Periodically, we wonder why we have cats. The idea was most recently sparked by Peggy jumping on the dresser and knocking down a ceramic bowl. By the time you read this, she will be doing something else that makes me question my pet choices.
Unlike dogs, who depend on us for everything, including their emotional well-being, cats seem to be sociopaths. I suspect our feline companions will abandon us if they find we can’t open the food container. In fact, cats have lived among people for thousands of years, but I doubt if this did anything to tame them.
But cats may just be misunderstood. Compared to dogs, their expressions are very delicate, so many people do not understand the meaning of their gestures and actions. Recent experiments show that cats are more socially intelligent and adaptable to familiar humans than we think. These studies show that cats are like us (I know, but I can’t believe it either). In addition, genetic research is beginning to reveal what domesticated cats are really like. The findings may make you look at your Moggy in a whole new light.
Cats and dogs are the world’s most popular pets, but their behavior towards us is very different. When you come home, the dog rushes to the door excitedly, but the cat looks aloof and…
