Cats have lightning-quick reflexes that are almost impossible for the naked eye to see. While their ability to turn their bodies upright in the air is a famous example, what about their hunting speed? Unsurprisingly, cats can strike their prey extremely quickly. This Instagram post by @unreal.knowledge shows a cat hunting a mouse, grabbing it in less than a second. Read here to learn more about how quickly cats can hunt.
Cats have impressively quick reaction times.
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Cat Reaction Time
Cats are famous for their quick reaction time. An average cat’s reaction time is around 20 to 70 milliseconds, meaning that cats move faster than the blink of an eye, literally. A human blink is around 100 milliseconds, and human reaction time is around 200 milliseconds. So, compared to humans, cats seem to have superhuman speed. Their quick reactions are the result of millions of years of evolution. Cats’ good eyesight, sensitive hearing, and whiskers—which can feel the slightest movements—all contribute to their reaction time. With these physical traits, they can detect the smallest movement in prey, making them amazing hunters. They also have a sensitive nervous system that activates their muscles in a quick, twitch-like way. As shown in the video above, cats can pounce on prey in an instant.
While hunting is one of the main ways quick reflexes help cats, there are many other benefits as well. For example, avoiding danger. Cats are susceptible to predation by larger animals, making it important for them to react quickly. They can also avoid dangerous objects that may be falling toward them, or jump away when they notice a threat. Sensitive reflexes also help with their balance, allowing them to land safely from great heights. One of the most endearing ways cats use their reflexes is during play. Cats love chasing lasers and toys, as it gives them a reason to use their quick reflexes. So, while this lightning speed is essential for survival, cats also enjoy using it during playtime!
