Cat Tales | Full Documentary | NOVA | PBS
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- Опубліковано 25 кві 2024
- Goddess, demon, house pet? What does science say about the human relationship with cats? (Aired February 19, 2020 on PBS)
#NOVAPBS Official Website: to.pbs.org/3ijT4zH
Worshiped as a goddess, condemned as satanic, and spun into a stunning array of breeds, cats have long fascinated humans. But did we ever really domesticate them? And what can science tell us about our most mysterious companions?
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:16 Why Are People Obsessed with Cats?
09:28 Why Aren’t Cats Expressive?
12:46 Can Cats Understand Our Emotions?
14:28 Domestic Cat Relative
18:13 Earliest Encounter Between Human and Cat
21:51 Cat Abilities
25:30 How Do Cats Differ from Their Wild Ancestors
28:30 Importance of Cats in Egypt
34:54 How Domestic Cats Spread Around the World
42:10 The Difference of Feral Cats
46:18 Can Cats Be Trained Like Dogs?
49:04 Breeding of Hybrid Cats
51:12 Conclusion
(Premiered February 19, 2020 at 9 PM ET on PBS)
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#cat #historyofcats #domesticcats #cats #catbreeds #kitty #kittens #pet #pets #catvideos - Наука та технологія
I am 80 years-old and have no one in my life except my beloved Russian Blue, Sofie Girl. Every morning around 6am she crawls up on my chest for a nap and some loving. I am divorced but no person has ever shown me the degree of love that Sofie does. It is an honor to take care of her and to love her so much. I have always had cats. I remember each and every one of them with great affection. I thank God for this gift...
please make sure you have someone who can take care of your cat after you die.
Yes Indeed Sir, an animals love , loyalty and company is Indeed a fine gift. I'm glad u are so Blessed and hope u have been able to line up someone to care for her were something to happen to you. I pray this for you and may God Bless u both!
Animals are such a gift.
You love her & she lobes you back.
A cat will mirror you. So everything you give, they will give back!
You earn you cat's affection by how you treat them. People who dont get along with cats must do something to be disliked..
My best friend is about to turn 14. He is the love of my life, the only one who is there for me and loves me unconditionally.
Each day when I arrived home, my kitty would meow loudly at the foot of the bed. That was my signal to sit on the bed and pet her. She wouldn't stop until I did so. She demanded love and affection before food. No one can tell me cats are only motivated by food. My baby passed away last month. Right before she passed, she looked deeply into my eyes in the most tender way as if to say thank you for all the belly rubs, hair brushing, ear scratches, and love you gave me. I miss her.
Rips the heart out.
@@MultiChubby1 Same behavior with one of mine.. she is "aggressively affectionate"... Know your loss.. and still feel the pain..
Sorry for your loss. There is no loss like the one of a beloved pet.
@@leslieleslie6590 🙏
Oh so sad. My heart goes out to you💔
I try not to dread that day but after a long lifetime with beloved pets, its difficult not to.
Still, they are So worth it.
My cat BooBoo literally changed my life. After I could no longer work I was in my apartment on a limited income. For some reason my spirit told me to go to a shelter and get a cat. It was the best decision I ever made. She was a distraction from my depression and anxiety, I learned to care for her. 12 years later, she’s now a senior with some health issues, but I am determined to make her feel better. I will be forever grateful for having her in my life. 🐕🐱
I'm thinking about getting a cat
@@Ze_MooseIf you’re wanting a friend that will love you and be good to you through thick and thin!! As long as your behavior shows that you love and will care for them!!! I miss my kitty so much!!!! He was my best friend!!!
@@northerncaligirl1216 Appreciate the advice 👍
So so so beautiful!!! When you reach the other side (in God's time) you will never but never be parted.
Very similar experience due to chronic illness and I truly believe I wouldn't be here without my lil deaf boy. Love to hear other positive stories like this 💚
why they are irresistibile? their beauty, their elegance, their strong personality, their royal but funny behavior. Fabulous creatures.
Yes! I have 5 and i love them so much.
Oh, I thought you were talking about me.
And cats are just the PERFECT level of a**holes to be totally adorable even there.
*Bats at your thing up on the mantle.*
"Hey...what are you doing up there?"
*Batbat a tiny amount...scooting it towards the edge a little bit!*
"...don't you DARE!"
*Bop! THUNK-bonk-crash!*
Cat: ^_^
The cat knew...the cat WAITED until you noticed it. And yet...we do so adore the little fuzzy a**holes! @.o;
@@donnahageman6289 😆😸
Yes I agree and love cat's are so adorable 🥰😺💙
When a cat chooses you as its favorite person, it is a HUGE honor
I understand. My Mancoon Charlie has picked me. Of course he thinks I'm his mom. He sits on my shoulder wraps his body around my head and purrs. For just so long. He gets very overstimulated than jumps down. He is used to being a indoor outdoor cat. Now we are in a place he cannot even go out of my apt. Does anyone have any idea how to calm him
I feel so bad for him. If I play with him he will look at my hands sees them as I'm not sure and will attack my arms and hands. He'd neutered as well but has learned to please himself by humping the blankets,???
MIIOOOOWWWW
AMEN brother
@@gypsylove4291 Poor Charlie and you. That's got to be tough on both of you. Have you ever heard of Jackson Galaxy? He's a cat expert as in a real "cat whisperer". He had a show on Animal Planet I used to watch. He has lots of youtube videos. Charlie probably doesn't know what's up with you not understanding he wants out. Maybe he's worried you've lost brain cells!? Yikes!! I pray the best for you both.
Not if you're allergic. LMAO They always favor the person with allergies to them as well, it seems. 😂
One thing I've noticed about " cat people ", they sure seem to be more caring and compassionate than those who don't like cats. Just an observation.👍✌💖
You need to meet a few more people....lol
I think it's more that non-cat-lovers just don't have any cats in their lives. My 8-lb cat charges the door, hissing, spitting and bouncing sideways, ready to take on the giant UPS guy outside. How's that for protection?
Agree ❤️
@@shadowdawg04 not if they are not cat people
@@bambinaforever1402 It's a lazy, baseless assumption...emotional fodder 🙄
I’m a 30 year old man with 5 cats (no more)
But I could not not imagine my life without them. They help me relax and are so friendly
You just need to find a cat lady!
Same here. I love cats and dogs. I will be 40 next month and have been screwed over by my work today. I drove home saying to myself "I just want Gabey and Wavey. They are the only ones that can make me feel better right now!" Gabriel and Waverly-Grace are my cats!
Amazing
I got to having 5 cats at one point too, and I too thought 5 was the limit I could handle.
Love cat's,I'm 57now and my cat Jerry is a tabby cat was 7weeks old when I got him he's now 7years old😸😁
I'm 21 and just adopted my first cat, Kento, less than a week ago. I've grown up with dogs my entire life, but I've never fallen in love with an animal so quickly. Despite Kento only being with me for about five days now, he is the sweetest, most affectionate little guy! He's currently curled up next to me as I watch this, and he makes coming back from classes and studying so much easier.
I bet kento is your best friend now 😊
They really are SO remarkably loving and sweet, overall - of course, you'll get the occasional exception, but all the cats I've had throughout my 37 years have been wonderful lovebugs with the most delightfully distinct personalities. From my slightly aloof genius girl, Maggie - she wasn't unloving, just got VERY easily overstimulated from pets quickly, to my giant doof, Neko, who never did manage to grasp the concept of doors. Sarge, who loved water to the point that he once hopped in a shower with me. And now, my Cleo, who's SO utterly bonded to me it's ridiculous, and my lovey little shithead (but he's MY shithead), Billy, whose litter was raised around dogs, so he wags his tail out of happiness like a dog, instead of the way most cats move theirs. It's endearingly odd.
I inherited my sisters black cat. His name was Chaka and he was such a warrior. He was born in St Louis and moved to Venice CA where he lived out his days as an indoor / outdoor cat. He would get into fights but never lost. He was an awesome friend and I miss him daily. He lived to be 23 years old. ❤️🏆
wow!! 23?? that´s amazing! feels me with happiness to hear a cat can live that long!!
He was a city of StL cat-that's why he won all the time!! Go Home team StL!
