MCCOMB_Scientific_Reports_Nature_Research_Sept_2020.pdf (962.68 kB)
The role of cat eye narrowing movements in cat–human communication
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-09, 22:12 authored by Tasmin Humphrey, Leanne Proops, Jemma FormanJemma Forman, Rebecca Spooner, Karen MccombDomestic animals are sensitive to human cues that facilitate inter-specific communication, including cues to emotional state. The eyes are important in signalling emotions, with the act of narrowing the eyes appearing to be associated with positive emotional communication in a range of species. This study examines the communicatory significance of a widely reported cat behaviour that involves eye narrowing, referred to as the slow blink sequence. Slow blink sequences typically involve a series of half-blinks followed by either a prolonged eye narrow or an eye closure. Our first experiment revealed that cat half-blinks and eye narrowing occurred more frequently in response to owners’ slow blink stimuli towards their cats (compared to no owner–cat interaction). In a second experiment, this time where an experimenter provided the slow blink stimulus, cats had a higher propensity to approach the experimenter after a slow blink interaction than when they had adopted a neutral expression. Collectively, our results suggest that slow blink sequences may function as a form of positive emotional communication between cats and humans.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Scientific ReportsISSN
2045-2322Publisher
Nature ResearchExternal DOI
Issue
1Volume
10Page range
1-8Article number
a16503Event location
EnglandDepartment affiliated with
- Psychology Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2020-11-19First Open Access (FOA) Date
2020-11-19First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2020-11-18Usage metrics
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