The Strange Physics That Explains How Cats Always Land On Their Feet

The Science of Low Terminal Velocity

Cats also benefit from a relatively low terminal velocity, which is the maximum speed an object reaches as it falls through the air. Due to their small size and light weight, cats experience less gravitational pull compared to larger animals. Additionally, their bodies are shaped in a way that increases air resistance, slowing their descent. This lower terminal velocity reduces the impact force upon landing, giving cats more time to reorient themselves during a fall. The combination of low terminal velocity and the righting reflex significantly enhances a cat's ability to survive falls from considerable heights, a phenomenon often referred to as the "cat's paradox."