Wow Chaka was a warrior for sure living to 23!! I had a fluffy long hair orange kitty with a beautiful white chest/mane named Tailwhip after the BMX trick (which suited him perfectly because he had a thick fluffy tail with a show stopper personality to match)
He was actually one of the most non violent beings I've ever known, I witnessed him and his black and white tuxedo cat brother trying to befriend chipmunks etc rather than killing them. I always said they were reincarnated Buddhist monks haha Tailwhip especially was super loving and affectionate to everyone he crossed paths with 💕💕💕 ( Bearcat was nice but far more reserved than his brother) They both lived long lives, Bearcat 16-18 yr old and Tailwhip lived to be 20.
Rest in peace to all the Kitties who are gone but never forgotten 🐈🥀❣️🕊️
So long a life!! You were blessed. I was obligated to have my wonderful Tink (Fluffy, clever BFF, 6 recognizable words - No, Now, Ma, Whaa! Laf/love, yah) and Sandy (Adventure Kitty, Seer of Spirits, Expert golfer - at least with jewelry etc, and pool shark, winner of the Richest Fur Award) be sent to their next destination. They were 17 and 17-1/2, one went from breast cancer, the inestimable Sandy, severe arthritis & congestive heart failure. I think of all my cats, she was the one who protesting dying. I suspect she knew she'd be leaving me with no kitties; she was maternal, and I think excelled in everything - but quietly, almost smugly. I was blessed too.
@@jungjeru3348 orange cats are the sweetest-I’ve had two and both were just as you described-the most loving beings I’ve ever known and to all that crossed their paths. And every being that ever came in contact with them (human AND animal) fell madly in love with them instantly. Orange cats are my favorite for that reason. ❤
On cats bringing home their prey, not being a gift... We had a cat named Sasha when I opened a computer/electronics store, that was infested with gerbils. Once we closed & the lights went off, she went hunting... Every gerbil she caught, she would bring to the office doorway, drop it, and vocalize until we went to look & praise her. She never let us get too close before she would grab it & bolt. Occasionally, numerous times a night, until they were cleared out.
We always free fed our fur babies, keeping fresh food & water at all times, however, she would never eat until you ran your fingers through it. Screaming, until you did
Her favored position was on my thigh, forehead pressed against my belly. She made 18 great years, healthy till the end.
Damn, I miss that girl
My sincerest condolences, we had our sweet orange Marmalade for many years until he passed last year. Our good boy was a dear part of our family.. I've been brokenhearted ever since.
Some cats will actually try to give you small animals they bring in.
I should have read this before I posted. I have had MANY cats over the years, and I always saw this behavior. It was not enough for them to have their prey in their home - they wanted to be sure I knew about it.
Cats are awesome!
It's INDEED A GIFT of food for YOU!
Unfortunately it took me 60 years to realize how much I love cats. I had always been a dog person. I’m getting ready to adopt my first cat. The only time in my life, that I was this excited was when I brought home my only child. I can’t wait to bring home my baby with four legs. 💜
I was present for my cats birth and she definitely acts like an aloof cat for everyone but me. She asks me to pick her up, she sleeps with me and cuddles any chance she gets, gives me kisses and purr any time I so much as look at her. She greets me when I come home and I absolutely adore her, she has been what has prevented me from taking my life more than once. She has also taught herself how to sense when I am going to faint and let's me know by nipping me if I try to get out of bed and meows and jumps on me. She has never been wrong 😅 I dont know if its because I'm autistic but I love her more than I've ever loved anyone or anything, she is my baby.
I'm so glad your sweet baby has saved you. Sending love and hope you'll have peace in your life.
Yeah when negative thoughts intrude, even dominate your thinking, cats are a good interruption to get you back on track. I love being woken up earlier than I intended or later to find a patient one near. a great way to start the day. and later a plop in your lap w some petting & talk gets your compass pointing in the right direction. don't feel alone in noticing relationships w pets better than w humans; less complicated.
❤
I have seen some pretty drastic changes in behaviour with and without cats from autistic people, but I (speculate, don't mean to offend or disagree) that loving your cat more than anyone else isn't from that. Life can be very unfair to some people, it sounds like it's been quite a bit unfair to you. Unfortunately whether we admit it or not humans generally avoid people with more unfortunate circumstances more baggage etc, that's why a lot of people put on facades. But the cat doesn't care about that, in fact they're pretty remarkable at detecting genuine physiological mood. They see you as you plain and simple, well they see you as an infinite food hack too (:
@@Audreyxpp well I guess I am emotionally autistic: I had to learn fr cats to accept that Peace will be accomplished on their terms, not mine. a lesson I needed to learn; life is easier w mutual respect, then follows cooperation. if I hold up my end of the bargain they'll hold up theirs. when they plop in your lap it's not about food. in the morning maybe, but you don't resent being kneaded or needed. nice routine to begin the day. feeding takes as much time as a K cup of coffee brewing. their clock a good one: hay, were burning daylight, don't waste
Years ago when my son was a newborn, our cat was my most dependable babysitter. Little Guy would sleep under the crib or the stroller if we were outside. As our son got older and mobile LG would follow him everywhere. He never allowed strangers to approach our son and defended him at every opportunity. He was so special and we miss him to this day.
My Pinto did that too!
Thank you for sharing that wonderful, special tribute with us.
Plump pete takes care of my brothers daughter haha and keeps her entertained while the adults are busy! It's so heart warming to hear her say plump pete as that's one of the few words she knows!
RIP LG🥲
I had a cat named Lil Guy he was 15 1/2 yrs old when he passed away. My son thinks I'm weird for naming him that. But it fit him when we got him. But he was a big boy full of fluff. He obviously took the traits of the dad or dads lol. His mother was a short haired cat. He was the only long haired kitten she had others were short haired.
He was a great kitty 😻😺 love him miss him. Still have the 2 babies they're both 10 years old now. Our Lil Guy was loved by them also , they mourned their big brother. They laid by him. As he was cremated. Will b getting special urns for him. He passed Oct. 8 2020. Rest in Peace our Beloved Lil Guy we love you forever. 😭💜💜💜😽😽😿😿
I've heard that cats are vocal to communicate with humans. I was staying with a relative who owned a VERY vocal cat. He was constantly meowing, as if expecting an answer - one day, I made the mistake of doing so. I meowed back at him, he looked me straight in the eye like "At last, an intelligent one of the species!" From that point on, he tried to carry on *intelligent conversation* with the only human, he believe, appreciated his intellect. 😸😑
😅😅😅😅😅😅😅
Cats Do miaouw to each other. Sometimes they will call across several streets to each other. It is like the idea that ferals cannot adapt/do not want to be house cats. both are human fallacies, because it suits us to believe them. The Feral idea is clearly nonsense, as we would never have had domestic cats if they had not chosen to move in with us. That didn't just stop 10,000 years ago! Given a choice, would you rather be somewhere where you were warm, dry, safe and got regular food, or out on the streets in all weathers fighting for survival and every scrap of food? No brainer isn't it? And no one has ever accused cats on not having brains.
I carry on conversations with my cats. Oddly I have to say, they know what I am saying. Just took in a feral momma for winter. Her kittens are not feral now, she is still feral she is the Boss. I have to work carefully around her, I have been bit and smacked. But with time she now is no longer aggressive to me. As soon as she has been spayed she will be released as a society cat. Unless after her spay, she stops being so aggressive. Because I have always owned indoor cats, I fairly can only take in non-ferals. It is not fair to the pets in my home so this is a temporary solution. To save the lives of the 3 kittens she had with her. Already pregnant just gave birth to 6 more. Inside my farmhouse. I do not do barn buddies/ferals we have to many in our woods causing problems. At night it sounds like a cat slaughter in my woods! That is no fun to hear every night, also to know these little kittens are scared and dying. But I am making the best of this situation. One can only hope, I trust our local Humane society.
Very Vocal I know..😅
And right he was!!
Personally I find cats pretty readable. I wish more people would take the time to learn their expressions and what they mean. One of my cats even has his own special expression when he's being obstinant where he juts out his chin and glares and walks in a stompy manner and it's hillarious. I've found that the more time a person spends actually trying to comunicate with their cats, the more the cats will develop special expressions, behaviors, and vocal sounds to get across to you what they want.
