Oregon State University scientists have disproved the stereotype of cat indifference, finding that felines form emotional bonds with humans similar to dogs. Futura reported on the study, which used a strange situation test originally created for infants and later adapted for dogs.
Researchers placed each cat with its owner in an unfamiliar room to observe their behavior during a short separation and reunion. About 65 percent of the cats behaved confidently, calmly dividing their attention between exploring the new space and spending time with their owner. Study lead Kristyn Vitale said the research shows that cats use their owners as a source of security.
Attachment and behavior
The 65 percent rate of secure attachment matches earlier findings for dogs and human children. The study authors noted that dogs have lived with humans for more than 15,000 years, showing bright expressions of affection such as intense joy, eye contact, and dependent behavior. Cats tamed themselves and show feelings more calmly by recognizing their owner's voice, reading emotions, and altering meow intonations.
The researchers stressed that attachment levels vary based on cat personality, early socialization, and relationship quality. UNIAN previously reported that an international team analyzing 46 mammal species found animal longevity links to immune system function and brain to body size ratio. Cats live 12 to 18 years on average compared with 10 to 13 years for dogs due to their higher ratio.
