The smartest cat breeds

Every cat owner knows that it doesn’t take long to observe a pet to understand that it is highly intelligent.

Despite their relatively small brains, studies have shown that cats have high emotional intelligence and great adaptability, making them one of the most intelligent creatures in the world.

While there is no standardized test to measure intelligence in cats, researchers have studied how cats’ ability to adapt, their level of curiosity, and their need for mental stimulation correlate with their intelligence.

Scientists have also studied their sociability with people and other pets, as well as their willingness to interact with their owners.

Speaking to MailOnline, Samantha Watson, RSPCA Research Fellow, explained that measuring intelligence in cats is challenging: “Scientifically speaking, there is no universal measure of intelligence in animals. Each species has evolved to fit in its niche. A mental ability that is beneficial to one species may not be conducive to the survival of another.”

Some evidence indicates that certain cat breeds are more active and friendly to people. However, each cat is a unique individual, and there are significant differences within each breed.

There are several ways to check how smart your cat is:

1. Does he respond to his own name?

People tend to think that cats cannot learn their own names, unlike dogs. But numerous studies prove that cats do recognize when they are called by name.

You can tell if your cat knows its name by the slight movement of its tail or ear twitch.

2. Does he know what time it is?

Obviously, like most animals, cats know when it is day and night. They also know when it’s time to eat. This is called associative learning and indicates that domestic cats have adapted to life with humans.

3. Does it capture your emotions?

While cats are often seen as less emotional than our friendly dogs, studies have shown that they do understand human emotions.

Dr. Kristin Vitale of Oregon State University tested the cats to see if they sense fear or joy. She placed the cat in front of a serpentine fan and then asked the owner to pretend either fear or joy. The more socially adapted a cat is, the more likely it is to respond to expressed emotions.

4. Can your cat learn basic commands?

We teach our dogs to sit and lie down, and many people think that there is no point in teaching cats. However, some cats can learn basic commands, including sit, stand, and approach.

One of Dr. Vitale’s cats can even jump, high five, and ring a bell.

Christina DENISYUK.

Photo: Shutterstock / evrymmnt