Yes every cat has his own crazy personality 🤣 there so funny I wish we could talk directly but if you have a cat and pay attention you know what they are saying . Every meow is in a diff tone and I somehow know what everyone means ....,lol
I was a little surprised to hear that too. I grew up with cats so it's not even something I really had to consciously learn. Come to think of it they didn't even get into purring, which is one of the most wonderfully expressive things about them!
❤❤❤❤❤
I can relate. I am the owner of an extremely vocal, very assertive cat. Or perhaps she owns me. It doesn't matter. I love her beyond words.
I take care of 12 homeless cats and 3 that live indoors. My husband died last year and if not for my furry babies I wouldn't have gone on. I guess the outdoor cats aren't homeless, they live on my porch. I have put up a few shelters for the winter. I'm only able to touch half of them but I'm working on it.
Poor little creatures! I moved into a house and next door had been vacated. In the back yard was a dead mother cat. Her kittens were still alive. Very small. Very hungry. I had 2 dogs and a .male cat. Between us. and with the help of a formula and ear dropper, they all flourished. My pets kept them warm and clean. My cat even let them suckle! It did take a lot of time, but was very rewarding. I was sad when it was time to part, but they all got homed to good loving families, and I was happy. It is tempting to keep them!
My tortie girl passed away at twenty years old, 3 years ago. I wish someone had prepared me for the train load of grief I feel to this day. The absolute best friend I have ever had. Smart, demanding, great sense of humor, took care of me when I was unwell, played well right up until a month before she died, just a brilliant friend and partner. Once in a lifetime cat.
Cats are amazing. Dogs are great, but cats are on another level.
Sorry to hear. Get some more. It's kitten season now. Facebook is full of cat rescue groups.
Bless you for your sensitivity and perception and love.
@@sarahallenhumboldt2638 thank you for your kind words Sarah.
Growing up in a family with at least 3 cats at any given time has taught me that the grief one feels when *your* cat-the cat that chose you-dies cannot be overstated
Me tooo…I’m lost without my Choo Choo
1 in 5 household owns a cat. Sometimes 2 or 3 of those households own the same cat!
LOVE to read comments respecting it’s the cats choice where it goes.!! Not all desire to go out and more are content with a backyard., but the ones that desire to roam normally long hair males related to Mountain, Forest or Coon cats… spaying all cats is not a question of course but that doesn’t have impact on these cats … their ability to roam and establish a territory is as necessary as air. see them locked up and hear how much done to keep them from
Ever going out and it breaks my heart i Know how miserable they are internally then the people say they do it so they live a long time . Oh great 🫣
So very true. My sister "had" a cat whose home was the entire neighborhood. Everyone loved him and if there was a problem whoevers house he was at took care of the problem. He roamed that area for 17 years, chased and killed many, many mice and lived the way he wanted indoors and out in whatever house he wanted to occupy at that moment. People would post pictures on the neighborhood web page.
One time I went over to my neighbors house and my cat was already there. I can confirm hahah
Hilarious 😆 and so true.
How do u know
I learned more about Cats in this video than I ever thought possible. I'm on a NOVA binge and there's no going back. I must fill my brain with all the knowledge.
Yep
I feel like that's what we're here to do - stuff out brain with as much knowledge as possible. Also love cats
I’m an 80 year old widow. Couldn’t have survived after the death of my beloved without my precious rescue Siamese cat! 😍😻
Anybody can be loved by a dog by just showing up. You earn a cat's love.
Yes😂
I had a beautiful tortie that was mostly feral, tamed by my friend. I took her as a year old because torties can be too dominant with other kitties, I didn't want her to be sent to a kill shelter.
She wasn't an affectionate girl but if a kitty lives with me has to do affection. So one afternoon I picked her up, she didn't like being picked up but she didn't fight it. I lay down and gently held her on my chest so I could pet her. She started to leave but I (very gently) kept her on my chest. After about an hour, after petting her, she purred, and when she wanted to leave I let her. After that she would come to me and she would settle on my lap or chest for affection. I had her 17 of her 18 years. When her time was near to cross the bridge (cancer) she came to me and gently lay her head on my chest. It was hard to say goodbye. ❤
I respect your opinion but I gotta disagree! Don’t get me wrong, I have a cat & I love her but…I think the only reason she loves me (if she does) is because I’m her source of food. A dog will love you (or not love you) because of you - & how they feel about you - which is the same way that humans either do love you or don’t love you. Just my opinion from one lucky enough to have lived with all 3 species over many years ! 😁🐾❤
@@SaneTXJane you know what? I'll give you that.
It could be that cats are really good manipulators. 😀
@@danbusey Hey Dan, I think that’s what you call “give and take” ? I can go for that. 🎶😄
Training cats... you just have to know what their motivation is. I had a cat... probably will never find another like him... I miss him... Who's motivation was just like that of a dog... he craved attention... He wanted to be near you ... he wanted pets... he would do anything to get that. Anything at all. And he was smart. He knew pretty much what you were saying. He could speak... as in he used words. He could say "Mom, Out, Help, and No" and he knew when to use those words. He would come when called. If I snapped my fingers and pointed he would jump up there and sit. He could shake hands, give a high five, kisses, stand up, lay down, and many other things if you asked. He would frequently wake my daughter on command. He just knew things. Again... his motivation was pets. He was also smart enough that if you pet him without asking him to do things... He just wouldn't do things for you... Why? Because he knew you'd pet him anyway... and that was all he really wanted. So if you refused to pet him he would go through all his tricks for you on comand and on his own... trying to gain your attention. He frequently did this for my father who was NOT a cat person... but for my mom he refused to do tricks. She would pet him anyway if he just crawled up to her and sat beside her. He knew this. He also would show you his murder mittens... and spread his claws out for you to inspect anytime you showed him your hand. He was amazing and brilliant and will be forever missed.
Great story. Thank you
I love cats & have lived with several. Right now I have three. People tell me all the time that you can't train cats. I say bullshit. Like you I have. And yes, they do things for us & for fun! God certainly blessed us by creating them!
I wasn't able to have children so I've had cats my whole life.. while watching this I realize that I was actually pretty fertile because I was a momma to all 12 of my babies ❤
Aww well congratulations your fur babies are great children in fur and whiskers I am also a cat mom expect I am a teen cat mom of 4 apparently I was chosen to be a young cat mom by all of my four cats so I wouldn’t be able to have children either but I have cats as my children
What do you mean you realized you were fertile because of your 12 cats? That doesn't even make sense 😂
sy kom sit nie eers op my skoot nie...sy vies as ek haar groom.
This is the best documentary about domestic cats that I have ever watched. Thank you, NOVA PBS!
Nova has always been a good documentary show.
I live next to a cemetary and my indoor outdoor cat has turned into a grief councilor. Attending funerals and visitors to grave sites she hops up on grave stones meowing and accepts endless petting. I have watched so many people stop to pet her. When they decorate the graves with flags during memorial days she follows them all over.
What a wonderful kitty, she's so purrfect.
There is also a kitty in a nursing home who senses when a resident is going to pass away. The kitty will go into the room and stay with the resident until they pass. The doctors and nurses all keep an eye on the kitty so they can contact family.
"Our cat got stuck in my brother's camp trunk, and we did not need to open it to know there was all kinds of dead cat in there." -- Penny Hoffsteader, "The Big Bang Theory."
@@robadams5799 Aww, that's so sad.😿
Your cat has likely been the tiniest glimmer of light in some of the darkest moments for so many people, and possibly something people who visit often look forward to as a part of visiting their lost loved ones… you’re very lucky to have such a loving and social kitty, and you’re very kind to share them with others, even if only briefly.
I have an autoimmune condition that there is no cure for. One of our house cats, Rambo, has appointed himself my support cat. He just knows when I’m about to have a bad episode. He will come to my chair, rise up and meow then start for the bedroom. He repeats this until I go get in the bed. I keep my medication by the bed, once I take it and lay down, he hops up and lays on the area of most pain. He’s the best! My husband is amazed at the care he provides me ❤❤ ❤❤❤
I love my precious dogs, but it is so true that earning a cat’s love and trust is such an honor. I have two rescue kitties, and I can’t explain the joy they bring. It is also amazing how my cats bonded with my dogs. My one cat. Cleo, came to us at 6 weeks old. In many ways so he thinks she is a dog. She sleeps with my dog and actually goes for walks. The minute she hears the leash, she comes running! Everyone stops to look and comment. She has become somewhat of a celebrity in our neighborhood-and she loves it!
