1. Differences in the social structure of dogs and cats
Dog social sex:Dogs are social animals whose ancestors were wolves and are highly social. In the dog's family structure, there is a concept of leader and subordinate, and pet dogs will see the owner as a leader, establishing a strong sense of group identity.
Cat Independence:In contrast, cats are relatively independent animals. Wild cats are more likely to live alone and do not have a strict group structure, so cats do not have as strong a concept of leadership as dogs.
Second, the domestication history of dogs and cats is different
History of Dog Domestication:Dogs are believed to be one of the first animals to be domesticated by humans, and a deep intimacy with humans was established during the domestication process. Through selection and training, humans make it easier for dogs to establish emotional connections with humans and form a master-slave relationship.
Independent domestication of cats:In contrast, the domestication process of cats is relatively late and occurs spontaneously. Wild cats are more independent and less dependent on humans, so they do not have the same strong master-slave relationship as dogs in the domestication process.
3. Dogs' unique social needs
Dog sociability:Dogs have a natural need for socialization and enjoy interacting with humans and other dogs. Dogs are able to develop a deeper emotional connection with their owners through expressions, body language, and voices.
Cat autonomy:Cats are relatively more independent, unlike dogs, which are strongly dependent on their owners, cats are better at solitude, and the way they express their emotions is relatively independent and low-key.
Fourth, there are different ways to express emotions
The owner of the dog follows:Dogs usually follow their owners, showing loyalty and strong dependence on their owners, and this behavior is also their emulation of their leaders in the group.
Independent expression of cats:In contrast, cats tend to express their feelings for their owners in independent ways, such as lying down next to their owners, rubbing, purring, etc., and these behaviors emphasize the autonomy of cats.
5. Individual differences and environmental factors
Individual differences:There are differences between different individual dogs and cats, with some cats likely to behave more closely, while others may be relatively independent. Individual differences and breed differences also affect the emotional expression of pets to their owners to a certain extent.
Environmental factors:The environment in which the pet grows up, the way it educates and nurtures the owner will also affect the degree of identification of the pet with the owner.
Summary:The degree to which dogs and cats identify with their owners is influenced by their innate sociability, domestication history, individual differences, and environmental factors. While cats do not exhibit as much ownership dependence as dogs, many cats are also able to develop a deep emotional connection with their owners, albeit in a more independent and low-key manner.