Who said cats don't have feelings? Science proves otherwise (at least for some)

A Studying Conducted by the University of Auckland and published in the journal Applied Animal Behavior ScienceResearchers have analyzed the behavior of cats after the loss of an animal companion, and it appears that they too can go through a period of mourning.

The researchers collected testimonials from 412 cat owners across various online platforms, including groups FacebookFacebook And lists broadcastbroadcastOn their relationship to the deceased pet and to the surviving cats. Respondents were asked to have had a deceased pet while at least one cat was living in their home.

Unexpected behaviors in cats

Contrary to the image often attributed to cats as isolated and independent animals, the results of the study showed significant behavioral changes in grieving cats. Immediately after the loss, some cats experienced sleep disorderssleep disordersloss of appetite and frequent meowing. Others become more demanding of their owners, give up favorite toys, or show an increased need for attention.

In about two-thirds of the cases studied, the deceased animal was another cat, while the other animals were dogs. The longer the relationship with the lost pet, the more the surviving cats sought attention from their owners after the death. However, witnessing the death or the number of pets in the household had no significant effect.

However, reactions are mixed.

However, these behavioral changes remain very minor and do not affect all cats. I think cats can be indifferent to some family members. On the other hand, some cats are very attached. But, you know, some of our people don't like each other at all. Their quality of life may improve when their companion dies.“This is a very important point,” concludes Jennifer Funk, professor of comparative and cognitive psychology at the University of Auckland and co-author of the study. Times.