Why Do Cats Knead?

The video explores why domestic cats knead, a behavior not seen in wildcats. It discusses theories such as territory marking and neotenic behavior, where juvenile traits are retained in adulthood. The video explains that domestication has led to more social behaviors in cats, unlike their wild ancestors, Felis Silvestris, who are solitary hunters. Domesticated cats have adapted their social behaviors to interact with humans, using kneading as a sign of trust and safety.

What is one theory about why cats make biscuits on humans?

• To express hunger

• To prepare for sleep

• To mark their territory

• To sharpen their claws

What is a neotenic behavior?

• A behavior that is learned in adulthood

• A behavior that is unique to cats

• A behavior that is only found in wild animals

• A juvenile trait retained into adulthood

Why have humans selected for neotenic behaviors in domesticated animals?

• To make them more social and less aggressive

• To increase their size

• To enhance their hunting skills

• To make them more aggressive

How do wildcats typically interact with other animals?

• They are very social and love to cuddle

• They only socialize when it's time to breed

• They often play with other species

• They form large social groups

What is one reason domesticated cats have more social behaviors than wildcats?

• They are naturally more intelligent

• They have retained juvenile traits

• They have been trained by humans

• They have a larger brain size