Do cats an dogs walk the same?

Cats and dogs are both quadrupeds, which means they have four legs. However, cats and dogs have different gaits, which are the patterns of movement of their legs.

Cat Gait: Cats walk with an alternating gait. This means that their left front leg and right hind leg move forward simultaneously, followed by their right front leg and left hind leg. This produces a smooth and silent gait that allows them to move gracefully and stealthily.

Dog Gait: Dogs walk with a diagonal gait. This means that their left front leg moves forward with their right hind leg and vice versa. The diagonal gait is generally faster and more efficient than the alternating gait, allowing dogs to cover more distance with less effort. This is why dogs are also more efficient at running than cats. Additionally, dogs have a unique ability to bound, which is a form of locomotion where both sets of legs leave the ground at the same time.

Summary:

- Cat Gait: Alternating gait with simultaneous movement of left front and right hind leg followed by right front and left hind leg.

- Dog Gait: Diagonal gait with left front and right hind leg moving forward together followed by right front and left hind leg.