Cats have a unique way of communicating with humans through their meows, a behavior that has evolved over thousands of years. While cats were originally solitary animals, they began to develop closer bonds with humans as they started living alongside us in settlements. This change in behavior allowed cats to thrive and adapt to living with humans, essentially domesticating themselves over time.
Similar to the selective breeding experiments with silver foxes, cats have also adapted their vocalizations to communicate with humans. A study by animal behavior researcher Karen McComb found that cats use a high-pitch component in their purrs when seeking food, resembling a cry that taps into our sensitivity to distress sounds. This adaptation helps cats effectively communicate their needs to humans, making it nearly impossible for us to ignore them.
Furthermore, humans have also adapted their way of communicating with cats through pet-directed speech, similar to how we use “motherese” or baby talk when interacting with infants. Cats are able to distinguish between speech addressed to them and speech addressed to adults, showing a strong pattern of discrimination, especially when the speech comes from their owners. This form of communication reinforces the bond between humans and cats, mirroring the interactions between mother and kitten.
Not only have cats adapted their vocalizations to solicit care and attention from humans, but they have also evolved to use vocal signals that resonate with our nurturing instincts. This two-way communication highlights the unique relationship we have developed with our feline friends, with cats seemingly being the winners in this dynamic. Despite this, many cat owners wouldn’t have it any other way and enjoy the special bond they share with their furry companions.
Dr. Grace, a Lecturer in Animal Welfare and Behaviour at Queen’s University Belfast, conducts research on farm animal welfare, particularly focusing on harmful behaviors in pigs and post-mortem indicators of welfare. She also explores cat welfare, the psychology of pet-keeping, and strategies for improving human behavior to enhance animal welfare. Through her work, Grace aims to promote the well-being of animals and foster better human-animal relationships.
