Time Constraints for Inter-Limb Co-Ordination in the Cat During Unrestrained Locomotion

Unrestrained walking, trotting and galloping by adult cats is analyzed cinematographically. Classical models, which have previously characterized quadrupedal gait by “idealized” footfall formulas and support durations, can be revised from the present data to specifically describe cat locomotion. The number of limbs supporting the body weight and the sequence in which they are placed on the ground are largely a function of forward speed. Even within one gait and at a given speed, however, the same cat can be observed to vary its support pattern markedly in different strides, such as a transition in mid-flight from a rotatory to a transverse gallop. On the basis of these findings we then propose that, since locomotion can thrive under a variety of conditions both across and within gaits, the locomotor control program has facultative capability.

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