"With cats of all species being commonly housed in human care, it is important to know that they differentiate familiar from unfamiliar human voices"
In the Press
Big cats can tell apart known and unknown human voices, study finds
Scientists Discover Exotic Cats Have 'Remarkable Ability'
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Exotic Cats Can Distinguish Human Voices, More Responsive to People Familiar to Them [Study]
Captive big cats can tell voices apart
For All Readers - AI Explainer
What was the main focus of the study?
The study aimed to investigate whether exotic cats could distinguish between the voices of people they knew and those they didn’t.
What were the key findings?
Researchers discovered that these cats responded differently to familiar voices, showing more interest and attention compared to unfamiliar ones.
Did the cats’ history with humans or the use of their names make a difference?
Having been raised by humans, rather than being mother-reared did not have a significant impact. The study found that what mattered most was how well they knew the human voice. They did not respond more strongly when their name was used.
Why is this research important?
Understanding how cats perceive and interact with humans can inform better care practices in places like zoos and sanctuaries. It also provides insights into their natural behaviour, aiding conservation efforts to protect their habitats and populations.
What’s the main takeaway from this study?
Exotic cats possess social abilities that allow them to recognize and respond to familiar voices, similar to our pet cats at home. This highlights the importance of considering their social cognition in captive and wild settings alike.
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