Leopards have specialized soft footpads that allow them to move in total silence.

Leopards (Panthera pardus) possess a specialized anatomical structure in their paws designed for near-silent movement. Their footpads are composed of thick, fibrous connective tissue and adipose deposits that act as shock absorbers. These pads compress under the animal's weight, distributing pressure evenly and muffling the sound of impact against the substrate.Research published in the Journal of Zoology highlights a behavior called 'registering' or 'direct registering.' This occurs when the leopard places its hind paw precisely into the footprint left by the corresponding forepaw. By doing this, the leopard only has to find a silent placement for its front feet, significantly reducing the risk of stepping on a dry leaf or snapping a twig with its rear legs.Unlike canines, leopards have fully protractible and retractable claws controlled by dorsal ligaments. During normal locomotion, these claws are held in a sheath by elastic ligaments, preventing them from making contact with the ground. This adaptation prevents the distinct clicking sounds associated with non-retractable claws and keeps the talons sharp for subduing prey.Studies by feline biologists indicate that a leopard can approach within 5 to 10 meters of its target without being detected. This extreme stealth is necessary because leopards are solitary ambush hunters that lack the stamina for long-distance chases. Their success relies almost entirely on the mechanical efficiency of their paws and their calculated, silent gait.