Today, as usual, I was talking to my cat as he sat on my lap while I was in bed. Like all cats he likes to sit on or close to me in bed for the emotional and physical warmth. I looked into his eyes and really saw his face; clearly now. His character was in his face and I knew his character, oh so well. Character colours facial appearance and that basic philosophical point works equally well for relationships between humans and their companion animals and between humans.
Seeing your pet’s facial appearance clearly. Infographic. by Michael BroadThe obvious lesson to be taken from this is that the relationship a person has with their companion animal deepens with time provided it is loving, respectful and understanding. This deep affection which puts our pet’s facial appearance into sharp focus comes from a solid, enduring bond over many years.
Many people who don’t know cats or live with one often see cats as a homogenous mass. All cats are the same to many people. It is a bit like having the perception that all people of a certain race have the same appearance. It is entirely incorrect but borne out of a lack of longstanding relationships with people of this race.
Being able to see a pet’s face clearly which allows their personality to shine through comes from a deep, enduring relationship. That’s the obvious point which I’d like to drum home.
More: human behavior
