Researchers from the University of the West of Paris have explored how cats respond when asked to come or get attention using different cues. In a controlled setting, cats living in anti-cafes were observed as they encountered a stranger who used a mix of auditory and visual signals to call them. The study’s outcomes were published in a science magazine, offering new insights into feline communication across contexts and social situations.
The team selected a group of 12 cats residing in an anti-cafe environment and designed a simple experiment with several approaches. The stranger could call the cats by voice, simply lie down to catch their interest, remain completely still and do nothing, or combine a voice call with a coordinated gesture. These variations were meant to simulate common ways humans gain a cat’s attention in everyday life, ranging from vocal prompts to visual cues and calm body language.
The findings showed that the combination of voice and gesture produced the strongest response, with cats approaching more readily when both auditory and visual cues were present. The second most effective method was a call with a clear signal, performed without accompanying gestures. This result surprised researchers, because prior observations had suggested that cats are highly attuned to their owners voices and may respond most reliably to familiar vocal patterns rather than to strangers offering gestures.
The researchers noted that the way a communication partner addresses a cat matters greatly. A cat seems to interpret interactions with a stranger differently than those with a trusted owner, indicating that social context modulates responsiveness. An additional observation indicated that cats tend to wag their tails less when ignored entirely during an attempted interaction. In cats, tail movement can signaling agitation, tension, or discomfort, rather than the straightforward excitement seen in dogs. This nuance underscores the complexity of feline body language and the importance of timing and approach in successful engagement.
Looking ahead, the study outlines a plan to delve deeper into the subtleties of cat-human communication. Future work aims to understand how factors such as pet history, environment, and individual temperament influence the effectiveness of different social cues. The researchers hope to build a practical framework that helps cat owners and caretakers communicate more effectively, reducing stress and enhancing welfare for felines in multi-species homes and caregiving spaces. In this broader effort, the role of consistent routines, gentle tone, and predictable gestures will be examined alongside variations in voice, gaze, and physical posture, offering a more comprehensive view of how humans can better connect with their feline companions.