#1 Our cats are digitigrade
The front paws of our cats have five toes, with the thumb retracted. However, they only walk on four of these five toes, with the thumb positioned a bit higher.
#2 They walk on tiptoe
You’ve probably noticed, our little ninjas walk quickly and silently. That’s because they move on the tips of their toes (to surprise you better!).
#3 The pads are sensitive
Each pad has a special name. We have digital pads, which are the ones on the toes. There's also the central pad on the front paws, called the metacarpal, the one on the back paws, called the metatarsal, and finally, the small pad positioned higher on the front paws, called the carpal.
Your cat's pads allow it to gather information about the environment it moves in. But the pads of our cats are also sensitive in the sense that they sometimes need care. Like us, cats can, for example, burn or cut themselves. If your cat is injured, don't hesitate to make an appointment with your vet.
#4 Claw removal is forbidden
It is even considered an act of mutilation! Declawing or onychectomy involves permanently removing a cat's claws. This practice - banned in France - is unfortunately still common in some countries, like the United States or Canada.
#5 The paws of our cats have unique colors
Just like the color of their fur, the pigmentation of their adorable little pads varies from one cat to another.
#6 Some cats are polydactyl
A polydactyl cat, or hyperdactyl, is simply a cat with extra toes. Some breeds are more affected by this genetic mutation than others, such as the Maine Coon and the Pixie-Bob.
#7 It "kneads" or "pats"
This little fun dance is a behavior deeply ingrained in the genetic heritage of our cats. Your cat stretches its paws simultaneously on a soft blanket, directly on your lap, or on your stomach.
Generally, a cat will knead when it is happy and feels relaxed.
#8 Our cats sweat through their pads!
We often imagine that our little companions don’t sweat. Yet, they do have sweat glands located under their paws, specifically between the pads. This is why we recommend wetting their paws to cool them down in hot weather.
#9 Their paws are a means of communication
By moving and scratching, your cat marks its territory discreetly. The sweat glands under its paws allow it to release pheromones, which contain a lot of information about your cat itself.
#10 Sphynx cats have thicker pads
Sphynx cats have a very particular gait, and that’s simply because their pads are thicker than those of other cats!
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