International Journal of Molecular Zoology 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 1-8 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 1 A Review Open Access Analysis of Cat's Communication Style and Cognitive Ability Mengyi Xu Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, China Corresponding author email: 2373950793@qq.com International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.1 doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0001 Received: 29 Oct., 2023 Accepted: 08 Dec., 2023 Published: 01 Jan., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Xu, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Xu M.Y., 2024, Analysis of cat's communication style and cognitive ability, International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 14(1): 1-8 (doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0001) Abstract Cats, as social animals, employ various methods to communicate and express themselves. This review aims to explore the diverse communication methods of cats, including vocalizations, postures, olfactory cues, and physical contact, as well as their cognitive abilities. Vocal communication is particularly prominent, with purring, meowing, growling, and hissing conveying different emotions and needs. Additionally, postures and movements also serve as a means of communication for cats, such as body rubbing, shoulder raising, and stretching. Olfactory communication, through licking and cheek rubbing, helps cats identify identities and states. Lastly, the review delves into the cognitive abilities of cats, including olfactory acuity, spatial awareness, problem-solving skills, and emotional recognition. These unique communication methods and cognitive abilities enrich our interaction with cats, providing deeper insights into their colorful inner world. Keywords Cat communication; Vocalizations and postures; Olfactory and physical contact; Cognitive abilities; Social interaction Cats, as typical representatives of social animals, communicate and express themselves in various complex and subtle ways. In human life, cats have become indispensable companions, and understanding their communication methods and cognitive abilities can help people better interact with them and establish deep connections. Whether they act as companions in leisure or exhibit fascinating behaviors in their own world, cats interact with humans in their unique ways (Turner and Bateson, 2014). However, delving into the communication methods and cognitive abilities of cats is a topic that few have genuinely contemplated. That's precisely why this review is fortunate to take this perspective, offering a glimpse into the mysteries of cat communication and the remarkable intelligence they display in adapting to their environment and forming emotional bonds. In the communication of cats, various forms such as sound, posture, olfaction, and physical contact interweave to create a delicate language. Cat vocalizations include purring, meowing, growling, and hissing, each conveying different emotions and information (Vitale, 2022). Additionally, cat postures and actions play significant roles, such as body rubbing, shoulder shrugs, and stretching, expressing their emotional states and intentions. Olfactory communication is a unique method for cats, as grooming and cheek rubbing serve not only for grooming but also for conveying scent information, used for marking territory or expressing closeness. Furthermore, tactile communication is also vital in cat social interactions, with intimate physical contact conveying feelings of friendliness, closeness, and comfort. At the same time, the cognitive abilities of cats are a fascinating subject of inquiry. Their acute sense of smell gives scent a prominent role in feline cognition, enabling them to identify the identity, emotions, and status of conspecifics through scent. Cats are also highly sensitive to spatial perception, accurately recognizing their territory and adapting to changes in different environments. Problem-solving ability is another standout feature of cats, as they tend to independently address problems, even using their paws, mouths, and other tools to solve them. In terms of emotional cognition, cats' sensitivity to their owners' emotions is astonishing, expressing joy, anger, sadness, and happiness through various cognitive behaviors, thus forming deep bonds with humans. By delving into the social communication methods and cognitive abilities of cats, humans can gain a better understanding of these adorable creatures. This review will provide a detailed analysis of cat vocal communication, postures and actions, olfactory communication, tactile communication, and emotional cognition,
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