GabyWithout a doubt, cats have plenty of qualities that make them lovable. For instance, their soft paw pads have inspired countless videos online. But what purpose do these pads serve for cats? The answer lies in millions of years of evolution. Jonathan Losos, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Washington, points out that most members of the taxonomic order Carnivora, which includes cats, dogs, wolves, bears, raccoons, and otters, have paw pads in one form or another. So, the real question is: why do all these animals have pads on their paws?
According to Mr. Losos, these pads likely originated around 50 million years ago, coinciding with the emergence of carnivores. The pads serve several important functions. First and foremost, they aid in running, jumping, and landing softly. They act as a sort of shock absorber, allowing cats to fall from great heights without sustaining serious injuries. Inside the pads, there is fatty tissue associated with collagen, which gives them softness and elasticity, helping to absorb impact. One study examining the structure of the pads found that they become stiffer when compressed, which helps cushion the landing.
Researchers also noted that at the cellular level, the pads are filled with elliptical pockets of fat that absorb energy and prevent instability during a fall. The cushioning provided by a cat’s paw pads is so effective that scientists have even studied them to create the best footwear for parachutists. In addition to soft landings, the pads provide excellent traction on the ground. Without these handy adaptations, carnivores would slip around on their furry paws.
Much like human fingers, cat paw pads are highly sensitive, as animal behavior consultant Amy Shojai explained to Live Science. With their pads, cats can detect the slightest temperature changes and identify different textures.
Moreover, these adaptive structures on their toes contain sweat glands. “You might notice wet paw prints when your cat is feeling stressed,” Ms. Shojai said. The sweat on the pads helps the animal regulate its body temperature.
As the expert explained, the color of the pads typically corresponds to the color of the fur, which is determined by the amount of melanin present. Darker fur suggests darker pads, while lighter fur indicates pink pads. Similarly, multicolored cats can have pads of various colors. Amy Shojai also noted that pet owners should keep an eye on their furry friend’s paw pads, as they perform vital functions. Issues such as color changes, swelling, or excessive dryness of the pads warrant a visit to the veterinarian.
According to scientists, paw pads are an evolutionary achievement honed over millions of years, enabling cats to hunt effectively and survive in their environments.