My first cat, Javier, was a feral kitten. His socialization is my greatest accomplishment. He is the gentlest and sweetest boy and has absolutely no interest in going back outside.
My sweet cat is 19 years old and beautiful black tuxedo cat. She is cuddly and expressive, empathetic and comforting and a delightful companion. She knows when I am sad and she comforts me. When I had an operation and was home for a month from work, she was always close by and instinctively knew not to sit on my abdomen. She laid across my upper body instead. I got her when she was tiny and had never had a cat before. She’s the best thing that has ever happened to me and I am so grateful for her cute loving and independent nature. 😻😻😻😻😻 I adore her and cats in general.
I just know they are little souls that have an afterlife too. After all if there is heaven, how could they not be there?
Once I rescued 12 Siamese cats from a colony in an alley. I did not have a have a "Have a Heart" trap, I only had a regular carrier. I sat quietly beside the carrier for days, I sat Motionless waiting for cat after cat after cat to come into the carrier for a treat. I rehomed all 12, as a gift to a beloved animal loving person who had just passed away.
You are my kind of gal. We have one new kitten and a half in our TNR'd community colony of 12 - here in New Orleans. He had one Siamese parent, since he has those bright blue eyes, brown muzzle, pale tan body, marked paws -- and a RING TAIL!
@@cynthiahawkins2389 Aw, thank you. The hateful comment from that person earlier got me down but reading your comment put a smile on my face, thank you!
@@cynthiahawkins2389 Also... when I think back to that time I caught all 12 of those Siamese in that alley I'm amazed that they allowed me to do that using only a cat carrier. I think my godmother who had fed them all developed trust with them so perhaps that's why they weren't that afraid of me. That is now a fond memory.
I rescued my cat from cat colony also since he was outdoor indoor I let him out 2 x a day he usually came back when I called him but he has been going back to the colony 5 blocks away , I brought him home once but this time he didn't let me . :(
@À Strand How very kind. Thank you.
I had a white Persian cat when I was young. I called him B he was a a big beautiful cat with long white fur with two black spots above his eyes. He had a habit that if someone was sick he would come and sit on your stomach and purr. This always made me feel better and put me to sleep. I had that cat for years and I miss him.
My life's joy nothing is as precious as the love of taming a feral cat earning their trust & in that moment it's pure love all my cats were feral & were the sweetest ones I ever was owned by 😹❤
Throughout my life I've had many pets, both dogs and cats. Dogs require a lot more space and attention. My first pet as a kid was a dog we named Blackie, a mutt but basically a black Lab. We lived in a very small town in Canada so plenty of open spaces, he'd wander off for days sometimes but still we had trouble because he'd chase cars on the road and bark. Right now I'm a 68 year old widower with a cat and the most trouble he causes me is that he jumps up onto the bed at two or three o'clock in the morning and starts pawing me to give him a little pat on the head before he'll lay down and go to sleep. If I try to turn over and ignore him he'll just come around the other side and stare at me until I capitulate. But hey, I've got buddy, I'm not alone.
The cat loves you!
I’m a 69 yr. old widow with a cat the Rescue told me was what I wanted: “Mature.” The kitten-climbing-the-drapes-again days are over so I wanted an adult as they are less likely to be given a home. The cat was quite large, picked me out, came home the same day with the name “Guinevere” I assume because her long fur is the consistency of cotton candy. Ohdeargawd, within 24 hrs. I changed her name to LucyFur: She is a hugely overgrown kitten and to my horror, gained another two pounds within the first year, requires an oversized litter box and has more energy than a sugared-up toddler. Sigh. I’m not alone-EVER! Not the shower, the commode, the closet and all of the furniture including me require “monitoring” around the clock.
A sweety-cat.
Yes, you are not alone around a cat. They can feel your warmth and love from a distance and want you feel theirs in complete faith that you are together and they have your back. Their kisses are with their eyes and they love you just as deeply as you love them. You will see your loves in heaven and never doubt that!
I'm in your shoes, only older. Not sure I could make it without my Sofie. Stay well, Buddy!
Hubby and I are sitting here wondering how you can't read a cat's expression... We absolutely read our cat's expressions.
same, i was having the same conversation.
@@lyndaanneshop Well I think we can read some of them, some of the time but not all of them all of the time.
Cats have very expressive faces. That part of the program is nonsense
One must care enough to learn, and let the cat be the teacher. Yes, absolutely. I could tell my parents exactly what each of our cats wanted by how they meowed and moved, and the expressions of their faces, ears, tails...
Cat research done by dog person: net result, cats aren't dogs. True, we knew that.
The woman probably never seen a feral cat. I worked with ferals at the shelter, they will dart their eyes side to side rapidly if you look in their eyes.
My cat Morris is twenty years old and I've been around him the last twelve years. My mother moved down to Georgia and he stayed here with. He is the most loyal, affectionate, and loving pet. He shows unconditional love. He comes first now that he's a geriatric, not elderly cat.
any tips what to feed? I'd really love my cat to happily live for 20 years
@@ranetazalova6836 Morris past away a few months ago. He was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease which is common for elderly cats. There was no special food but I fed him Friskees Shreds. I really miss him.
Los gatitos sí expresan sus emociones y sí se les nota. 🐈
Cats can definitely sense our emotions or illness, I know whenever I'm upset/crying my cats cling to me and won't leave me alone and they make sure I'm touching them in someway lol. My sister's kittens recently saved her life when she was experience breathing problems in her sleep, they kept meowing loud and pawing at her face until she woke up and discovered she couldn't breathe, she called 911 and was taken to the hospital where she spent 3 days/nights there after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure.
Good kitties.
Please share these anecdotes on discussions where they attack cats and contrive all sorts of malicious lies against them, you gotta tear down strongholds of lies. Cats deserve more , and stern protection, don't you know how persecuted they are?
Jab induced ?
All thanks to kitty.
❤
For what it's worth, I had a 3 1/2 year old tom cat on my lap as the testing for sounds began and he had an immediate and strong reaction to the sound of the baby human crying at 6:53. This tom is a gentle soul, one of six foundlings that wandered here a few years ago. As a child growing up on a farm, one of the first most satisfying sights that that came to me was of our family cat.
Sound reactions in cats would be interesting. We can see the obvious in our cats, but not the subtle that their brains register without showing on their faces. Dogs will show subtle nuances on their faces, but not cats! And your cat who is a "gentle soul" might react to a baby's cry, whereas another personality might not. That would be so interesting!
@Voya Ristika cats can be expressive, once you learn the visual and auditory cues.
@@jturtle5318 I know that's right! My cat, Lucy, is beside me right now. Her communication is subtle but always effective. And she communicates differently with my husband than she does with me. I'd call that definite intelligence!
I wonder if cats used to guard sleeping babies, along with the grain...I knew someone who grew up in a ghetto, and he remembered rats gnawing at his bed posts...
I read this cat quote once that stuck w me every since …
‘You’re NOBODY until you’ve been ignored by cat.’
I felt that.
& this, THIS is why we LOVE cats.
I have a ginger kitty. He's the sassiest but sweetest cat I've ever had. Very sensitive to my emotions and would not hesitate to comfort me when I need it.
Me too but he meows a lot like complaining why is that?
A great documentary, though there is so much more to cats. They absolutely form tight emotional bonds - with one another as well as their humans. The idea that it’s all about food is hogwash. Working as a caretaker with hundreds of cats in cat rescue for years, I’ve learned a lot. Cats are highly intuitive and can be loyal, loving beings. I’ve watched them morn the loss of their human or their cat friends. They are truly amazing. Would love to see Nova take this to the next level!
I agree 100% ❤😻cats 😻❤
Agree completely.
Yes, this has been my personal experience with cats, as well.
