How smart is your feline overlord? A deep dive into a cat's IQ and EQ: Home testing x A complete guide to brain training.

Chapter 1: Debunking Myths: The Truth Behind the Ranking of "Smartest Cats"

For cat owners, their "master" is undoubtedly the most unique person in the world. However, discussions about "ranking cats by intelligence" always spark widespread curiosity. Before delving into the mysteries of feline intelligence, we first need to examine these widely circulated lists and deconstruct their meanings from a scientific perspective.

1.1 The widely circulated "Cat Intelligence Ranking": A Comprehensive Observation

The internet is flooded with rankings of the "smartest cats." These lists are usually based on common breed characteristics, such as their sociability, curiosity, and ability to learn new skills (or train their owners). One source from Hong Kong even compares a cat's intelligence to human academic qualifications, listing tabby and Sphynx cats as "doctoral students," Siamese and Bengal cats as "graduate students," and British Shorthairs and Persians as "elementary school students."

While these rankings are entertaining, they rely primarily on anecdotal evidence and subjective observation rather than standardized scientific tests. However, when combined with data from multiple sources, certain varieties do consistently rank highly due to their unique interactive and cognitive characteristics.

1.2 Expert Opinion: Why is there no "Stanley Curron of the cat world" in the scientific community?

This ranking list raises a core question: Does the scientific community endorse these rankings? The answer is no.

First, we must clarify the concept of "IQ" (Intelligence Quotient). IQ is a standardized system designed specifically to measure human cognitive abilities, encompassing areas such as language, logic, and spatial reasoning. It cannot and should not be directly applied to non-human animals.

Many people will think of the renowned canine psychologist Professor Stanley Coren and his groundbreaking book, *The Intelligence of Dogs*. Coren's ranking is valid because he focused on a very specific measurement: "Working and Obedience Intelligence," which is a dog's ability to learn and execute human commands.

The evolutionary trajectory of cats is quite different from that of dogs. Dogs, through tens of thousands of years of domestication, have been bred into working partners for humans, their intelligence manifested in their high degree of cooperation with humans. In contrast, the domestication of cats is more of a symbiotic relationship; they were attracted to human barns (and their attracted mice) and still retain a high degree of independence.

Cats are by nature "solitary hunters." Their intelligence is for adapting to their environment and solving survival problems (such as how to open an oven to steal food), not for "obeying" or "pleasing" humans.

Therefore, using "obedience" to measure a cat's intelligence goes against their species' nature from the very beginning. This is why the scientific community does not (and should not) have a universally accepted "cat IQ ranking".

In animal behavior, we do not study "IQ," but rather "cognition"—a more scientific term that refers to the entire psychological process by which animals acquire, process, make decisions, and act.

1.3 Reinterpreting: The Survival Intelligence Behind "Indifference and Independence"

For a long time, cats have been stereotyped as "aloof," "independent," and even "untrainable." However, from the perspective of cognitive science, these misunderstood behaviors are precisely a manifestation of their remarkable intelligence.

Cats play a unique "dual role" in the food chain: they are both efficient "predators" and "prey" for small and medium-sized animals (such as snakes or birds of prey).

• As a "predator": A cat's senses must be highly coordinated and focused at all times, ready to detect, track and capture prey.
• As "prey": They must be cautious about any movement in the environment to ensure their own safety.

Therefore, when your cat "ignores" your calls, it's not necessarily "indifferent," but rather it may be in a highly cognitive state of "focus" or "vigilance." This seemingly "independent" behavior is a top-level survival intelligence that they have evolved over millions of years.

Furthermore, cats are by no means solitary animals. They possess a flexible social structure and develop deep emotional bonds with their own kind and humans through complex social behaviors such as rubbing and mutual grooming.

1.4 In-depth analysis: The intelligence characteristics of popular "smart" breeds

Having understood the diversity of feline intelligence, let's analyze why certain breeds frequently appear on the "intelligent" list. Their "intelligence" manifests in distinctly different dimensions:

Abyssinian cat: Inquisitive intelligence

• Characteristics: Extremely active, bursting with curiosity, and loves climbing.
• Intelligence Manifestations: They are "quick learners." The Abyssinian cat's intelligence is manifested in its strong need for mentally stimulating activities. They love puzzle toys, skill training, and can even be trained to complete a "feline agility course." Their intelligence lies in "learning" and "exploration."

Siamese cats: Social intelligence

• Characteristics: Extremely "chatty" (vocalizing), highly social, and requires a lot of companionship.
• Intelligence Manifestations: Siamese cats are widely considered "dog-like." Their intelligence is manifested in their exceptional willingness to communicate and their trainability. They actively use vocalizations to communicate with humans and can be taught to play fetch, walk on a leash, and quickly learn various tricks. Their intelligence lies in communication and interaction.

Bengal cat: Problem-solving intelligence

• Characteristics: A hybrid of wild Asian leopard cats, with exceptional athletic abilities and even known for its love of playing in water.
• Intelligent Manifestations: Bengal cats possess keen "sharp instincts." They are natural "problem solvers." Their nimble paws are almost like hands, and many owners report that they can learn to turn lights on and off, open cabinets, flush toilets, and even catch fish from aquariums. They are highly trainable and can also learn to fetch and walk on a leash. Their intelligence lies in their "observation" and "problem-solving" abilities.

Chapter Two: Testing Cat Intelligence (IQ) at Home: Is Your Cat a Problem Solver?

