Cats are known to be rather mysterious creatures, something their owners can attest to lovingly. From the ways they communicate to their preferences in food, there’s so much to learn about them. Each cat has their own unique quirks, of course, but like humans, there’s quite a lot they have in common. In fact, I’ve gathered together some of my favorite little-known cat traits!
So whether you have a cat of your own, are considering getting one, or simply enjoy appreciating felines from afar, here are five fun facts about cats that you may not know already. And if you’re wondering: Yes, they will make you love them even more.
1. Cats, camels, and giraffes walk the same way — and they’re the only animals who do.
Ever noticed the way a cat walks? When their left hind leg goes forward, so does their left foreleg, and the same goes for their right legs! The only other animals who walk like this are camels and giraffes.
2. When a cat’s tail resembles a question mark, it means they’re asking you to play!
3. Cats are one of the few mammals known to not have a sweet tooth.
Scientists in 2005 discovered that they simply don’t have the “hardwire” needed to taste sweets. Instead, they were built for lots of meat. This makes it difficult for them to process carbohydrates and, in turn, can lead to diabetes. So even if a cat enjoys the smell or texture of a sweet, or even other elements like the salt, it’s recommended to not let them go overboard.
4. Whiskers help cats determine where they can squeeze into, something that no doubt aids them in moments of “if I fits, I sits.”
A cat’s whiskers help them navigate the world. And because they’re about the same width as their body, cats use them as a way to figure out if a space is wide enough for them.
5. Cats developed meowing just so they could talk to us humans.
In fact, a 2003 study showed that cats develop different meows based on their needs that are so specific, only their humans can tell the differences between them. So you and your cat have your own language!
While there’s much more to learn about the fascinating felines we adore, these five facts alone give us a better understanding of them. Sure, they may still be mysterious, but that’s just another thing to love about them!
You can find the sources of this story’s featured image here and here!
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