Question

What is a cat’s ability to orient itself while falling in order to land on its feet?

Answer 1

Cats have an incredible ability to orient themselves while falling in order to land on their feet. This is known as the ‘righting reflex’ and it is believed to be the result of their flexible spines and their ability to sense the direction of gravity. Cats can also twist their bodies while in mid-air to ensure they land on their feet.

Answer 2

The cat righting reflex is a cat's innate ability to orient itself as it falls in order to land on its feet. The righting reflex begins to appear at 3–4 weeks of age, and is perfected at 6–9 weeks.