Cats are curious creatures. On one hand they can seem incredibly intelligent but on the other, they obviously don’t have the same level of mental comprehension as humans do. But just how smart are they and does that extend to recognizing their own reflection?
On the one hand the answer is quite simple but on the other, it can be a little more complex. How cats interact with mirrors can give us some intriguing insights into how they sense the world around them.
How Do Cats Perceive Mirrors?
It is commonly understood that cats cannot recognize their own reflection. For humans, this is a cognitive milestone we reach around 18 to 24 months of age. It requires self-awareness and this isn’t a trait that many animals have.
It’s said that when cats look in the mirror, they are most likely to interpret it as another cat. However, while some cats will freak out at seeing themselves in a mirror, others won’t react at all or may be curious.
Exactly why this happens isn’t fully understood. Cats rely heavily on their sense of hearing as well as their sense of smell to identify everything. The lack of smell and noise can be a puzzling experience and if they are often in the presence of a mirror, they can learn that the image is something that isn’t a threat and can be ignored.
The Mirror Test and Self-Awareness
There is a common test that is completed on animals to check for self-recognition. They have a mark placed on their body somewhere that can only be seen using a mirror. If they then use the mirror to see and interact with the mark, then it is seen as evidence of self-recognition.
Not many animals have passed this test, but some that have are elephants, apes, and dolphins. However, size isn’t a key factor as ants have also passed this test. It shows a level of cognition that most don’t possess.
However, cats have consistently failed the mirror test. Their reactions show that cats often perceive the image as either a rival cat or an unthreatening companion. Their lack of reaction may be down to their use of other senses.
Why Don’t Cats Recognize Themselves?
It’s a fascinating question as we’ve always tried to work out what goes through the mind of a cat. The lack of recognition is often put down to their reliance on scent and sound. They may think that if the cat in the mirrored image doesn’t smell or sound like them, how can it be them?
Even though cats have decent eyesight, it’s only one of the tools they use to identify things. Humans identify objects and people almost exclusively with our eyes. A mirror provides a cat with only a visual clue. To them it’s like only having one piece of a jigsaw.
Humans are social animals, but cats are solitary animals. Their need for social cognition is much lower than ours. It’s interesting that ants passed the mirror check, as their need for social cognition is extremely high given how colonies work.
How Do Cats React to Their Reflection?
This is what makes the question interesting as some cats can seem like they recognize their own reflection. It’s said that cats will think they are looking at another cat when they see a mirror, but many don’t act that way.
A lot of them will act curious, as if they are either trying to find another cat or are simply confused by its appearance. Others may simply be indifferent to it, meaning they have no reaction to the image and seemingly have no interest in it.
Some cats, however, clearly do think it’s a rival. They can act aggressively and start to hiss, growl or swipe at the image. This is the worst reaction as it puts your cat under stress and anxiety, and in a heightened state of awareness.
Do Cats Learn to Ignore Mirrors?
It may take time, but yes. Cats have excellent memory and will learn from their interactions with the mirror. Even if they first thought it was a rival, they will learn over time that the image has never actually posed a genuine threat to them.
The cats will recognize the lack of scent or movement from the “other” cat and deem it irrelevant. Cats don’t have self-recognition, but they do have an excellent ability to learn and adjust to new situations.
Are Cats Completely Lacking in Self-Awareness?
Cats may not have self-recognition when it comes to looking into the mirror, but they do have self-awareness. They are far from mindless creatures that go about their day without much brain activity.
There are many ways this is proven, such as grooming themselves. They will focus on specific areas that need attention and can check almost every part of their body. They are also able to problem solve spatially. If in a tight spot, they can manipulate the shape of their bodies, showing a clear understanding of their physical presence.
Cats have also shown a high level of emotional awareness. This includes being able to detect when a person is upset, content, or happy. It’s proof that despite their lack of self-recognition, cats still have high social and emotional intelligence.
How Does This Knowledge Impact Cat Owners?
Understanding how cats perceive mirrors can give owners a better understanding about how to provide a more comfortable space to keep your cat happy and healthy. The first thing to do is to observe them and their behavior with a mirror if it’s new.
If they are acting aggressive or fearful, then you should gradually introduce the mirror. It’s best to remove it or cover it temporarily to give them emotional respite. You can then reintroduce it more and more until you cat acclimatizes.
However, mirrors can be used as a source of enrichment. If your cat enjoys playing with the mirror and seems happy with its presence, a mirror can stimulate curiosity and give them an added source of enrichment.
