We have always compared cats to their eternal rivals: dogs. Popular belief has always classified these animals as unsociable and aloof. A reason that made many people hate them. But what does science say? Researchers have conducted some studies. Here’s what this animal behavior expert says.
Where does this preconceived idea about cats come from?
The cat is a discreet and asocial animal. Everyone agrees on this point. But there is none no scientific evidence to support it. In fact, the sociability of dogs has always attracted the greatest curiosity among scientists. The fact is that the subject is more attractive to them.
According to some studies, dogs are more receptive to human signals. This allows them to interact more with us and makes them more social. Experts also say that this nature comes from their ancestors, gray wolves, which are sociable animals. Unlike cats.
Read
She goes to a shelter and meets 2 elderly cats, their fate changes
According to experts, cats are descended from the African wild cat. An animal uncooperative, secretive and antisocial. We therefore stuck to the nature of the latter to determine the cat’s personality without digging further. Especially since the researchers did not find the subject interesting.
Moreover, the domestic cat’s behavior does not speak in their favor. In fact, these animals are generally introverted and discreet. But over the years, researchers have investigated the reality of these cases and discovered the truth. A speculative investigation puts this belief to rest.
Are felines really antisocial?
According to Kristyn Vitalescientist at the university Unit Environment Miane, researchers have recently studied the sociability of cats. She is also the mother of three cats and works with a laboratory that studies human-animal interactions. This lab is located at Oregon State University.
The instructor, named Monique Udell, also participates in the investigations. Both scientists researched cat cognition. During this study, they discovered that cats have flexible personalities. Their social behavior depends on their personal experiencesjust like for dogs.
Read
Why do cats knead? The causes and meanings revealed
This means that cats who have had an initial experience of socialization at the right time in their lives can be sociable. It is even better if this first experience is positive. Otherwise, they may grow up to fear people and become antisocial.
Similarly, highly socialized cats may attach themselves to their master. A bond that can prove deep and stable. According to the specialist, it is enough for owners to pay attention to their companions and take care of them. They will then gradually explore this link.
Other little-known cognitive abilities of cats?
These two scientists also worked on other cat abilities. According to Kristyn Vitale, they have helped owners train more than fifty kittens between 3 and 8 months. According to Kristyn Vitale, this training is very similar to training a dog. The kittens showed up able to learn basic commands.
In fact, cats have learned to walk with a harness and leash, jump through a hoop and do other tricks. Currently, researchers are working on the ability of these animals to help children with developmental differences. Whether there are potential benefits for the child in terms of physical activity or social well-being.
Read
The 5 most loving cat breeds in the world
