A recent study published in Animal Cognition has revealed that cats can distinguish their owners' voices from those of strangers. Researchers from Paris Nanterre University discovered that cats respond more actively to their owners when spoken to in a high-pitched tone, often similar to the way one might talk to a baby.
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The study involved observing 16 cats and their reactions to pre-recorded sentences spoken by their owners and by strangers. The researchers noted the cats' behavioral changes, such as ear and tail movements, changes in activity, and pupil dilation, which indicate attentiveness.
When they heard their owner's voice, 10 out of the 16 cats displayed significant reactions, suggesting they were engaged. Conversely, the cats were largely unresponsive to a stranger's voice. The results showed that the cats were particularly interested when their owners used a tone meant for addressing them, while they did not react similarly to strangers speaking in that same tone or when their owners used a standard conversational tone directed at another adult.
Lead researcher Charlotte de Mouzon emphasized that previous beliefs about cats being independent and primarily interested in humans for food and shelter are now being challenged. She noted that the specific reactions from cats toward their owners indicate a bond between pets and their people. De Mouzon mentioned that she speaks to her own cats as if they were children and has observed their responsiveness. She believes this type of interaction helps strengthen the connection between cats and their owners.