Usage: The Cat’s Paw is a knot used for connecting a rope to an object such as a ring or hook. It is simple to tie and won’t jam up.

Related:

• Lark’s Head aka Cow Hitch

ABOK: 1891

Classification: Hitch

Structure: The Cat’s Paw is very similar to the Cow Hitch except there is an additional twist on each side of the bight, making it less prone to slipping. In variations, there may be multiple extra twists.

Strength/Reliability: The knot evenly distributes the force over two loops and is commonly used at wharfs and docks. If one hitch fails, the other hitch should hold until the load can be safely and swiftly lowered to the ground.