About Cats |
BEHAVIOR
Given that their genes have changed little from their wildcat ancestors, it is no wonder the domestic cat has retained most of the behaviors and mannerisms of its close wild relatives. Today’s housecat has kept so much of its natural instincts and abilities that, in fact, it can survive in the wild and hunt for its own food. Indeed, domestic cats signal and communicate with tail movements, postures, ear movements, etc. in almost identical ways to wildcats. Their ability to stalk, hunt and take down prey also closely mimics their wildcat ancestors.
Like their wild counterparts, cats are primarily solitary hunters and are not pack animals. They are also both predators and prey. The cat’s close genetic link with its forbearers can explain its reaction to pain and injury as well. Just like wildcats when injured or in pain, a domestic cat is not likely to vocalize and draw attention to itself but instead seeks a place to hide and stay quiet to avoid attracting unwanted attention from predators.