So, when your cat lives with you (or, when you live with your cat!), does he assume some of your habits after a while? After all, cats do become a part of our families and do reach the point where they can and do take on some of our human habits, both the good ones and the not-so-good ones!
Certainly, a cat’s genetics does bear significant influence on behavior, but there is evidence suggesting a cat’s environment is also a factor. A study completed at the University of Messina’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine set forth research based on the observance of two groups of cats. Each group received superior care in terms of food, medical needs and grooming. The owners of these cats worked all day and returned home in the evenings. The first group of cats lived in smaller homes and stayed closer to their owners. The second group lived more of an indoor/outdoor lifestyle on larger premises. The cats in the second group were also kept outside at night.
Over time, the cats in the first group began to imitate habits of their owners in terms of eating, activity and sleep patterns. The cats that remained outdoors at night became more nocturnal and began matching the habits and behaviors of semi-independent farm cats with more of a tendency to display feral ways.
Jane Brunt, DVM and executive Director of the CATalyst Council informed Discovery News that cats do watch us and learn from us, observing the patterns of our actions, as evidenced by their understanding of where we keep their food and at what time they expect to be fed. They also know where the feeding and toileting areas are located.
Also, cats seem to mimic the dietary habits of their owners in that their food intake is often associated with that of their owners, which might explain why both human and cat obesity rates often tend to match. Taken one step further, cats can even begin to match the elimination habits of their owners.
Then there is the personality of the cat. He can be arrogant, social, shy, trusting, calm, timid, aggressive, enthusiastic, dominant or curious. All of these traits can also be applied to humans and it has been suggested through studies not all cat personalities are solely formed by genetics.
Additionally, even though cats are known for their solitary ways, they are also social animals, and when people comprise their main social group, owners must realize they are the role model and should encourage proper play and prey techniques for their cats. It has been shown when owners take the time to play with their cats, those cats are usually more motivated to remain active.
Then there is the flip side of this coin. While we may influence our cats, our cats can influence us, as well. Think about this: Do you often adjust your schedule to fit the schedule of your cat, such as awakening earlier and responding to your cat’s needs?
Finally, you can thank your cat for teaching you to relax and channel inner peace and meditation, just like they do when the curl up on your lap and gently purr with a steady, comforting and rhythmic breathing pattern.
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
