You’ve probably heard the tales of cats’ incredible homing instincts, their ability to remember their names, and where they left their last meal. Is this routine, or do cats actually boast an impressive memory? Let’s dive into what an expert has to say.
With a whopping 300 million neurons to a dog’s 160 million, it’s clear cats have the capacity to remember, such as their names, for instance. But the real question is, how does their memory actually work? And for all the cat lovers worried their furry friend might forget them if they’re gone too long, fear not. Cats express their emotions differently than dogs, but that doesn’t mean they forget you or love you any less!
Do Cats Have Memory?
Cats possess a short-term memory span of about sixteen hours, useful for everyday survival. They tend to remember practical things like where their food is or safe hiding spots in the house. Cats can also remember what to steer clear of to avoid danger.
When it comes to long-term memory, studies have shown that a cat may retain certain life events for up to three years, given those events are significant to them. However, like in humans, a cat’s memory can start to wane with age, usually around twelve years old.
Do Cats Remember Their Owners?
Absolutely, cats remember their owners. Since it’s their owner who provides for their basic survival needs like food and shelter, cats typically remember their human companions for life, up to the point where memory degradation might occur. Important and survival-related events, in particular, are more likely to be remembered.
Cats also have a highly developed sense of smell, which helps them navigate and mark their territory. Thanks to their ability to leave scent marks, cats remember:
- The way back home
- Where their essentials are, such as their bed, litter box, toys, etc.
So, the next time you worry your cat might have forgotten you after a long trip away, just remember that chances are, they haven’t. Their sharp memory, combined with their acute sense of smell, ensures you remain a significant part of their life. Whether it’s following the scent trail back to their cozy spot on the couch or remembering the sound of your car pulling into the driveway, these little furballs have more going on upstairs than we sometimes give them credit for.