Absolutely! If it was all about food and only food they’d only show up for meals and ignore us otherwise. Left to their own devices they can find their own food which they do very competently even when well fed/ nourished. Do they *need* to bring us their “gifts?” NO. But they do. Why? Because they love us, of course ;- )
Some even say cats can the other side.
I've read in other videos about cats seeing into the other side a commenter posted her cat warned her there was something malevolent in her home which she took to heart by Praying to Jesus and the malevolent force left her home
My most recent kitty, a black cat, was feral when I encountered her. After some time, she decided I was ok and took up residence. Later I found out she'd previously been someone else's cat. She always had a wild streak, and loved being outside, but in her last couple of years was much more content being mostly an indoor cuddle bug. She made it to 19 or 20 years.
So she wasn't feral, she was stray. Feral cats are born in the wild and have never been socialized with humans. Stray cats were someone's pet and got lost. Feral adult cats are extremely difficult if not impossible to get to trust you and take up residence (it's like trying to tame a fox or an elk). Strays will eventually remember their human socialization and can become a family member again.
If you can get a feral cat as a kitten, obviously they become a socialized cat. I actually have a cat that was a rescued feral as a kitten (was going to be euthanized by landowner). Born in the wild, socialized to only cats at first, and now a human companion, but still lives outside and doesn't come in. Feral cats make great working cats if you need a barn cat or a mouser for your chickens, but typically you have to trap them to get them to come with you.
@@ering1107 Stray cats revert to their inate feral nature if they've been living on the street long enough. It can take a lot of time and effort to re-establish trust.
the Maine coon mix my parents got six weeks before I was born, he saw me grow up and was very understanding the entire time. I cried so hard the day we had to schedule him to be put down during the pandemic. Old Tom made it to 20 years old and I'll never forget him.
Sorry for your loss ❤
Reminds me of a gentle giant of a pure Siamese cat born in our house. He weighed in at 22 lbs and was BIG. He'd get in bed under the covers with you, poke his head out and flip onto his back in your armpit and go to sleep like a baby. If he thought you were depressed, he'd climb up in your lap, stare with those big blue eyes into yours and reach out a paw, patting you on the cheek as if to say, "There, there. It will be alright".
Just thinking about him now brings tears to my eyes and I wish he was here to give me a pat on the cheek...
Beautiful documentary, NOVA/PBS! Thank you for sharing it online, so we have more insight into our mysterious companions!
I had a bookshop in Ohio wherein shelter cats were fostered and then adopted by customers. More than 50 were adopted from my shop over the years. I then wrote a series of novels about the experience (Shelve Under C is the first) to encourage other shops to look into fostering dogs, cats, rabbits, etc. The business that took over my location continued to foster, thankfully.
Thank you; that is so inspiring and loving.
Beautiful story. Awww. I ❤ cats too.
What a wonderful idea. I would like to do that in our small city. ❤
Cats and books is a wonderful combination! Good thinking :)
@@bemusedbandersnatch2069 thank you!
Other than not being able to do "puppy eyes" I think cat's faces can express emotion or information at least every bit as well as dogs
I agree 100%.
Same, I knew the "narrow mouth and turned ears" means upset cat tidbit already. I definitely speak cat fluently I guess.
Hahaha cats can do a way sadder face and "puppy eyes" than a dog
I can even communicate with stranger cats. You do the slow closing eye thing and it’s like the Mason handshake. These folks at Nova need to talk to more cat owners.
@@cruisepaige I know right? I do a lot of walking, mainly to do my shopping at local markets on foot. I have at least three cat friends along the way who know me and come up to me with their tails straight up if they are out in their yards at the time. Two of them will even roll around on their backs by my feet.
I have a tuxedo cat,her name is Tuxy. She's such a sweetheart!!! I had another one, Abby and she was sweet too but thy were different. Tuxy will actually smile at me sometimes and it's the cutest thing ever!!! !
My Siamese is very expressive (and loud!)
I’ve come to understand her pretty well after years of looking after her. She’s a sassy one and makes it known what she wants or doesn’t want. Love my little kitty so much ❤
I had 4 cats and a 1800sf house. Yet they CHOSE to be in whatever room I was in.
Time for bed? How about kitty standing at the top of the stairs hollering for you to come to bed.
When my partner died, I'd often just sit on the sofa and cry. Sebastian would jump up on the sofa, place his paws on my shoulder and press his face into my neck. He did that for 6 weeks.
I can't imagine my life without a cat.
When we decided to get a cat was my daughter’s idea, a friend had a litter. I had grown up having cats and dogs, then a long stretch. We marveled at all our cat could do. We got her at 3 months old, what a big mouth with a yawn, the raised leg, as she groomed, the falling over. She was a gray striped kitty, at first it seemed as though we brought a squirrel to share our house! She was barely vocal, very funny, scaredy-cat. It took about 2 months before she chose her preferred human, my husband, lying on the couch. Watching tv, the cat jumps up to lie on his hip, he nearly had a heart attack! She always looked at him lovingly for 13 years! She liked the rest of us but was The One.
I've had my fur baby for 6 years. I got her when she was 13 and now, she's 19 and just starting to slow down. I love her so much and I know I'm gonna be an emotional wreck when she crosses the rainbow bridge. I'm making her as comfortable as i possibly can.
I love all kitties all over the world no matter how big or small or what breed. I wish I was able to help all kitties.
Cats are underappreciated pets & animals. I absolutely love them !
I've been caring for mobile home park strays for nearly 15 years and now have six who've elected to be indoor/outdoor citizens. I'm convinced that they understand our intent, sometimes before we're fully embracing it, especially when to find one to give medication. They are dear creatures, seem so close yet have their own sovereignty which I fully appreciate.
@@whalesong999 Beautiful Excellent comment. Spot on!
Same! ❤😻cats 😻❤ are awesome!
Same here.
@@whalesong999 we have 2 indoor black cats and taking care of outdoor beautiful dilute calico
I've trained my cat without using food. I praise her. She knows how to "Platz"--a command given to police dogs to lay down. I can also send her to different rooms in my house by telling her to go there. When I say, "Bunchy cat!" she hunches her back like a Halloween cat and walks on her toes around the room. It's very cute! She also understands some words: Turkey, Salmon, Steak, Tuna, Chicken... :)
You bet! Mine also know the word BATH! Vanishing cats!
@@grantwriter7777 I approach the vacuum cleaner and they are GONE!
i have2 beautiful cats i don't give them canned cat food i give them raw pure tuna fish its the best protein, i also do'n't give them tap water never they get pure water the same i drink, i also give them high quality dry cat food they are 10 and 9 years old never been sick or to the vets there hair is shinny there eyes sparkle they are so healthy and happy and that makes me happy, animals have consciousness just like we do just at a different level and even in the bible Genesis God created the animals before man, we must take care of them its our responsibilty!
In order to use praise, cats have to get it right SOMETIME. But my cat completely ignores me WHENEVER I say "go", "stay", "fetch" etc. There has to be something that happens before it can be praised, so my cat is a non-starter with praise as a reinforcer.
@@healthyone100 I read tuna is not good to feed all the time. Please research it.
Time spent with cats is never wasted.
-Sigmund Freud
Well, he was right about one thing.
"Life without cats is possible, but pointless" - Goethe, Loriot, a bunch of other German thinkers apparently.
@@MultiChubby1 You may not realize it but you probably believe a lot more of Freud's conclusions. For example, do you believe in narcissism?, unconscious thoughts? anal retentive OCD? (to name just a few of his concepts.) Just because he over-generalized on the Oedipus complex doesn't mean that some men aren't like that or that ALL of his psychological propositions (research based BTW) were wrong-headed.
@@karenryder6317 everyone is now apparently. Including good old sigmund himself. 😂 this crap is getting old now
Kare, he had to quote, right? hE SIMPLY QUOTED WHAT HE AGREES WITH.
I loved our Siamese cat Sam. He was the most gentle, loving cat. I'd come home from work and do my daily reading of the newspaper . I could tell Sam was in the room because as soon as I put down the paper he was just a few feet away patiently waiting for me to put the paper away and call him to jump up on my lap and love on him. He was about 25 pounds but when he jumped up on my lap he was so light on the landing you'd swear he was only 10 pounds. He.had such a gentle spirit and his loyalty was lifetime. Purrfect cat.
