A study conducted by researchers from Oakland University, has found evidence that cats exhibit grief-like behaviors when they lose a close animal companion, even if it's a dog or another cat.
The observed behaviors include changes in sleeping, eating, playing habits, seeking more attention from owners, hiding, appearing to search for the lost companion, and reduced engagement in daily activities.
The intensity of these grief-like behaviors may be influenced by factors such as the duration of cohabitation with the deceased companion, the closeness of their relationship, and the owners' own grief levels, rather than witnessing the death or the number of pets in the household.
The findings challenge the misconception that cats are inherently solitary animals, as they form social structures and hierarchies in the wild.
Research on canine and feline cognition and behavior has advanced significantly, revealing their social and cognitive abilities.
The study's findings suggest that mourning is a universal psychological experience across species.
Sources: The Guardian, Yahoo News, FinanzNachrichten, Politis, BFMTV, Iefimerida, Sapo, Anlatilanin Otesi, Telex, 24.hu, Fokus, Jutarnji, Female First, DC News, Tribuna do Sertao
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.
