Mike Casey-Head

10 fun facts about cats paws you may not know. 1. Unlike dogs, cats have retractable claws. This means they can pull their claws back into their paws when they're not needed, keeping them sharp for hunting or self-defense. 2. Cats have scent glands in their paws. When they scratch or knead, they're not just exercising or making a comfy spot; they're also marking their territory with their unique scent. 3. Each toe of a cat's paw has a digital pad. These pads, along with the larger central pad, help cats grip surfaces, providing traction for climbing or running. 4. Cats knead with their paws from kittenhood, a behavior believed to stem from nursing where they knead their mother's mammary glands to stimulate milk flow. This continues into adulthood as a form of comfort or affection. 5. The claws of cats are covered by a tough, protective sheath which is shed periodically. You might find these tiny, hard casings around your home. 6. A cat's front paws often have five toes, while the back paws usually have four. However, some cats have extra toes due to a genetic condition known as polydactyly. 7. The paws of cats can detect temperature changes. They might prefer to sleep in warm spots because they can feel the warmth through their paws. 8. The sharp claws and strong paws are not just for climbing; they're also formidable weapons. A cat can deliver a powerful swipe if threatened or when hunting. 9. Cats use their paws to lick clean. They wet their paws with saliva and use them like a washcloth to clean their faces and ears, which they can't reach directly with their tongues. 10. Cats are digitigrade, meaning they walk on their toes with the back part of the foot and heel raised off the ground. This gives them speed and stealth, perfect for a predator.

The dog who ate a glowing toy