Cats are known for their sharp claws, which they use for hunting, climbing, and self-defense. They can be deadly to a mouse and hurt you, if you get in the way of them.
But there are different types of claws. We’ll take a look at the different claws and how they are used. We’ll also look at some exotic cats’ claws.
Cats Use Their Claws Daily
Even though your indoor kitty might not be using claws to hunt (except for that stuffed mouse and string), they still use their claws daily.
If they have a cat tree, they’re climbing with their claws. Or, you may have noticed that they often use their claws on your furniture. They’re not sharpening their claws, but marking their territory. They have scent glands in their paws. And they’re leaving their scent on your sofa.
And beyond self-defense, cats use their claws for stretching. They scratch on a surface (like your rug) to help stretch their back and leg muscles.
7 Types of Cat claws
- Curved claw: This is the most common type of claw found on cats. You’ll notice it when you look at a cat’s claws and see they are curved downward. It is found on each of the cat’s digits and is used for various tasks, including climbing, hunting, and self-defense. They are made of a hard protein called keratin.
- Dewclaw: This claw is found on the inside of the cat’s leg, near the ankle. Most cats have two dewclaws on their front paws, but some cats also have them on their hind paws. They are not used often but can sometimes be helpful if a cat needs to grip something tightly. Most cats never use them.
- Retractable claw: Most cat’s claws are retractable, meaning they can be pulled back into a protective sheath when not in use. When the cat needs its curved claw, it can extend it quickly and easily.
- Polydactyl claw: Some cats have an extra digit on their front paws, which can have its own claw.
- Hooked claw: This type of claw is used by cats that hunt and kill prey by holding onto it with their claws. It is longer and more curved than a standard curved claw.
- Specialized claw: Certain breeds of cats have specialized claws for specific tasks, such as climbing or scratching. For example, the Cheetah breed has longer and sharper claws, while the Bengal breed has extra strong and durable claws.
- Non-retractable claw: While most cats have retractable claws, some breeds such as the Cheetah and Iriomote cat have non-retractable claws which make them better climbers and hunters.
Here’s another kitty article you’ll like: Does it Hurt to Trim Cats’ Claws: 8 Tips to Make it Easier
Understanding the different types of claws on cats can help you better care for your kitty and provide appropriate scratching surfaces for them to use. It is important to trim your cat’s claws regularly to prevent them from becoming overgrown and causing injury.