Scientists have discovered why cats watch their owners, and it"s amazing

THE SECRET OF CAT OBSERVATION REVEALED: WHY PETS WATCH US

British scientists from the University of Sussex have solved one of the most intriguing mysteries of domestic cat behavior. The research team led by Dr. Emma Wilson discovered why our furry companions so closely monitor our every movement.

The large-scale study, conducted from January to April 2025, included 120 domestic cats across Great Britain. Scientists applied an innovative approach: miniature cameras on the animals' collars combined with detailed owner surveys. The three-month data collection allowed them to record the natural behavior of pets in their familiar environment.

The analysis results revealed several key reasons for feline "espionage":

Social interaction. By observing their owners, cats decipher our behavior and anticipate important events for them — feeding or play. This is especially pronounced in pets living with a single owner.

Territorial control. Careful observation helps cats track any changes in their territory, including the movements of people and other animals in the house.

Curiosity and learning. Cats, especially young individuals, use observation as an educational tool, studying actions such as opening doors or using various objects.

Dr. Wilson emphasized that this behavior should not be confused with canine attachment — rather, it's an adaptive strategy that allows cats to effectively interact with the surrounding world.

The scientific community highly praised the study. Professor Maria Gonzalez from the University of Bristol noted that the work confirms the complexity of feline behavior and indicates the need for further study of their cognitive abilities.

The practical value of the research is obvious for millions of cat owners. For example, pets that particularly often observe their owners may need additional stimulation — new toys or interactive games.

The full results of the study were published in the Journal of Feline Behavior on June 15, 2025. The complete text of the scientific work is available on the journal's website.