Cats meow more often when humans are present in new study
Researchers at the University of São Paulo found that domestic cats produce significantly more vocalizations when a human audience is nearby.
Food test reveals communication pattern
A team led by Naila Fukimoto tested 38 cats in their own homes to understand feline vocal habits. Owners placed favorite food inside a plastic box and then closed the lid to keep it out of reach. Each animal faced two one-minute tests where caregivers either stayed silent in the room or left the space entirely. Video calls recorded the proceedings while researchers noted the difference between having an audience and being alone.
Odds of meowing rise sharply
The presence of a human made a noticeable difference in how often cats called out for attention. When an owner was nearby, the chance of a cat meowing was roughly 16 times greater than when the animal was by itself. About 56 percent of the recorded meows occurred while the cats looked directly at their owners during these trials.
Behavior shifts without audience
Left by themselves, the creatures stood motionless and gazed at the entrance rather than making sounds. The scientists observed that felines shifted their gaze between their humans and the container of food to attract notice. The study involved a relatively small number of cats that were known to meow frequently around feeding time.
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