cat behavior expert

[calimac]

says:

"I think the reason why people think that cats are more aloof than dogs is because dogs have been socialized to mirror the facial expressions of their owners to get food. A dog makes a face that we interpret as 'sad' or 'happy' because they know it gets them food."

What, and you think cats don't do likewise? Sad little face, maaau, maaau, feed me, feeeeeed me, I am the cat.

And, cat ... thinking outside the box is fine in business, but not when it's a catbox.

Comments

[nellorat.livejournal.com]

I have to say, having lived with both dogs and cats, that while cats do this, dogs excel at it--they're just in a different league. We had a beagle who would actually suck in her cheeks a bit to look drawn with hunger!

And now I wonder how she could ever have learned that. Maybe it's not mimicking but progressive conditioning to expressions that get results.

I think cats may have a more expressive vocal range, though.

[kalimac.livejournal.com]

And indeed, she is meowing as I write this. So.