Question: The domestic cat having inherited its wildcat ancestor’s characteristics and living in a human environment is instinctively cautious and at times defensive of, for example, unknown objects and strangers etc. Agree?
Response would be: Absolutely! Just like humans, cats have unique personalities that influence how they react to new situations. Confident and social cats may approach unfamiliar objects or strangers with curiosity, while timid or highly alert cats might retreat or show defensive behaviors. Some cats are naturally more laid-back and tolerant, making them less reactive to changes, whereas others are more energetic or high-strung, leading to heightened responses to unfamiliar stimuli. Their reactions are also shaped by early experiences, socialization, and even their breed tendencies.
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Statement: But there is this underlying caution because of their wild cat inherited behaviour and the fact that they are living within the human environment notwithstanding that they have adapted well to it.
Confirmation: Yes, exactly! Despite their domestication and adaptation to human environments, cats still possess an inherent caution rooted in their wildcat ancestry. This instinct helps them stay alert to potential threats, even in the safety of a home. While they have learned to navigate human surroundings, their survival-driven behaviors—such as being wary of sudden movements, unfamiliar objects, or strangers—persist. This underlying caution is a key reason why cats often take time to trust new people or adjust to changes in their environment, ensuring their safety while coexisting with humans.
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Note: I was engaged in an IM with an AI chatbot: ChatGPT. AI obtains its information from countless sources on the internet. Nowadays AI chatbots are extremely reliable and accurate.
