Cat research is our favorite field of science (just after dog facts). We’ve compiled some of our top cat-related facts, so enjoy these 8 purrfect tidbits about our feline friends confirmed by science.
1. You can befriend your cat by blinking slowly
Studies indicate this method is effective for building a bond with your cat.
Researchers from the University of Portsmouth and the University of Sussex discovered that slow blinking mimics what are known as “cat smiles” or “slow links,” which helps foster connections between humans and cats.
“It’s wonderful to explore animal behavior and validate this form of communication between cats and their owners,” said Professor Karen McComb, who led the study at the University of Sussex’s Faculty of Psychology.
“Many cat owners have suspected this instinctively, so it’s exciting to find scientific evidence.”
Try softening your gaze with a relaxed smile and gently closing your eyes for a few seconds; you may notice your cat reciprocating and initiating some form of interaction!
The research found that owners were more likely to blink slowly after their cats did, compared to instances where there was no interaction at all.
2. One in ten pet cats suffer from separation anxiety
In a study surveying ten pet cats, it was noted that several displayed behavioral issues when temporarily separated from their owners.
Researchers focused on cats exhibiting signs of anxiety when isolated, and found that many belonged to households predominantly with women or without female residents.
The absence of toys and lack of companion animals in the home were also linked to similar behavioral issues in cats.
Owners provided details about each cat, including interaction patterns, behaviors exhibited during their absence, and the living environment of the cats.
The analysis revealed that 13.5% of cats displayed one or more traits associated with separation anxiety, with destructive behavior being the most frequently reported (20 out of 30 cats).
Other observed traits included excessive vocalization (19 cats), inappropriate urination (18 cats), aggression (11 cats), agitation (11 cats), anxious behaviors (11 cats), and inappropriate defecation (7 cats).
Significant signs of depression, such as lethargy and loss of interest, were documented in 16 cats with anxiety-related problems.
3. Your cat truly loves you
While food may be the initial bond between humans and cats, it doesn’t mean they see you merely as a can opener.
Chemical analysis of ancient cat bones from 5,300 years ago in China shows that these felines were rodent hunters in grain storage areas, indicating a mutual relationship as both provided shelter and pest control.
Over time, especially in Western culture, the bond became more affectionate, hinting at something deeper than simple food dependency.
Much like dogs, cats also exhibit behaviors that indicate attachment, such as bringing home prey or engaging in playful interactions. These actions go beyond mere survival; they’re expressions of familial affection.
A September 2019 study suggested that cats show “secure attachment” traits similar to those found in dogs, where the presence of human caregivers fosters feelings of security and calm.
Furthermore, studies suggest that when a cat snuggles up to you, the same brain hormones are triggered as when we’re around our loved ones. It seems that cats might just rival dogs for the title of “human’s best friend.”
4. Cats can sense an approaching thunderstorm
Cats, along with many other animals, possess heightened sensitivity to sounds, smells, and changes in atmospheric pressure, allowing them to detect storms before humans do.
Before a storm, a cat’s inner ear can sense drops in atmospheric pressure, and they may associate this with impending rain. They may even hear distant thunder or detect scents of rain or ozone, which is produced by lightning and has a characteristic metallic aroma.
5. Cats love boxes for their comfort
Cats can sleep up to 18 hours a day, making them solitary creatures in need of cozy hiding spaces for rest.
A box not only offers a snug retreat but also shields them from cold surfaces, as cats are most comfortable at around 14°C—much cooler than the human ideal.
6. Pet cats significantly affect local wildlife
Research indicates that domestic cats may kill more prey in certain areas than their wild counterparts.
A March 2020 study revealed that hunting domestic cats can greatly impact wildlife populations, particularly within a 100m radius of their homes.
The study found that pet cats kill 2-10 times more wildlife than animals of comparable size in the wild.
Lead researcher Roland Kays stated, “Feeding domestic cats reduces their hunting frequency, yet their small home ranges mean any impact on local prey is highly concentrated.”
In addition, some regions experience unnaturally high cat populations, further threatening birds and small mammals.
The findings show that cats kill an average of 14.2 to 38.9 animals per 100 acres or hectares each year, with even greater effects observed in disrupted habitats like urban areas.
7. Cats cannot thrive on a vegan diet
In the wild, cats are strict carnivores, requiring certain essential amino acids like taurine that are only present in meat. These cannot be synthesized or stored, making it crucial for vegan cat diets to be carefully managed according to their age and weight.
Insufficient taurine can lead to serious health issues like blindness and heart disease, while excessive amounts can trigger urinary tract problems. Though carnivorous cats naturally absorb all necessary taurine from their diet, synthetic taurine found in vegan cat food may be metabolized differently, complicating the creation of balanced vegan meals for them.
8. Cats’ whiskers aid in precision hunting
The “whiskers” surrounding a cat’s face, known scientifically as vibrissae, comprise approximately 24 movable hairs and are complemented by additional whiskers located above their eyes, on their chin, and on the back of their paws. These sensitive hairs contain deep-rooted nerves critical for hunting, particularly in low-light conditions.
The whiskers are tailored to the cat’s body width, enhancing their ability to gauge distances while moving. They also provide sensory feedback on the direction and texture of prey, while monitoring airflow to fine-tune movements. It’s no wonder that your cat is such an elegant predator!
Discover more Amazing Animal Facts:
Source: www.sciencefocus.com
