Graceful, independent cats and loyal dogs have been accompanying humans for thousands of years. There are a lot of fundamental differences in their behavior, which are caused not only by anatomy, but by a way of life.
But we will not go too deep, but let us consider a simpler question: why do cats climb trees and not dogs?
Physiological differences
To climb a tree, a cat actively uses its claws. With her, they can be released or retracted. The shape and structure of cat's claws is unique. Their crescent shape and pointed tips allow the cat to cling to various surfaces without difficulty.
This peculiarity is peculiar only to feline, dogs are completely devoid of it. Dog claws are more straight, with blunt tips. In addition, they are not pulled into the clutches. They are definitely not suitable for climbing trees.
The next difference is the structure of the skeleton. Feline is ideal for performing acrobatic stunts and climbing trees. Thanks to the elastic bonding of the bones, the cat almost instantly climbs up, very cleverly maneuvering between the branches. Her cervical vertebrae are connected so movably that she can turn her head in all directions with almost no limits. Dogs can only dream of such flexibility. They can’t even turn around in a narrow space, but simply back off.
The tail helps to maintain balance.It is quite flexible, long and agile. Scientists have even advanced the theory that it helps to land on its feet when falling from a height. Dogs most often use their tail to communicate with the owner. During the fall, they are unable to change the position of the body, quickly turning over and gently landing on their feet.
Feature in the structure of paws and clavicles
The joints of the paws are very movably jointed, so for a confident movement she needs a very small point of support. This allows you to confidently move along the fence or branches. In addition, strong, well-developed tendons and muscles allow you to jump from a great height and land gently. From the side it looks like powerful springs in the cat's paws.
Behavioral Features
Passion for climbing trees in cats in the blood. By their nature, they are born predators, the main tactics of their hunting lies in wait. Climbing a tree, they lurk there, waiting for a convenient moment to attack. In addition, there are always birds there, which for cats are a real treat. Dogs are also hunters, only their main pursuit tactics, and therefore, they do not need to hide.
Even after catching the prey, the cat very often returns to the tree. There she can safely enjoy a meal away from natural enemies and hungry tribesmen. After a hearty dinner in the shade of the branches you can sleep peacefully, height is a natural defense against various troubles. Dogs, unlike cats, are often afraid of heights. Therefore, we are not even talking about hunting or resting at altitude.Their lifestyle is fully designed to stay only on earth.
According to zoopsychologists, the tree for cats is a separate world with its secrets and rules. To pamper the pet, some owners in the apartment set claws in the form of a tree. Dogs do not need such entertainment, they need a soft, comfortable lounger.
Having taken a position on a tree, the cat can notice in time the approach of its main enemy dog or hostile tribesman. Until they see him, he can slowly disappear or prepare for defense. Dogs do not need such tactics. They have no enemies at home.
To summarize
Cats use claw features to climb trees. Dog claws are not intended for this. The cat's skeleton is very flexible, lightweight, it allows you to dodge and bend in all possible directions. The canine is more powerful, it is designed for active movement on the ground.
Strong, flexible legs help cats climb and descend easily. They allow them to jump from a sufficiently high height without harming their health. The dog, however, even when jumping from a 2 meter height, can be seriously damaged.
Cats are awaiting predators, dogs are haunting. Accordingly, the former often use trees as shelters. For cats, the tree is also fun, where they can practice acrobatic skills or simply survey the surroundings from a safe distance. For dogs, the best entertainment is an active game with the owner.
