For decades, cats have taken a back seat to dogs in terms of their perceived intelligence, emotional range and ability to bond with us. But now, feline science is pushing back. While cats have a different social demeanor than dogs, new research is revealing that they, like their canine counterparts, need plenty of play, affection, communication and true love from human moms and dads. If you ever thought a pet cat would need less interaction and attention than a dog, science has proven that’s not the case. In fact, today’s cats, many of whom show evidence of the dominant gene for sociability, may be even more like dogs—and like us—than cats of the recent past. But as much as modern cats have changed to fit our lives, they still need homes that respect their evolutionary past. This issue takes a deep dive into all of it, explaining how cats have been altered to fit in our world—and what we must do, in turn, to create a home that is comfortable and natural for them.
Editor’s Note
CATS AMONG US • Felines and humans have co-evolved for thousands of years. Life together has changed us all.
Cutest Kitties • A childlike countenance, a joyous sense of play and a gratified purr bring out the caregiver in us.
From Solo to Hypersocial • The rapid spread of a gene for friendliness may be making today’s cats far more convivial and attached to their owners than felines of the past.
Home Alone • Cats can get scared and anxious when you leave them by themselves, much like dogs.
The Brilliance of Cats • They can tune in to the emotions of human companions, recognize your facial expressions—and do math.
Feline Friends
How We Changed the Feline’s Face (and Hurt Our Ability to Read It) • Some cats have trouble expressing feelings because years of breeding have flattened their features.
FUR PARENTING • Humans can ensure their cat kids are healthier and happier by making it easier for them to inhabit our world.
Happy Cats • Master the new tools of feline science at home to become a better companion, parent and pal to your furry friend.
Myth Busting • Feline science is challenging these common misperceptions about cats.
How to Give Your Pet a Stress-Free Bath • Most cats groom themselves. Occasionally, your furry friend may need some assistance.
In the Drink • You may have watched countless videos of cats batting water with their paws, going for a swim or taking cover to avoid getting wet. But here are a few things about cats and water you probably didn’t know.
Should You Tickle? • If you’re going to tease your cat or rub her belly, do so with care. Here’s how to touch both body and mind.
The Good Touch • How to pet and please your cat.
COMMUNICATING WITH CATS • They respond to our words, our touch, our eye contact—and even the music in our homes.
Across the Ages • When you want to get a message across, modulate your delivery to the life stage of your cat.
Meeting Senior Needs • How to soothe, comfort and talk to your older cat.
Music to Their Ears • How to understand, find and enjoy music composed specifically for cats.
Music Therapy for Felines
Eye to Eye • To win your cat’s heart, practice the art of the slow blink.
Breaking the Ice • How to start a nonstaring session.
OUTSIDE LIVES • They thrive in colonies and prowl neighbors’ yards. Here’s what we know about how cats act when they’re not indoors.
Saving Community Cats • So you think they’re a nuisance? Trapping cats, neutering them and returning them to their lives in the neighborhood offers hope for feral felines.
Tips for Compromising With Upset Neighbors
The Vacuum Effect
Predator on the Block • Video cameras exposing the secret...