Only thing that is bad about cats is the fact that they have such a short life-span, and it's wrenching every time you lose one, it's like losing a family member. It's so sad. I've lost 3 so far in the last 30 years. I just lost one about a month ago, it was really, really, difficult for me.
I'm sorry for your loss. I hope time helps your heart heal ❤
Thanx, but I do what I normally do, I've already got a little ginger kitty lined up. ❤
The greatest grief of my life was the tearing in half of my soul when my wife of 45 years died 5 years ago. I fear my greatest future grief would be if my Juni (cat in my avatar) dies before I do. I've had her and she's had me for the last 5 years. She is my constant companion in the home and away from it.
I rescue stray kittens and sometimes they dont make it, it's hard losing them 😢
I hear you I don’t know how to get over the Grief
Three years ago, I spent 15 days in Istanbul and Cypress. Cats were everywhere, protected and well fed by everyone, all the time.
Cats are empathy. My mom's Siamese was afraid of my dad. Then he got sick. She started sitting on his lap. She was worried about him. He didn't know he had a staph infection and almost died. It was bad. He had iv antibiotics for weeks at home. Cat still loving on him all the time. He recovers and she's back to being wary of him and no longer sought out pets and lap to sit on.
I know someone else that had the same experience. The cat knew he was in a weakened state, which is why he came around because there was no threat.
did your kitty experience any trauma? maybe before you got her?
@À Strand Sheba was my mom's siamese cat and was like her baby. She was cremated and is in a box in my mom's bedroom. That cat followed my mom everywhere except when dad was sick. Her meow sounded like a baby crying. People would hear her in the background of a phone call and ask if we had a baby at the house. Nope just Sheba, mom's cat who thinks she's her baby.
@vinnie mendel no trauma for Sheba. She was treated like a angel from birth. Except for me being a kid and making her do silly dance moves and cheerleading. I loved paying with mom's cat. If mom wasn't home I could get attention from Sheba and was a lap cat which I liked because my cat Shadow was anti social.
If you’re in tune with your cat, it’s very easy to tell what they’re feeling. Just like with horses, cats have a language all their own. From their ears to a flick of the tail; the way they blink their eyes at you. They are communicating with you. Animals are subtle. That’s what I love about horses and cats- they are more subtle than dogs. Dogs are clumsy with their communication. When you take a cat to the vet watch their eyes: they will get a blank look and avoid eye contact, even with their owner as they become more stressed. They will begin to look their owner in the eye and blink at them in a sign of trust once they feel safe again (if they have established this trust them in their relationship). If you see a cat in a shelter or on the street, you can also see this lack of eye contact as the cat is stressed and lacks trust. If you can get their eye contact and speak softly and gently to them, and offer them your scent to smell slowly, they will slowly begin to look you in the eye and if you talk to them enough they will begin to talk back to you. Cats are extremely social and smart: not aloof at all.
Cats are wonderful because you have to get to know them. They give back what you put in. But they give back with such adorable style that they win your whole heart. And their humor is the funniest in the animal kingdom.
My cat CreamPuff is excited to be watching this documentary with me. She is one of our three beautiful felines.
Cats are extremely expressive, in a subtle way. One needs to pay close attention.
We love them because when they reciprocate the love, it means you've respected their boundaries. It's hard wired into us to seek that acceptance
Hahaha. I guess not everyone has had the chance to be with a truly expressive cat. I was, and trust me, I could tell his emotions right away. RIP. I will always miss him.
4:27 excellent comedic timing. 10/10 stars for the editor.
After having had many housecats for many years, I have no trouble at all understanding their facial expressions, and how they are feeling, in general, from all kinds of physical clues they give. But if you know a cat well, and it spends time in your lap, you ought to easily be able to discern a whole spectrum of emotions in its face, by how its eyes are, how its meow sounds, a ton of things. But that issue of them having fewer facial muscles for expression certainly has a ton to do with people not noticing their facial expressions, bigtime.
YES! Superb comment!
In addition to being able to read their expressions they unequivocally read Mine, whether I want them to or not! Try as I might I cannot conceal my feelings. Especially when I am in any kind of pain, they pick up on it immediately. The greater my pain the more it troubles them even if I have not overtly expressed that pain. They are empathetic, warm and yes, compassionate.
❤😻cats 😻❤
I agree 100%
Yes.
@@beckyburtis9977 My cat, Diva, always knew when I was in pain when I had a migraine. She would nose me, hover like a nurse and act all worried, meowing the whole time. I'd end up comforting *her,* and sometimes even forget about my migraine! LOL Obviously, I was still miserable, migraines are awful, but she always made me feel a bit better. I miss her so much. She passed away at 20 years old in 2021.
I love cats so much. I’ve had them for many years. Their purrs are therapeutic to me.
I love their purrs..so soothing.
I love cats too. I have 2 - they almost never purr.
@@bambinaforever1402 rub their bellies 😂 I'm sure they'll.
I guess you are beautiful. Cat lovers tend to have pretty faces
Same. Nothing makes me feel quite as “all right” as my cat purring happily while taking a snooze on top of me.
This documentary answers all of my questions that I have about the origin of our beloved companions. I learned a ton and I highly recommend watching if you're a cat lover and curious about this species.
When I moved into the apartment a small kitty came to me after a month or so. She just came in front of my doors and day by day she came a little more near me until finally she entered my apartment and we live together ever since. 😊 She goes out whenever she wants, she catches birds very often and brings them to the apartment. I panic when she does that but I understand that's her nature. But I know she don't come to me just for food. When I'm sick, she sleeps next to me , when my stomach hurts she lay near my stomach. She just knows what I need and I know what she needs too and more then anything she needs love and care. I'm sure my cat loves me, I can feel it. Even if cats chose to put their own needs in front of ours they're still there for us when we need them. There is nothing better then hugging a cat when you're sad. Cat helped me survive so many things in my life, without her I wouldn't be the same...
I've never had an aloof cat in my life! I've only been loved by cats, to the point of nearly being smothered with that love. They just won't leave me alone, ever. Always have to be be near me, always have to be the center of my attention, even if they've already had their meal.
I also disagree that food is the main motivator for cats to want to be with you.
I was sitting on my patio on a sunny day. I was reading a book, heard a noise, and looked up towards the patio wall. There staring at me was a beautiful gray cat with a white mask around her eyes, and one leg that was white. What struck me was her muted and muffled meow. I immediately saw why she sounded odd; she had a newborn kitten in her mouth. So new it still had the umbilical on its tiny belly... It was just hanging there, limp and quiet, but alive. I just looked at the cat and asked her where she came from? She jumped down to my patio and went to my sliding door.
I wasn't really keen on a cat coming into my life since my beloved kitty had died a couple months prior, and I still was heartbroken. But she was insistent. She'd put her baby down, then come over to me and meow, walk back over to baby and back to me to meow.
I got up and opened my sliding door. She went in and walked around my apartment, looking around with her baby in her mouth. She went into my bedroom and walked around until she found my closet. She went to the far corner of my closet and put her baby down, licked the baby, then walked out to my sliding door and started meowing with an urgent tone. I opened the door and she went out, up and over my patio wall. I went back in and got an old electric blanket, put a couple towels over it, bunched it up and turned it on.
It was quite awhile she was gone, and I started worrying about how I was going to take care of a not more than a day old kitten and keep it alive? Finally I heard her meowing at my door again. I went to let her in and she had another baby in her mouth. She went straight to my room and plopped her other baby down with the first one, investigated the blanket I had put down and placed her baby on. She looked at me a minute and went back out, meowed at my door again.
I let her out and she jumped up and over my wall again. I went to look over my wall to see which way she was heading, but she only went to the edge of the sidewalk and grass. Apparently she had gone and got one then the other and brought them back. I let her in and she took this one to my bedroom closet to join the others. She laid down with them, they found their teats and suckled while she purred.
I watched for a minute, then left to go to the store for food and all the stuff cats need.
So food isn't always a motivator. This cat wanted a safe and loving place to take her babies to. She chose me and my place.
Before anyone thinks she was probably in my place before, no. I took her to the vet to make sure everything was healthy with her and her kittens and got her vaccinations started. He told me she was about a year and a half old. I had been living in my apartment for five years and never saw her around before.
