The misconception that cats are solitary animals

Something I seem to hear rather frequently is that cats are solitary; this is not entirely accurate. As with people some cats are happier in their own company but others aren’t, and it’s difficult to know which one your cat is a lot of the time.

Studies with feral colonies brought surprising information for an animal that people generally assume to be aloof and anti-social. Females that have given birth closely together are known to take it in turns mothering the kittens while hunting duties are performed. This indicates that there’s a feeling of closeness and protectiveness not only to their young, but also to each others.

Even when a cat is showing signals they are uncomfortable being given attention by a human, it’s not always the case. Sometimes the time the person is giving them may feel too much if they aren’t used to interaction. It doesn’t mean they aren’t happy with company. Other times, people touch areas cats are sensitive about being touched and they illustrate that so people assume they don’t want the contact.

What should be considered is; does company have to be physical contact?

Recently, a young entire tom has started visiting our home. He’s war torn and nervous; growls when you approach him, and vocalises he’s unsure if you try and get him to approach a food bowl placed “too closely” to you. Yesterday, we went through this but eventually met a compromise of me moving the bowl a little way away from me. He came and started eating his food, so I tentatively stretched out a hand. He visibly tensed up, but as I gently started stroking his head between his ears he miraculously stopped tensing and carried on eating.

I don’t think this boy wants to be alone. I think someone has left him to free roam and given him little opportunity to socialise with people, so the concept is alien to him. He showed no signs of fear or discomfort after the initial tensing, just accepted his role of being recognised as an animal worth spending time with.

I believe cats are not, by nature solitary animals. Like us, they have times they want to be by themselves; but that’s not all the time. Learning to read your cats’ mood is a vital piece of ensuring they get the attention they require from you and is crucial to building a strong friendship.

Visitor cat Mim, making it known he’s hungry…