Almost every cat owner has faced a situation: you call your pet, you are sure that he hears, but he does not even turn his head. Even if the cat or cats are standing right in front of you: you call, but he won’t even turn his head. At first it can be annoying, then cause bewilderment, and sometimes even resentment. In fact, everything is much simpler and more interesting at the same time – the cat does not ignore you intentionally, he just behaves as nature tells him.
Cats are animals with a special character. They were formed as independent hunters who survived thanks to their own decisions and independence. Unlike dogs, which gradually became social and command-oriented, the cat never had this need. It has always remained individualistic, and this character has migrated into modern apartments and homes. Therefore, even if a cat recognizes your voice perfectly, which has been proven by numerous studies, it is not at all obliged to immediately run to you. She knows that you call her, but the choice – to react or not – is always left to her.
Another reason for “ignoring” lies in associations. If you often call your cat for procedures that are unpleasant for her – bathing, clipping her nails or taking medication – she will begin to associate your voice with undesirable events. And then avoiding the call will become its natural response. On the contrary, if after the call he is waiting for affection, play or goodies, the pet will begin to perceive your “kitty-kitty” as a signal of something good. Here is a simple logic: the cat does only what is profitable and pleasant to him.
Do not forget about the cat’s moods. Your pet may not react simply because he is comfortable on the couch, he looked out the window or carried away by a toy. In these moments, any call becomes secondary for him. This is not a manifestation of indifference to the owner, but only a sign that cats live in their own rhythm, where human desires are not always in first place. In addition, the cat can consciously demonstrate its independence, as if reminding that he is also the master in the house.
For humans, it is important not to perceive this as neglect. The cat does not refuse you and does not try to offend. He just has a different way of doing things. So the best solution is to learn to find a balance. Use an affectionate voice, don’t call the cat for nothing, and most importantly, make pleasant associations. Let your call be associated with warmth, care or a favorite treat. Then he himself will want to approach, because he will realize that it is good to be with you.
As a result, it becomes obvious that ignoring is not a sign of dislike, but a manifestation of the cat’s nature. Independence, selectivity and the desire to control the situation is part of their character. And that’s what makes cats so special. If you learn to respect this independence while properly motivating your pet, you will get much more attention and affection than you might expect. Because a cat that comes of its own volition does so sincerely – and that’s probably the best declaration of its love for you.
