Cunning Claws
The cat's claw is a sharp appendage that is attached to the end of the toe bone. It is made of keratin, the substance our fingernails are composed of. There are five claws on the front, and four on the back. The extra claw on the front is below and slightly to the side, and is called the dewclaw.
Cat's claws which never stop growing grow in layers so cats must scratch regularly to shed dead skin sheaths. When grooming, some cats will chew their claws. This is quite normal as it helps remove the outer sheath of the claw if scratching has not removed it completely. Cats also scratch to release a unique scent that tells other cats whose territory is whose. Claws are also used in hunting, climbing, for extra traction on surfaces, or to "knead."
Cats claws can be both protracted, and then retracted, staying in the sheath of skin and fur until used. This prevents wear and tear of the claws. The Cheetah is the only cat that cannot protract its claws. It has them out permanently for added traction when it reaches high speeds.
Some cats are born with more than the normal amount of claws. These cats are known as polydactyl cats with the prefix poly- referring to many. Some breeds of cats such as the Maine Coon used to be prone to polydactylism until is was bred out for showing purposes.
Cat's claws which never stop growing grow in layers so cats must scratch regularly to shed dead skin sheaths. When grooming, some cats will chew their claws. This is quite normal as it helps remove the outer sheath of the claw if scratching has not removed it completely. Cats also scratch to release a unique scent that tells other cats whose territory is whose. Claws are also used in hunting, climbing, for extra traction on surfaces, or to "knead."
Cats claws can be both protracted, and then retracted, staying in the sheath of skin and fur until used. This prevents wear and tear of the claws. The Cheetah is the only cat that cannot protract its claws. It has them out permanently for added traction when it reaches high speeds.
Some cats are born with more than the normal amount of claws. These cats are known as polydactyl cats with the prefix poly- referring to many. Some breeds of cats such as the Maine Coon used to be prone to polydactylism until is was bred out for showing purposes.
©2012-2014 Alissa's Plethora of Cat Knowledge. Images may be subject to copyright.
