[v_{T} = \sqrt{\frac{2mg}{C\rho_{air} A}} ] Let us calculate the terminal velocity of a cat using the following values. m = 5 kg ρair = 1.29 kg/m3 C = 1.1 A = 0.1 m2 g = 9.81 m/s2 Plugging them in, we get Thus, a cat has a terminal velocity of approximately 60 mph. A cat can sense when she is accelerating, and her instincts kick in. She will rotate and let herself to a position to brace for landing. Past studies have shown that a cat falling from a 32 stories tall building will achieve terminal velocity until she has fallen through a height equivalent to five stories. During the fall, she relaxes by splaying her legs and taking the spread-eagle stance. This position gives her a large surface area, brings her to terminal velocity, and allows her to absorb the impact.
