Some cats, just like dogs, also enjoy playing fetch with their human companions, a new survey of thousands of cat owners has revealed. The research indicates that approximately two in five pet cats opt to engage in the playful activity of fetch with their owners. While fetching is commonly associated with dogs, the behaviour is believed to stem from the natural hunting instincts of both cats and dogs.
Despite the prevalence of fetching in pets, the exact origins of this behaviour and how it evolved into the playful interactions we see today remain unclear. A study published in the journal PLoS One surveyed thousands of cat and dog owners to determine the frequency of fetching behaviour in their pets. Surprisingly, over 40% of the 8,000 cat owners surveyed reported that their feline friends would sometimes, frequently, or always retrieve toys or objects thrown for them.
The research team noted that cats were more inclined to exhibit fetching behaviour if they were playful, active, and lived indoors. Fetching was found to be more common in certain genetically distinct cat breeds such as Burmese, Siamese, and Tonkinese, which have origins in felines brought to the Far East early in the domestication process. Male cats and younger ones were also identified as more likely to engage in fetching activities.
In a first-of-its-kind estimation for dogs, the study suggested that around 80% of pet dogs may attempt to fetch items like sticks, balls, or other objects. Certain dog breeds known for herding or hunting, such as Labrador, Golden Retriever, Border Collie, and English Cocker Spaniel, were more prone to displaying fetching behaviour.
While fetching resembles the hunting behaviour of cats and dogs, researchers highlighted that it is closely associated with play rather than predation. The complex behaviour involves a series of coordinated actions that reflect the bond between pets and their human companions. Fetching requires active involvement from both the pet and the human, showcasing a level of understanding and connection between them.
Scientists believe that the retention of juvenile behaviours into adulthood in both cats and dogs stems from the domestication process. They hope that the study will inspire further exploration into the relationship between fetching, play, hunting instincts, and social interactions in these beloved pets. The findings shed light on this common yet intriguing behaviour shared by both cats and dogs, enriching our understanding of their playful interactions with humans.