The black-footed cat, found in the deserts of southern Africa, and the Arctic fox have thick fur on the bottoms of their feet. Which statement best describes how the thick fur on the bottoms of their feet most likely benefits these animals in their environments?
1. The fur helps them climb trees
2. The fur reduces the chance of infection.
3. The fur protects them from the surfaces on which they walk
4. The fur helpd conserve energy and maintain body temperature