feet
Cats possess a remarkable ability known as the “righting reflex,” which allows them to twist their bodies midair and often land on their feet.
This innate skill relies on a combination of strong muscles, an incredibly flexible spine, lightweight skeletal structure, and a finely tuned sense of balance.
Their bodies are built for agility, with fast twitch muscle fibers and floating collarbones that enhance movement.
Even their fur helps by adding air resistance, slowing their fall.
While this reflex is impressive, it is NOT infallible - cats need Enough Height to reorient themselves, and even a well executed landing can sometimes result in injuries.
Factors like Age, Weight, Health Conditions, and the Surface They Land On can all influence whether a cat lands safely or sustains harm.
Despite popular myths, cats are NOT immune to injury from falls.
While greater heights can give them more time to adjust and reduce terminal velocity, no fall is entirely safe.
Older cats or those with joint pain may struggle with midair adjustments, and overweight cats face additional risks due to reduced mobility and increased inflammation.
Creating a safe home environment - such as securing windows and balconies, providing stable climbing structures, and avoiding clutter on high surfaces - can greatly reduce the risk of falls.
Encouraging gentle daily movement and play can also help maintain the agility needed for safe landings.
Understanding how the righting reflex works and its limits is essential for keeping cats safe while satisfying their natural curiosity and love of climbing.
Chewy editorial team believes every cat deserves a safe space to explore their natural instincts without risking injury.
With the right environment and thoughtful care, feline agility can shine while giving pet parents peace of mind.Cats possess a remarkable ability known as the “righting reflex,” which allows them to twist their bodies midair and often land on their feet.
