A 2017 theoretical physics paper suggested that cats are somewhat liquid based on their ability to squeeze into tight spaces. In a new study by biologist Péter Pongrácz, cats were physically tested to determine when they act more like liquids or solids. These experiments indicated that cats are aware of their body sizes and may form mental images of themselves, influencing their behavior.
Pongrácz initially tested dogs in a lab and found that they are capable of self-representation, relying on an awareness of their body size to make decisions. This prompted him to wonder about cats and their behavior in similar situations. Facing challenges in testing cats in a lab, Pongrácz decided to bring the lab to the cats by building a portable setup in the homes of cat owners in Budapest. This unique approach allowed for a more natural environment, preventing stress caused by a lab setting.
Through the experiments, cats were tasked with traversing panels with varying hole sizes. Cats had to squeeze through holes of decreasing width or height while being filmed. The results showed that cats hesitated more when faced with shorter holes rather than narrower ones. This strategy of trial-and-error suggests that cats rely on body size representation to navigate through spaces, potentially as a self-preservation strategy in nature.
While the experiment was challenging due to the nature of cats and their aversion to direction, majority of the cats completed the trials. The hesitation shown by the cats when navigating through shorter holes suggests a cautious approach, likely related to avoiding potential threats. This hesitation even in the safety of their homes indicates that cats rely on mental representations of their body sizes to plan their movements.
The simplicity and elegance of Pongrácz’s experiment have been commended by others in the field. Sridhar Ravi, who conducted a similar study on bumblebees, notes that cats may exhibit different behaviors based on their reasons for squeezing through holes. Despite the challenges in testing cats, Pongrácz found the process enjoyable, particularly interacting with the unique behaviors of different cats and their owners’ reactions.
In conclusion, the study on cat behavior sheds light on their self-awareness and body size representation. Cats utilize this mental imagery to navigate through spaces and may display caution in potentially risky situations. This research adds to the understanding of feline behavior and highlights the complexities of animal cognition and decision-making processes.
