Cat’s Paw Knot

The Cat’s Paw Knot is used to attach a rope, usually a sling, to a hook, swivel, or ring for heavy lifting.

It’s tied like the Cow Hitch, but you add additional twists on each side of the bight.

The big win? It evenly distributes the force across two loops. That’s why it’s popular for lifting heavy loads from ships.

This knot is so versatile that you’ll find it in fishing rigs and paracord projects.

Let’s learn it in detail.

Quick Guide

To tie the Cat’s Paw Knot, grasp the rope and fold it into two bights. Twist both the loops around themselves 2-3 times. 

Then, bring the loops close to each other and slide them through a hook.

Pull and tighten the knot.

How to Tie the Cat’s Paw Knot Step by Step

1. Make two loops with the bight of the rope.
2. Twist them around themselves.
3. Repeat the process 2 more times.
4. Bring the loops close to each other and pass them through the hook.
5. Tighten the knot.

PRO TIP

The Cat’s Paw Knot has many variations based on the number of twists you make. There’s this version called the Double Cat’s paw knot, which is often used when attaching rope to a pendant.

No Access to the Ends?

Sometimes, when you don’t have access to the ends of a ring or swivel, here’s how you can tie this knot.

First, pass the bight through the eye of the swivel or a ring. Now, pull the bight through and spread the ends apart.

Then, pass the swivel or ring into the loop until the desired number of twists is achieved

Finally, tighten the knot.

Application and Uses

• Loading and unloading heavy loads from ships, commonly used in docks and wharves.
• Loop-to-loop connection in fishing rigs
• Attaching the ring of the swivel to the monofilament double line
• Hanging pendants with paracord

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Simple and easy to tie
• Does not jam and is easy to untie

Cons

• Can deform into different knots if both sides of the line are not equal in length.

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