Most cat owners are familiar with their furry friends communicating through meows and purrs. However, cats are often perceived as aloof, only occasionally blinking or twitching their ears. In reality, they are much more expressive than we previously thought. A recent study has found that cats have almost 300 facial expressions that they use to communicate with other felines - ranging from sweet smirks to hostile hissy faces.
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The study was carried out by Lauren Scott and Brittany N. They captured footage of a colony of 53 cats residing in a cat cafe in Los Angeles. The researchers paid special attention to the facial expressions made by the cats to communicate with other felines after the cafe had closed for the day.
Over 10 months, they recorded 276 different expressions of the cats. Each expression combined an average of four out of 26 unique facial movements, which included parted lips, dilated or constricted pupils, blinking, nose licks, and ear positions. Based on their observations, Scott and Florkiewicz concluded that 45% of the expressions were friendly, while 37% were perceived as distinctly aggressive. The remaining 18% was ambiguous or could be read in either way.
Cats may not speak the same language as humans, but researchers have identified certain behaviours that indicate how they communicate with each other. During friendly interactions, cats tend to move their ears and whiskers toward other felines.
It turns out that cats are more expressive than we originally believed!
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One particular interaction that the researchers observed involved two cats who were playing together before one suddenly crouched down and hissed at the other before running away. This sudden behaviour change is a common sign of aggression in cats.
Despite the mystery surrounding cats' expressions, the researchers found that they share a common play face with humans, dogs, and other creatures. This involves the corners of the mouth being drawn back with the jaw lowered to form an open smile.
The findings of this study could lead to a greater understanding of cat behaviour, and potentially improve the bond between cats and humans. Owners could have a better understanding of their pets' needs and feelings, and it could also help when adopting a new cat. With further research, we may gain a deeper understanding of cats and their behaviour in the future.
A recent study found that cats have almost 300 facial expressions that they use to communicate with other felines.
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For 10 months, researchers recorded 276 different expressions among 53 felines living in a cat cafe in Los Angeles. About 45% of the expressions were friendly, while 37% came across as distinctly aggressive.
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