Understanding the memory of our four-legged companions: a complex system
Cats, those little balls of fur that enchant us with their purrs, have a complex memory. On the one hand, they have a short-term working memory, useful for tasks that require immediate concentration and application, and on the other, a long-term memory that enables them to remember important people and places, and even certain actions or behaviors. Yet these fascinating creatures seem to forget a few things very quickly. This begs the question: can a cat really forget its owner?
The super powers of the cat’s brain: selective memory, really?
It’s quite common to believe that cats have a selective memory. In other words, they only remember what is relevant to them at a given moment. In fact, according to recent neuroscience studies, cats are able to remember events, places and people for many years thanks to their exceptional memory. This long-term memory can last up to 16 hours, well beyond the two-minute average of other animals.
According to this research, for a cat to retain information, it is crucial that it be associated with a strong emotion or a significant event. This could explain why they are able to remember certain places or people that are particularly important in their lives.
Daily activities: do cats really remember everything?
Cats are used to a certain order and routine in their daily lives. They remember the location of their favorite food, litter and toys. Their feeding schedules, the position of their accessories, the location of their resting areas, are all engraved in their memory. A simple change in these routines can disorientate them.
But beyond their menu and toys, cats are able to remember other elements of their environment. They also know who has fed, brushed, cared for or pampered them. In short, cats retain a clear memory of the people who cared for them and gave them comfort and affection.
Owner-cat relationships: does your cat remember you?
The question of whether a cat can recognize and remember its owner is a common concern among cat lovers. Fortunately, research tends to show that yes, cats are capable of remembering their owners. It’s important to note that their memory is based not only on visual recognition, but also on smell and sound.
The affection and attention you lavish on your cat have a decisive influence on how well he remembers you. Cats are sensitive to emotions and can sense love, affection and even stress or tension in their owners. So the closer you are to your cat and the more time you spend with him, the more he’ll remember you.
Is absence good for us? What happens when you leave your cat for a while?
What happens if you have to be away for an extended period? Is your cat’s memory strong enough to remember you? In reality, it’s difficult to answer this question with any certainty. However, it seems that cats are able to recognize their owner’s absence.
If you leave your cat alone for a long time, she may be suffering from separation anxiety, which can manifest itself in behaviors such as excessive scratching, constant meowing or restlessness. When you return, your cat may show signs of comfort, such as rubbing or purring, to show how happy she is to have you back. However, every feline is unique and will react differently depending on its temperament and the nature of your relationship.
The secrets of your cat’s memory deciphered, what to remember?
In short, cats have an impressive memory, enabling them to remember certain people, places and events for many years. Although cats have a selective memory, this doesn’t mean they can forget their owners. On the contrary, their relationship with their masters is deep enough to leave a lasting imprint on their memories.
So it’s crucial that, as an owner, you understand how your cat’s memory works, so that you can better interact with him, and ensure his well-being and happiness effectively. By understanding the mechanisms of your cat’s memory, you’ll be able to easily adapt your interactions and routine with him, creating a harmonious and stimulating environment for your feline.
