Scientists say that, yes, your cat chooses to ignore you.

Researchers at the University of Tokyo say that while Mr. Whiskers recognizes his name when you call, he deliberately chooses to ignore you. The reason? Years of evolutionary behavior have made the cat feel it doesn't need you--at least not the same way a dog feels.

All domesticated cats today evolved from Felis silvestris, a species of cat which roamed wildly among ancient humans. As humanity evolved from hunter-gatherers to farmers, the wild cats went where easy food was--which happened to be rodents relaxing amongst humanity's crops.

In essence, scientists say, cats chose to domesticate themselves, unlike dogs, explaining their indifference. Dogs, through generations of being commanded what to do, have come to need humanity's attention. Cats? Not so much.

That doesn't necessarily explain why Mr. Whiskers ignores you though. He just might hate you.



photo: Petfinder