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What can cats do with their claws that dogs cannot do?
Question
#97456. Asked by storky1. (Jul 12 08 12:43 AM)
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elburcher
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It is a common mistake to refer to the feline claw as retractable, but this actually gives a false impression of the way in which they really work. It is when a cat is relaxed that the claw is retracted or to be more precise, sheathed. When the cat voluntarily tightens certain muscles the claws are unsheathed and ready for action. Thus the feline claws are not retractile, but rather protractile. If the latter were true the poor cat would have to keep its muscles tensed all day long.
 http://www.pawsonline.info/claws.htm
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BRY2K
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Interestingly, felines also shed their claws whilst canines do not. AND cats are the only animals that walk directly on their claws, not on their paws.
This is called digitigrades and proves a very useful feature for moving at high speeds. So, cat's claws are particularly useful for moving at high speeds.
Claws have layers of skin just as an onion does - the claws are in fact an extension of the cat's skin. The outer layer of tissue is continually growing and needs to be removed to accommodate new growth so you will often see bits of the claw spread around the area where the cat has been grooming its nails.
They shed their claws throughout the year to expose new sharp ones underneath. The claws are not only for protection but are also responsible for the cat's delicate balance and amazing feats like climbing, stretching, running, and grooming.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Learn-More-About-Your-Cats-Claws&id=1209835
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Baloo55th
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Climb..... Ever had an enthusiastic kitten that decided it wanted to come up to your level? I have. Painful
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