A recent study published in PLOS ONE has found that cats can engage in fetching behaviors similar to dogs. Conducted by researchers from Purdue University and the University of Pennsylvania, the study analyzed data from two extensive behavioral surveys—the Feline Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (Fe-BARQ) and the Canine Behavioral Assessment and Research Questionnaire (C-BARQ). These surveys included responses from over 8,200 cat owners and more than 73,000 dog owners worldwide.
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The findings indicate that about 41% of cats engage in fetching behaviors "sometimes," "usually," or "always," compared to 78% of dogs. While this number is lower for cats, it may stem from the fact that dog owners more frequently initiate the game.
In terms of breed-specific behaviors, the study revealed that certain breeds are more likely to fetch. Retrievers, Spaniels, and Pointers—breeds known for their hunting capacities—were found to excel in this behavior, with genetics and training playing significant roles. For cats, the breeds most inclined to fetch are the Burmese, Siamese, and Tonkinese, suggesting a historical link to their domestication.
The study posits that the fetching behavior in cats could be an extension of their natural predatory instincts. Cats exhibit a sequence of hunting behaviors, and fetching may represent a playful iteration of these skills. Additionally, fetching may serve as an interactive playtime option, indicating a desire for engagement with humans.
Interestingly, the research found that the presence of dogs in a household could reduce the likelihood of cats participating in fetching games, perhaps due to altered play dynamics.
Notably, previous research from 2023 also suggested that fetching is a natural behavior for many cats. This raises the question of whether humans can reinforce this behavior in cats similar to how it's encouraged in dogs. Engaging in fetching with cats could be an enjoyable way to bond, particularly if it is positively reinforced through praise or rewards.
There remains much to learn about the fetching behaviors of cats, with the study highlighting the need for further research into the genetic predispositions and the human-animal bond that influence these interactions. The researchers expressed excitement at the overlapping behavioral traits of cats and dogs, suggesting that understanding these behaviors can enrich our appreciation for both species.
Journal Reference: Mikel M. Delgado et al, "Making fetch happen: Prevalence and characteristics of fetching behavior in owned domestic cats (Felis catus) and dogs (Canis familiaris)," PLOS ONE (2024). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309068.