A sense of safety and comfort can also be a big motivator for a cat to choose to want to be with a certain person.
She died of old age about 12 years later. And no, she never had another litter of babies again.
Very sweet story. You're an awesome person. Cats are very intuitive & she knew that. Thanks for sharing
I've always been a cat person, they're quiet and independent animals and not rambunctious like dogs. At age 7, I got my first cat, Francis, a black and white half american shorthair half manx and it was just him, my mom, and my dad for about 6 years until we adopted our second cat, Margaret, a gray and white American shorthair. Francis sadly had to be put down this year, but we still have Margaret. I will always have cats for pets.
Did anyone ever doubt cats' intelligence? All the cats I've had knew exactly how to get everything they ever dreamed of and gave nothing in return unless they felt like it. And they did it without ever doing anything you could call "wrong." So....yeah, cats are intelligent!! Each cat is unique, and cats can be so loving. Cats can also intuit illness and disorders in humans. And they are so good at keeping you from getting too big for your britches. A human who has a cat they love is rarely an egomaniac. ❤
Excellent comment!
YES How true the cats are extremely intuitive. And my kitty licks away my tears. He will NOT allow anyone that is negative in my space. And his. I will cry by stupid fool self the day he leaves me. Two of my adult children know this about kitty and have admitted they were jealous. Haha! You kids grow up and live your life. My kitty will never leave me..Even if I had some wet cat food and catnip. A kitty catnip party. 😊
You are spot on, Hitler was a dog person.
Cats have twice the neurons of dogs.
No.
Great stuff, been a fan of NOVA since the beginning and cats more recently. We had dogs all my young life until My wife brought a Norwegian Forest Cat home from her clinic and I fell in love with him, when he (Eddy) passed we got a pair, Thorbjorn and Asbjorn, and they are just the greatest companions. I don't think I could have gotten thru Chemo and a Bone Marrow Transplant without them. Now I cannot imagine a home without a cat or cats!
I love Norwegian Forest Cats, there’s one in my neighborhood that goes from house to house getting treats from everyone. He’s a bit of a celebrity and his personality is so endearing. My favorite breed are Maine Coons, their temperament is similar to Norwegians.
I’m glad you are doing better now. Most Cats are great emotional support animals, my MC Kira can read my moods and won’t leave my side when I’m sick or depressed.
beautiful
@@silvermainecoons3269 Don't some of these large Northern cats have small ear tufts similar to the much larger tufts seen on lynxes and bobcats? (The tufts I believe are just extra long hair in that spot) might help with directional hearing?
@@davidpowell3347 Yes, Maine Coons definitely have large ear tufts, especially Maine Coons bred in Russia. They have ear tufts that rival the size of bobcats and lynxes. My Maine Coon was born in California and has tiny, dainty little tufts but they’re nowhere near the size of bobcats. You’re right, the latest theory on the tufts is they help the cats hone in on small prey they can’t see; only hear under the snow, or in tall grass. African Caracals have the cutest, most ridiculously long ear tufts.
It’s so weird, I’ve been getting a ton of questions on UA-cam about bobcats and lynxes, including some conversations that stupidly devolved into fights if you can believe that. Mainly comments from hunters that think lynxes and bobcats are the same animal and get irate when I tell them they are in the same genus, but different species. Some people will fight about anything. 🙄😹😼 So thanks for being polite.
@@davidpowell3347 I forgot to add that Norwegian Forest Cats, Siberians, and Ragdolls can also have ear tufts, they are usually smaller than Maine Coons’ tufts tho. 🐈
Me and my children were left alone many years ago, and then cats came along.Cats are our beloved friends not only pets but family members.Nowadays we share our lives with 5 of them
I am living in poverty in my RV in the big city, but as hard as life is my cat makes me sooooo happy! She loves to ride up on the dashboard as I drive the big motorhome from place to place. Cat's are perfect creatures.
Oh, btw.. I don't need an alarm clock anymore. She's walks up and down me meowing until I wake up and love her & feed her 💗 I love her sooooo much!
Last year a kitten came to our door and my wife and son let it in and put it in my office because our son is mildly allergic and my wife does not like cats in the house. I was always fascinated by and loved cats. I tried to give the kitten away but could find no takers, it was then that I learned a lot more people dislike cats than I imagined. I knew since I was a child that some people feared cats. I still have the cat and she is well aware that my wife and son do not appreciate her presence so she is quiet in the office until I come home and she hears my voice. She really does seem more interested in personal contact with me than just being let loose to roam free in the house or even being fed. I will let her out and notice her food and water bowl are full and yet she often scratches at the door and jumps onto my desk to rub up against me and be petted. I wonder if some people are genetically disposed to liking cats more than others and vice versa?
I don’t trust people who don’t like cats.
For those who can’t read cats - their ears are like our eyebrows. It’s so obvious. Their eye expressions are just like ours. It’s not confusing. They use body language as well. Their tail communicate a ton. They have different meows that mean different things. If unfamiliar with cats and their expressions, like the supposed researchers in this video, spend time with them and pay attention
Absolutely. If ears are just normal, that’s neutral/ normal. And if both ears are perked forward - that’s like raised eyebrows. If one ear is turned to the side and the other forward, that’s like normal eyebrow and one lowered eyebrow. If both are turned to the side, that’s like two lowered eyebrows, mildly annoyed. If both are turned back, that’s fear or mad. And all that is just ears, a brief summary. There’s everything else, too - eyes, tail, body position, etc. A lot of humans think cats are mean, negative, vs what the cat’s real and individual personality actually is. I generally find those people are experienced with cats, but who still can’t understand cats, ofte also lack ability to read anything beyond superficial cues from humans, too.
Interesting observation.@@Jessica-kk1cz
Not to mention their whiskers.
That’s right like for example When frightened, some cats may hide, try to appear smaller, pull their ears back and be immobile. Other cats may show signs of agitation such as dilated pupils, arched back, pilo-erection (hair standing on end) then is a angry kitty or cats that protect their owners they would do this because when I was attacked by a dog as a toddler a grey tabby came running towards the dog and had that body posture with the ears down hissing and the pupils are dilated and fur standing up with the arch back and growling and hissing that grey tabby I guess heard me crying and for him it sounded like a kitten crying for help he was on a mission to save me and chase the dog off kinda like the story of a boy that was attacked by the neighbor’s dog and the cat ran quickly towards him and chase him away it’s called the story of Tara and Jeremy a four year old boy
Most people confuse cat body language with that of dogs. For example, almost everyone thinks a cat flopping is an invitation to rub its tummy, because it's something dogs usually enjoy. But in cats it just means "I don't wanna fight" or "I trust you" depending on the context.
I'm endlessly fascinated by cat face and body expressions, and how cats learn to communicate with humans. They have so many parts they can use to express themselves; ears, eyes, whiskers, tail, voice. It can take some serious study on our part, but once you learn to read them they can be very clear, especially your own cat. For example, one of my cats has me trained to her expression and behavior so well; when we're snuggling she can tell me if she wants help getting down or shifting position, just based on yawns and lip smacking. It's amazing.
As someone who grew up around lots of cats but hardly any dogs, the popular idea that "cats aren't as emotionally expressive as dogs/are harder to read than dogs" baffles me! I've been able to read cats pretty effortlessly since I was a kid (partially because I made some effort to learn how), but it's taken a lot more effort to develop even a _basic_ ability to read dogs. Cats are SO expressive ALL over their body (including their face!), but so many humans miss all of it because they're _only_ looking for human-like expressions in the face.
I wonder if me being autistic has something to do with this too? I struggle to read human facial expressions, so maybe that's why reading dogs doesn't come naturally to me, either.
My mother works with a woman who owns a few small businesses. One of which my mom works at with her -- It's a used mostly clothing store.
Anyway, this wonderful woman is always on-the-go between her businesses & the rental homes that she owns. But, may the Good Lord bless this woman. She spends her almost non-existent free-time in a virtuous way: She traps stray cats where folks frequently dump unwanted litters. She takes them to a vet -- She has them medically taken care of, fixed/neutered, and then goes about trying to find lifetime homes for these critters.
