If a cat requires leverage to reach elevated surfaces the spine and shoulders will work in unison to provide an explosive bounce of energy, almost akin to that of a spring.
Jumping and landing are by nature different mechanics but the body of a cat is able to adjust and align its centre of gravity. Muscle and flexibility in the air allows quick adjustment and the spring dynamic will come into play when falling. These flexible and powerful attributes of the cat body makes it a prime hunter.
