Cats have a reputation for being both mysterious and quirky. In fact, they have worked very hard at building up their reputations as cold hearted killers! Scientists have typically had a hard time deciphering kitty behaviors and traits, in large part because Fluffy often refuses to cooperate in studies. However, some recent studies have revealed some interesting things about our mysterious (and adorable) feline friends. A local vet lists some of the key ones below.
Y es, Fluffy Loves You
We can’t help but joke about how cold and calculating cats are; it’s just too easy. However, that really isn’t the case. A study done in 2019 showed that our feline pals really love their humans. The study looked at 70 kitties. The furballs were put into rooms with their owners for two minutes. They were then left alone for two minutes, before their owners returned. Upon seeing their people again, the kitties showed signs that researchers classified as demonstrating ‘secure attachment’ to their owners. Of course, this is old news to anyone with an affectionate, cuddly feline!
In Fact, Fluffy Loves You More Than Food. Sorta.
Another study of kitty behavior looked into whether cats prefer food to attention. The results were quite surprising! This study, done in 2017 by researchers at Oregon State University, tested both pet kitties and shelter cats. The cats were given a choice of what they wanted to do: eat, play, or get attention from humans. Most of the cats wanted attention more than food, which was the second choice.
Fluffy Does Know Her Name
This study, done in 2019, monitored 78 kitties to see if they gave any reaction when their names were called. As researchers watched, cat owners said five words. One word was the kitty’s name, while the other four were just generic, similar-sounding words. In a variation, they had strangers tell the cats the same words. As it turned out, Fluffy did respond differently when she heard her name. Of course, this would also mean that yes, your furry pal does sometimes ignore you when you call her.
They’re Good For Us
Did you know that people with cats tend to have better mental health than those who don’t have feline pals? The affection, comfort, companionship, and, of course, live entertainment kitties provide is actually very beneficial to us! Other benefits of having a kitty include better sleep, less anxiety, and lower hypertension. Fluffy may very well be the purrfect pet. But, then again, we already knew that!
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