When you hear “go fetch,” the first animal that comes to mind is likely a dog. However, a new study shows that cats may also have a penchant for this playful behavior. Researchers from Purdue University and the University of Pennsylvania found that 41% of cats engage in fetching, a figure that may surprise many cat owners, though still below the 78% of dogs that exhibit the same behavior.
Mikel Delgado, senior research scientist at Purdue and leader of the study, noted that while it has been known for some time that certain cats enjoy playing fetch, the sheer number of felines participating in this behavior stood out.
“Given that cats often have a reputation for being aloof and independent, it was exciting to see that so many cats interact with their humans in this way,” Delgado shared with CBS News via email. “This adds to the growing understanding that cats have complex social interactions with their human companions, including this specific form of play.”
Exploring Fetching Behavior in Cats and Dogs
Delgado, along with colleagues Judith Stella and Candace Croney from Purdue and James Serpell from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine, conducted a survey of 8,224 cat owners and 73,724 dog owners. Their aim was not only to identify how many cats and dogs fetch but also to explore what traits might influence their tendency to retrieve toys. The survey included questions about the pets’ behavior, sociability, and individual characteristics.
The study revealed several factors influencing whether a cat or dog engages in fetching, including the animal’s sex, breed, living environment, and health. Younger male pets, those in good health, and animals living in households without other dogs were more likely to fetch.
Breed also played a significant role. Among dogs, breeds traditionally associated with hunting, such as border collies, golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and German shepherds, were more prone to fetching.
For cats, the study found that those with roots in the Eastern Hemisphere, like Abyssinians, Bengals, Siamese, and Siberians, were more likely to engage in fetch compared to domestic longhairs.
Why Do Cats and Dogs Fetch?
Fetching appears to be tied to an animal’s predatory behavior. According to Delgado, retrieving their prey is a natural extension of hunting instincts.
“The actions involved in fetching — chasing, pursuing, and capturing — mimic many elements of hunting,” Delgado explained.
While dogs have been selectively bred to assist humans in hunting, retrieving prey without killing it, cats do not share this history. However, Delgado noted that when cats hunt independently, they often carry their prey to a safer location before eating, which may contribute to their tendency to fetch.
Another factor may be linked to the animal’s sociability. Delgado and her team hypothesize that breeds more inclined to fetch may also be more interested in interacting with humans. “Siamese cats, for example, are known for their strong interest in people,” Delgado added.
Training Your Cat to Fetch
Some cats take up fetching spontaneously, without any formal training from their owners. Delgado, a cat owner herself, said her three kittens began fetching on their own. “It was a delightful surprise,” she shared. “It’s very cute.”
While some cats naturally display this behavior, others can be trained. Delgado mentioned that fetching involves several complex actions: chasing, picking up, and returning the toy, making it a more advanced trick than, say, sitting or giving a high five.
However, cat owners looking to train their pets to fetch can start small, using positive reinforcement and treats to encourage the behavior. Delgado recommended the online resource Cat School, which offers training tutorials for various feline behaviors.
The study’s findings shed new light on the social and playful capabilities of cats, challenging the stereotype of the aloof feline and opening up new possibilities for bonding with our whiskered companions.
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