DO CATS HAVE FRIENDS?

Typically seen as aloof or elusive, cats have more 'depth' than meets the eye, explain animal experts

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Domestic cats have been living alongside humans for an estimated 10,000 years, first as rodent control and then as the couch-warmers we know and love. A far cry from the lone predator lifestyle of their ancestors, today millions of cats worldwide live within human families. More than 30% of households in the United States and Australia own a cat.

Humans highly value the relationships we share with these furry companions, frequently considering them friends, family members or even “children”. And this sentiment may be shared, with cats demonstrating affection through seeking out our company, physical contact and engaging in play. Like a secret language between friends, there is even evidence to suggest cats have developed specific vocalisations to communicate with their owners.

Despite this, cats are typically seen as aloof and elusive. But how true is this? Do cats form friendships beyond us?

A complex recipe

Firstly, what does a cat friendship look like? Behaviours that may indicate friendship between two cats include social grooming, such as licking each other’s fur, head rubbing, spending time together and playing together. In contrast, behaviours such as charging, fighting or chasing may indicate a disagreement is brewing or already underway.