WHAT IS CATGUT?

First of all, catgut isn't made from any part of the cat. It's a strong cord made from the intestines of various animals, chiefly sheep and horses. The membrane is first chemically treated and then thin strands are woven together into a cord that is tremendously strong.

Catgut, or gut as it is also called, is used for stringing some musical instruments such as violins and harps. It is also used on some tennis rackets although strings of plastic and other materials are finding their way into instruments and rackets.

Some experts say that the finest catgut for musical instruments is the type that is imported from Italy.  Gut is also used for some surgical sutures