are cats right or left pawed? your kitty’s dominant paw

Have you ever watched your cat swat at a toy or reach out for a treat and wondered if they have a favorite paw? Believe it or not, just like people can be right- or left-handed, cats can be right or left pawed too!

This fun little fact is more than just cute — it’s part of your cat’s unique personality. Let’s explore how scientists figured this out, how to tell your cat’s paw preference, and why it might matter.

What Does “Pawed” Mean?

“Pawed” is the animal version of “handed.” Humans use the term “handedness” to describe whether someone prefers their right or left hand for tasks. In cats, it’s about which paw they use more often to do things like:

• Bat at toys

• Step forward

• Reach into small spaces

• Hold objects

This natural preference shows up in everyday cat behavior — you just need to know what to look for!

What the Science Says

Several studies have explored this idea. One study from Queen’s University in Ireland found that most cats do show a paw preference. Over 70% of cats had a favorite paw!

Interestingly, there’s even a link between gender and pawedness:

• Male cats are more likely to be left pawed

• Female cats tend to be right pawed

Of course, not all cats follow the rule, and some are ambidextrous — meaning they use both paws equally.

How to Tell if Your Cat is Right or Left Pawed

Want to find out if your cat prefers their right or left paw? It’s easy — and fun!

Here are a few tests you can try at home:

1. The Toy Test

Place a small toy in front of your cat and watch which paw they use to reach for it. Repeat this 10–20 times to see a pattern.

2. The Treat Jar Test

Put a yummy treat inside a narrow jar or a glass. Watch which paw your cat uses to try to get the treat out.

3. The First Step Test

When your cat starts walking from a sitting position, which paw do they move first? Do this several times and take notes.

After a few days of observation, you’ll likely see a clear preference emerge!

Why It Matters

You might wonder: why does it even matter if my cat is left or right pawed? While it’s mostly just a fun fact, some researchers believe pawedness can be linked to:

• Brain function: It gives clues about which side of the brain your cat relies on more.

• Stress and behavior: Some studies suggest that right-pawed cats may be slightly more confident and adaptable.

• Training and enrichment: Knowing your cat’s dominant paw can help you design better interactive games and toys that match their style!

Fun Facts About Pawedness in Other Animals

1. Cats aren’t the only animals with paw preferences. Here are some others:

2. Dogs also show right or left pawedness.

3. Parrots can be right or left-footed!

4. Even horses tend to lead with one hoof over the other.

It turns out, pawedness is more common in the animal kingdom than we thought!

Final Thoughts

Your cat’s paw preference is just one more thing that makes them unique. Whether they’re a righty, a lefty, or somewhere in between, it’s all part of their charm.

Next time you’re playing with your kitty, take a closer look — you might just uncover a cool little secret about their personality!