Why Cats Aren't Trained for Tricks or Property Protection: Insights into Domestication and Behavior

There is a common misconception that a cat's ability to perform tricks is linked to its domestication. However, this is far from the truth. Domestication, in simple terms, refers to the process where an animal learns to interact and coexist with humans. It has nothing to do with the animal's ability to perform specific tasks or entertain us with acrobatic stunts. Cats may be called semi-domesticated, but this classification does not imply that they are easy to train to perform complex behaviors.

Domestication vs. Trainability

Cats, unlike dogs, are not simply pack animals who have evolved to live closely with humans. Instead, they are highly individual creatures with a strong sense of autonomy. This individualism makes them less amenable to extensive and complex training. While cats are remarkably skilled at training humans to cater to their needs, the reverse is much more challenging.

One of the primary reasons for this trainability gap lies in the innate nature of cats. Unlike dogs, who have been selected for thousands of years to work alongside humans, cats have not been subjected to the same level of selective breeding for specific behaviors. This lack of selective breeding means that cats retain a considerable degree of independence and a natural aversion to tasks that do not align with their instincts or perceived benefits.

Protective Behaviors in Cats

While cats are not typically trained to protect property or people, there are instances where they demonstrate protective tendencies. For example, a viral video on CCTV shows a cat saving a young child from a much larger and more aggressive dog. Similarly, there are numerous accounts of cats defending their human companions, including the instance of a wannabe rapist being comprehensively injured by a cat. These behaviors are not the result of training but rather the natural protective instincts of cats.

However, it is crucial to understand that these protective behaviors are not inherent in all cats. The concept of a cat protecting property, while admirable, is somewhat unrealistic. Cats do not possess a strong concept of property rights, and they may not view burglars as wrongdoers. This is evident in their lack of aggressive responses to burglars or in the stealing of items.

Cats and Human Co-Evolution

The idea of co-evolution between cats and humans is an interesting perspective. Over generations, cats have adapted to live in close proximity to humans, and this adaptation has been beneficial for both species. Farmers who kept cats benefited from the reduction in rodent populations, which in turn protected their crops. Similarly, cats that did not disrupt human households were more likely to survive harsh winters, leading to a survival advantage.

The co-evolutionary relationship between humans and cats is evident in the cultural significance of cats in ancient societies, particularly in ancient Egypt. However, modern cats have largely slipped off that godlike perch, and their primary relationship with humans is one of mutual convenience and companionship.

Why Cats Appoint Themselves as Guardians

Another intriguing aspect of cat behavior is their tendency to appoint themselves as guardians, especially of human infants. This behavior is often unexplained but can be partially attributed to the cat's natural affection and protective instincts. Unlike trained behavior, this guardianship is driven by the cat's emotional attachment to the child rather than any tangible benefit.

These cats often remain by the infant's side despite the discomfort or danger involved, such as having their hair and tails pulled. They do not jump out of reach or leave the room because their love for the infant outweighs these natural responses. This behavior underscores the complex emotional bond between cats and humans, far beyond simple trainability or property protection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ability to train cats for tricks or protect property is more nuanced than the simple act of domestication suggests. Cats are highly individual and not easily manipulated into complex behaviors. However, their natural protective instincts and emotional bonds with humans make them valuable companions, even if we cannot train them to perform specific tasks. Understanding this can lead to more realistic expectations of these charming and independent creatures.