How fast can a cat run?

Ever watched your cat get the “zoomies” and suddenly transform into a little furry bolt of lightning? Our speedy kitties are known for their grace, agility, and speed. Whether they’re playfully chasing a toy or making a dramatic escape from the vacuum cleaner, their quick movements never cease to amaze us. 

But how fast can a cat run? In this article, we'll explore the amazing capabilities of our whiskered friends, how they compare to their wild cat ancestors, and the reasons why a cat can run so fast.

How fast can a cat run?

When it comes to “how fast can a domestic cat run”, the average housecat can run 20 to 25 miles per hour (32 to 40 kilometers per hour). Some speedy cats can run up to 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour) – quite a bit quicker than the fastest human (Usain Bolt reached the high speed of 27.5 miles per hour).

But don’t expect your cat to run a marathon anytime soon. This speed is only maintained for short distances, usually around 50 to 100 meters. Cats are sprinters by nature, built to reach top speeds in bursts rather than long-distance running​.

Cats are among the fastest animals; wild cats, such as cheetahs, lions, and tigers, are incredibly fast. The cheetah holds the record as the fastest land animal, capable of reaching a maximum speed of up to an incredible 75 miles per hour (120 kilometers per hour). Talk about a high-speed chase!

However, like their domestic cousins, cheetahs can only maintain these speeds for short distances, typically around 200 to 300 meters​​. 

Related article: Where do cats come from? A brief history of Felis catus

Why can cats run so fast?

Our Lightning McKittens are natural sprinters and are built to be “faster than fast, quicker than quick.” Let’s peer into the main factors that help our whiskered friends become small, speedy machines:

Powerful hind legs

One of the primary reasons cats can run so fast is their powerful hind legs. These legs act like springs, giving your kitty the oomph needed to propel forward. When a cat runs, their hind legs push off the ground simultaneously, maximizing the force and distance of each stride​.

Flexible spine

A cat's spine is incredibly flexible, allowing it to stretch and contract like a coil. This flexibility allows a cat to lengthen their body for each stride, covering more ground quickly. The elastic cushioning disks in the spine also help absorb shock and aid agility and speed​​.

Sharp claws for traction

Those sharp, retractable claws aren't just for shredding your favorite chair. They dig into the ground, giving your cat the grip they need to push off and accelerate. This traction is crucial for those lightning-fast sprints and sharp, agile turns.

What influences a cat's speed?

As we know, not all cats are the same when it comes to speed. A bunch of factors come into play that influence how some cats can race ahead of others:

Breed and genetics

Certain cat breeds are naturally faster and more athletic than others. Breeds like the Egyptian Mau, Abyssinian, and Bengal are known for their speed and agility amongst house cats. These breeds have long, powerful legs and lean, muscular bodies that contribute to their impressive running skills​.

Age and health

Kittens and young cats, especially those between two and four years old, usually have the fastest running speed. As our kitties grow older, they may sadly develop joint issues like arthritis, which can slow them down. 

A cat's overall health, including weight and fitness level, can also play a role in their speed. Overweight or less active kitties won’t reach their full speed potential compared to their leaner, more energetic pals.

Related article: Run, kitty, run! The best cat exercise wheels to buy

Motivation and environment

Cats are more likely to hit their running PBs when they’re motivated to do so, such as when they’re chasing their favorite electronic cat toy or when they’re feeling threatened. 

The surface cats run on also matters. They can run faster on natural surfaces like grass or dirt, where their claws can dig in, compared to slippery surfaces like tile or hardwood floors​.

Planning a trip away, but don’t know what’s the best care option for your zoomy four-legged friend? Take a look at our trusted pet and house sitters who’ll give your kitty lots of fuss while you’re away.