New research suggests cats can distinguish when their owners speak to them in a high-pitched, affectionate tone—often called “baby talk”—but largely tune out the same voice patterns from strangers.
A team of French researchers conducted a study involving 16 cats to analyze their responses to different vocal tones. The findings, published in Animal Cognition, reveal that cats show heightened attention when their owners use “cat-directed speech” (CDS), a style similar to how humans speak to infants.
How the Study Worked
Owners were recorded saying phrases like “Do you want a treat?” and “Do you want to play?” in two ways:
Cat-directed speech (CDS): Higher-pitched, exaggerated tone (i.e., “baby talk”).
Adult-directed speech: Normal tone used with other humans.
Additionally, 16 unfamiliar women were recorded saying the cats’ names to compare reactions. The tests took place in the cats’ homes to minimize stress, with owners present but not interacting. Researchers analyzed behavioral responses—such as ear movements, pupil dilation, and body language—using video recordings and specialized software.
Key Findings
Owners’ Voices Trigger Recognition:
When a stranger called their name, most cats ignored it—but 10 out of 16 perked up upon hearing their owner’s voice.
In a second test, cats responded more strongly to their owner’s CDS than their normal speech.
Strangers’ “Baby Talk” Falls Flat:
When unfamiliar voices used CDS, 11 of 16 cats showed little reaction, suggesting they selectively respond to their owner’s tone.
Why It Matters
Lead author Charlotte de Mouzon told Gizmodo that the study challenges the stereotype of cats as aloof creatures. “This is further evidence of attachment between cats and humans,” she said. “For decades, we’ve assumed cats only care about food and shelter—but they do notice how we communicate with them.”
Limitations
All participating cats were indoor pets, potentially skewing results since they’re less exposed to strangers. Further research could explore outdoor cats’ reactions.
Tips for Cat Owners
If your cat ignores your affectionate chatter, experts recommend:
Using consistent, positive reinforcement.
Pairing speech with treats or playtime.
Respecting their boundaries—some cats prefer quiet interaction.
The study adds to growing evidence that cats form nuanced bonds with their humans—even if they sometimes pretend not to listen.
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