Expert QA

Is it a myth that all cats are loners? My cat seems to be forever at my side craving attention.

From the Editors of The Daily Cat

Regular, positive reinforcement can train animals, including humans and cats, to expect certain good outcomes. For example, you may enjoy a cup of coffee every morning. After a period of time, you develop a craving for that morning cup of joe. The same is true for cats that have been socialized, or have enjoyed positive interaction with humans, usually from a young age. It's possible to socialize older, feral cats, but they're not all equally receptive, and the process becomes more difficult as felines age. While it is a myth that all cats are loners, felines also value their solitary moments. Most let you know when they need a break from your attention. This is not a bad lesson for us humans to follow -- we, too, could take a few minutes each day for ourselves. Domestic cats, on the other hand, seem to have found the perfect balance between solitude and socializing.