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| Cheetah claws are actually semi-retractable and aid in acceleration. Naturally, over time they become blunted from wear. The paws are less rounded and harder than other cats' and help the cheetah make quick turns. The "thumb" claw or dew claw (above left) is positioned back of the other 4 and higher. This claw is used to hook prey during the chase. Cheetahs are actually named for the dew claw. Their scientific name - Acinonyx - was coined in 1828 by Joshua Brooks from the Greek words "akaina" which translates as "thorn" or "goad" and "orux" which means "claw". | ||||||
| See also: Vs. Horse, Prints, Stride, Speed, Can You Prove It? |
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