This woman does all of this, entirely voluntarily, spending her well-deserved down-time doing this -- Spending her own money on caring for these animals.
I have respect for this woman beyond any appropriate description.
May God bless you all.
Domari Nolo
PA III
My cat, Jordan, is 15 yrs old. I trained her at 5 months, etc... This was great to watch! I know her mannerisms and have been scratched, bitten and subjected to her instincts. I have no problem with it because she is a "cat" as I know. I hope she lives forever! She is a great kitty who makes my life complete.
I have been a cat lover all my life. Now I love cats and dogs. They compliment each other, and they do their jobs regardless of each other
“Tell me that nobody involved with this production was fluent in ‘speaking’ cat without saying that nobody in this production is fluent in speaking cat.”
How to read a cat’s emotions: watch the ears, watch the eyes (pupil dilation), watch the mouth (they do smile), watch the tail. If you pay attention to the totality, you can have a decent idea about what they’re feeling.
And, no, cats don’t do appeasement / guilt.
Loved the last part! Wish they had talked more about cat's body language. You can tell a lot about how a cat is by looking at how they hold their ears and move their tails.
And how they squint their eyes
Exactly. Ears, tail, and eyes and you can tell almost exactly what a cat is going to do.
Cats in an alley. Thats what i thought when i woke up the morning after my daughter was born. I woke up wondering why i was in an alley, and why so many cats?
I was actually in the hospital at 6am feeding time for the newborns and they were all lined up in the hallway waiting to go into their mother's rooms for the all natural milk bar! There were many babies born that week. There were at least 20 babies waiting for breakfast. Out of all the babies in that hallway, i got out of bed and went directly to my daughter's bassinet. I had never heard her cry before, but i knew that the sound i picked out of so many babies crying in that hallway was that of my child.
I went from "cats in an alley", to finding MY baby among 20 crying infants - in three seconds flat.
And yes, i love cats. They are amazing.❤
Since I was a kid, I’ve always been able to tell what my cat’s liked or dislike. Spoke 3 languages to them and somehow they understood and obeyed me. I dont know how can people not figure them out. They are amazing intelligent animals with their own personalities you have to respect.
I had a cat that LOVED food (he was overweight), but was not necessarily motivate by food to learn. He seems to just enjoy learning. Taught him all kinds of tricks like: sit, stay, roll-over, shake, stand jump up, jump down etc. My current cat knows no tricks whatsoever, and doesn't seem interested in learning anything. So there is also the aspect of domesticated cats having WILDLY differing personalities.
edited to add more detail.
I had a tuxedo kitty that I worried about letting outside due to the street I lived on. It was a side street not much traffic, but a thru street people would speed down. So when Beener was a kitten I started holding him him going across the street. If I heard a car I'd pull him in close and in panic voice say, "OH NO A CAR.." Then I'd show him to wait for quiet and no cars before we'd cross. One day I happened to be outside and there was Beener in front of a parked car bending his head around front tire looking both ways & listening for cars. I couldn't believe he actually learned this! I miss him so much...all my other kitties too!
Maybe not the best name for a cat!!!😂
2:46 Everything likes food, but I've had several cats that will come to hang out and ignore food if I set it down, and countless times they have brought mice to my door step and even once dropped a dead mouse right on my pillow next to my head while I was sleeping. (I woke up immediately because of her trills and meows of joy and pride). I actually see humans think of one another less often than my cats think of my family and I.
Perhaps the reason they ignored the food at the time was because it did not want the food. It also knows it can get food from you at any time.
I’m not saying your cat does not care for you, nor that you don’t care for it, but sometimes we human read too much into animals and we _want_ them to be like we want. We see human qualities in them.
Cats have always been my favorite critter. I have only 3 now, but when I fostered, I once had 23. I love them all and I know they love me. I can't ever think of being without one.
NOVA is consistantly high quality, regardless of the topic. It has been one of my favorite programs since the beginning, in 1974.
And I am definitely a cat person!
I miss back when they didn't waste the first 3-4 minutes telling you what the episode was about. Old school NOVA could do it in about 30 seconds.
@@KingofCrusher Yes, they could. Sigh. Unfortunately we now live in a world of “infotainment” and it appears they believe their audience is a bunch of hard core stoners who don’t remember what we were told before the commercial break so it gets recapped ad nauseaum. The more advertising, the more “tainment.”
Yes, nova is consistently high
@@tundrawomansays694 Oh my god yeah the bumpers before and after commercials telling you what you're gonna see/what you've seen drive me f'n nuts! It's just an easy way to save money and turn 30 minutes of content into 43.
I've appreciated NOVA that long as well!
I think cats do have facial expressions. Perhaps because I've been around cats from birth to my now 60+ years. Their eyes are very expressive, as are their body language, too.
A rusty tabby named Harry passed in 2020, he was 18. I have never cried so hard. Anguish. Now it's grey tabby Oskar and orange angora Max. 💖
Anyone who has a cat know that they are home entertainment centers. They are very communicative. You just have to take the time to connect the dots with them and everyone is different. At my house I am their staff. Cats are all about trust. They like consistancy and predictable behavior. I have had cats all my life and done rescues. In my world when I am adopting out a cat, the cat picks the person. The person never picks the cat. Never had an adoption fail. I am the cat lady in my family and amongst my friends and I love every moment. When you fulfill your cats needs, you have a happy cat and you in return get the love and devotion from your cat. Complex creatures with simple needs.
Thank you for being a wonderful, caring angel.
Personally I don't think all cats are so unpersonable. My cat will come when called every time without food (even more than my dog). He is also always wanting attention, almost to the point where it is excessive and annoying. I can read his expressions through his body more than his face. A tail or ear swish, body position in a crouch or sprawl all tell me how he's feeling. I think it just depends on the cat's personality and how well the human knows their cat.
Yes, body movements are more useful than facial expressions.
Most cats are incredibly personable. . .you just have to get it out of your head they aren't dogs and communicate differently. Once you learn how they communicate? They're not overly difficult to read. . .especially if you happen to have a vocal cat.
Cats are amazing! I have 3 cats 2 of them are mom and son. Mom named Cleo, son is named Marbles and the other non-related one her name is Cookie. They have their unique personality. Cleo is loving but at the same time she wants to be left alone. Marbles is very affectionate he follows me every where i go. He always wants to be by my side. Cookie is independent, curious and a big trouble maker lol she only comes around when she wants to. I love all my babies 😻😻😻
Here’s an observation that might be worth noting…
I am a person who, years ago, experienced a traumatic brain injury that severely damaged, among other things, my frontal lobes. As a result, my emotional reactions to common stimuli are elevated and difficult to control.
Still, over the years,to facilitate social interactions, I have developed an ability to hide many of the external indicators illustrating the emotional maelstrom I experience internally…
Much like cats whose “subtle gestures” express emotions in ways that are difficult for most humans to understand… Although not for the same reasons.
In the Interim, there is a feral cat in my neighborhood who notoriously avoids nearly all human contact. Yet I have managed to establish a limited trust with this cat… If it has been unsuccessful hunting, it will come to my back door and ask for food, which I willingly provide. If a door is left open and unattended, it will come in and spend a few days, then let me know when it wants to leave.
NOVA always brings the quality content, but this one wasn't long enough. i easily could have watched another three hours just about cats!🐱❤🐯
This series has been running since the 70s, surely this can't be the first episode they've had about cats...
Yeah, same here.
Last September 2023, I rescued a weeks-old fragile kitten with a broken leg. I tried to keep and provide her home, and a family. I named her Appa, after Aang's flying bison (Avatar: the last air bender). Sadly, she passed away 1 week after I got her. I never expected the pain it cost me. I am still grieving until now. I've been a dog person ever since I was a kid, and allow me to just say it only takes one cat to change your perspective of them. Appa made me a better person. Now I am an advocate and rescuer, and I am very vocal about taking care of stray cats. Appa touched my core and I will continue feeding and loving strays. I will honor her name forever.
Appa, I hope you are proud of me. Thank you for touching my life despite our very short time. I miss you every day. See you in time.
Thank cats for everything they have done for us. If we can accept the cuteness of cats, then we must accept everything, the best family, the best companionship, and we must also give him the best gifts.