According to researchers at the University of Sussex, the key to connecting with your cat lies in a subtle gesture: slow blinking of the eyes. This facial expression, often seen in relaxed and contented cats, is similar to a human smile. By imitating this behavior, owners can create a real non-verbal dialogue with their four-legged companion.
The study demonstrated that cats are more likely to respond positively when humans use this specific body language. Here are the main results:
- Cats are more likely to blink slowly back
- They show greater receptivity to interactions
- The likelihood of them approaching humans increases
Karen McComb, psychologist and cat owner, highlights the importance of this discovery: “It’s exciting to be able to scientifically confirm what many owners already suspected.”
Decoding feline expressions
Cats use a wide range of facial expressions to communicate their emotions and intentions. The slow blink, or “cat smile“, is particularly interesting because it indicates a state of relaxation and contentment. This expression is characterized by:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Eyes | Partially closed |
| Eyelids | Slow, deliberate movement |
| Regard | Gentle and non-threatening |
By reproducing this expression, humans can signal peaceful intentions and an openness to interaction. This technique is particularly useful for establishing a bond with unfamiliar or shy cats.
Improving feline well-being through communication
The discovery of this mode of communication opens new perspectives for improving the well-being of cats in various contexts. Tasmin Humphrey, a psychologist at the University of Sussex, explains: “Our study could potentially be used to assess the well-being of cats in different environments, including veterinary clinics and shelters.”
Applying this technique can have significant benefits:
- Reduced stress during vet visits
- Facilitating the adaptation of cats in shelters
- Improved daily interactions between cats and owners
- Developing a better understanding of feline needs
By learning to “speak cat”, humans can create a more harmonious environment and strengthen emotional bonds with their feline companions.
The mysteries of feline intelligence
This study is part of a larger body of research, revealing the complexity and richness of feline intelligence. Contrary to popular belief, cats are capable of form deep bonds with their owners and understand the subtleties of human communication.
Recent research has shed light on other exciting aspects of feline behavior:
- Cats are able to recognize their name, although they sometimes choose to ignore it
- They tend to reflect their owner's personality
- Their sensitivity to human emotions is more developed than previously thought
These findings highlight the importance of continuing to study this often misunderstood species. As Humphrey notes: “Understanding positive interactions between cats and humans can improve public understanding of cats and teach us more about the social-cognitive abilities of this understudied species.”
Ultimately, this simple slow blinking technique opens the door to richer, deeper communication with our feline companions, strengthening the bonds that bind us to these fascinating and mysterious creatures.
study: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-73426-0
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