Why Cats Don’t Come When Called

Why cats don’t always respond when called, and what you can do about it?

Today we have a guest post from Jessi Klein, the co-creator of Find Cat Names, about a topic many of us have considered: why don’t some cats come when their names are called?

Science has confirmed something cat owners have known for years: Cats recognize their own names, but just don’t care to respond when called.

The University of Tokyo conducted a study on 20 housecats last fall. Researchers recorded cat owners calling their pet’s name followed by three strangers doing the same thing, and played this tape in another room in the house.

Each time, the cats displayed “orientating behavior” (moving their heads and ears about to locate where the sound was coming from) when they heard their name. The animals showed a greater response when they heard their owner’s voice, but in both cases, they never moved.

Before you write it off as cats being rude and stubborn, let’s take a look back. Way back.

The relationship between cats and humans dates back 9,000 or so years ago when humans began developing agriculture. Their stores of grain attracted rodents and soon cats moved in, effectively “domesticating themselves,” according to the researchers.

It was a mutually beneficial situation for both parties: Cats had a food source and humans got rid of pests.

In comparison, man’s relationship with dogs was much different. Human and canine interaction dates back 30,000 years ago, and it was the former who did the domesticating.

Dogs were bred for thousands of years to obey human commands, leading up to the modern-day obedient animal.

So, with thousands of years of evolution against them, what’s a cat owner to do?

First off, don’t fret. The study explained why cats don’t naturally follow their leader’s commands, but it doesn’t say that it’s not possible.

Here are a few steps to encourage your cat to come when called:

Make the name easy to remember

Cats respond better to short, clear names. Giving your cat a long, complicated name makes it harder for him or her to comprehend.

If you have given your cat a long name, consider a brief nickname.

Start small and be positive

The first obvious step is to teach your cat its name. Sit next to him or her and say the name in a positive tone. When the cat looks your way, provide a reward to signal that you approve.

What’s in it for them?

Naturally, cats are motivated by what you can give them. In the beginning, make sure to provide an incentive for coming to you, like a treat or small piece of chicken.

They’ll have a positive connection with coming to you on command.

It’s not you, it’s them

If you’re having difficulties getting your cat to respond when called, don’t take it personally.

Cats are amazing creatures, but as the study shows above, obedience doesn’t always come naturally.

And we love them all the more for it!

Jessi Klein is co-creator of Find Cat Names and My Dog’s Name, fun and easy-to-use websites that help you find the perfect pet name. She lives is Minneapolis with her husband and yellow Labrador Retriever, and is a proud auntie to two rambunctious cats.