Since there is no standardized "cat IQ test", how can we assess a cat's cognitive abilities? Animal cognitive scientists design some simple experiments to test specific cognitive skills in cats, especially "object permanence" and "working memory".

"Object permanence" is a major milestone in cognitive development, meaning that when an object disappears from sight, it does not vanish into thin air, but still exists somewhere. This ability in cats is often compared to that of human toddlers aged 18 months to 2 years.

Here are a few simple cognitive tests that cat owners can do at home:

2.1 Practical Test (I): Object Permanence (The "Cup" Test)

Concept: To test whether a cat understands that something that has been hidden still exists.

Materials: The cat's favorite treat (it must be something it can't resist), an opaque cup or small box (so the cat can't see through it).

step:

1. Sit down next to your cat on the floor, making sure it is fully focused.
2. Place the snacks on the floor in front of it while it is watching.
3. Next, slowly cover the snacks with an opaque cup (upside down) or a small box.
4. Remove your hand, step back, and observe the cat's reaction.

Results analysis:

• Genius Level (A+): Without hesitation, the cat immediately steps forward and accurately pushes or flips the cup with its paw or nose to obtain the treat.
• Upper-middle level (B): The cat observes for a while, sniffing around the cup. After a brief moment of thought, it starts to paw at the cup and eventually gets the treat.
• Naturally Dumb (C): The cat looks at you in confusion, then at the cup, as if the treat has "disappeared forever," then loses interest and turns away.

2.2 Practical Test (II): Working Memory (The "Memory" Test)

Concept: This is an advanced version of Test (1). It doesn't measure whether the cat knows the treat is still there, but rather how long it can remember the specific message that "the treat is under the cup".

step:

1. Repeat steps 1 to 3 of test (I) (cover the treat with a cup in front of the cat).
2. When the cat is about to touch the cup, gently hold it with your hand or attract its attention to prevent it from acting immediately.
3. Hold for 5 seconds before releasing.
4. Observe whether it remembers the snack under the cup and goes to look for it.
5. If successful, gradually increase the difficulty: extend the waiting time to 15 seconds, 30 seconds, or even 1 minute.

Results analysis: The longer a cat can remember the hidden object, the stronger its working memory. Studies show that cats possess excellent long-term memory, capable of retaining information for up to ten years.

2.3 Practical Test (III): Logical Reasoning and Prediction (The "Mechanical Mouse" Test)

Concept: This test assesses whether cats can understand the continuous movement of objects and predict their future locations. This ability is comparable to the intellectual level of a human child of about two years old.

Materials: A mechanical mouse (or a rolling ball), a large piece of furniture (such as a sofa or refrigerator).

step:

1. In a relatively open area, activate a mechanical mouse (or a rolling ball) and let it move on the ground to attract the cat's attention.
2. Manipulate the mouse (or push the ball) so that it rolls into the furniture (such as a sofa) from one side (point A) and disappears from sight.
3. Observe the cat's reaction carefully.

Results analysis:

• A sign of high intelligence: A cat won't waste its paws digging at point A where the mouse "disappears." It will understand that the mouse is in "continuous movement," so it will immediately run to the "other side" of the furniture (point B), lie in wait at the expected exit, and wait for the prey to reappear.
• Typical behavior: The cat stops at point A where the mouse disappeared and tries to reach under the sofa with its paws to search for it.

2.4 Practical Test (IV): Problem Solving Ability (The "Puzzle" Test)

Concept: To test whether a cat will actively try to solve a problem when faced with a new and challenging task.

Materials: An empty egg carton, snacks.

step:

1. While the cat is watching, place the treat into one of the slots in the egg carton.
2. Gently close the lid of the egg carton (Note: Do not tighten it; make sure the cat can open it easily).
3. Place the egg carton in front of the cat and observe its reaction.

Results analysis: Observe whether the cat will give up or try to use its paws, nose, or teeth to find a way to open the lid and get the reward.

Failing a test doesn't mean you're "stupid": Motivation vs. Cognition

When conducting the above tests, cat owners must pay attention to a key point: a cat's "test failure" is not the same as "cognitive failure," but is more likely a "motivational failure."

Cats are highly opportunistic animals. If it shows little interest in the treats you offer, or simply finds the game boring, it might choose to "refuse to participate." This doesn't mean it's "stupid"; rather, it might indicate that its intelligence manifests elsewhere—for example, it knows that instead of struggling to open the cup, meowing at you will get you to open the can.

From one perspective, a cat that knows how to "manipulate" humans to serve it might be the smartest.

Chapter 3: In-depth understanding of feline emotional intelligence (EQ): Does it truly understand you, and do you understand it?

When we talk about "emotional intelligence" (EQ), we usually refer to a human's ability to understand, manage, and express their own emotions, as well as to perceive the emotions of others. So, do cats have "EQ"?

3.1 Redefining Cat EQ: Why is there no "EQ test" for cats?

First, it must be clarified that the scientific community currently does not have a standardized tool like the Emotional Intelligence Test (EI Test) or Empathy Quotient (EQ) for humans to quantify a cat's emotional intelligence.

Therefore, instead of pursuing a fictitious "EQ score," cat owners should shift their real need to understanding two more crucial questions:

• How do cats sense and understand our emotions?
• How do cats express their emotions?

3.2 Cats are “mind readers”: How do they sense human emotions?

Many cat owners intuitively believe that their cats can sense their sadness or joy. Scientific research confirms that this intuition is correct. Cats have a much higher emotional intelligence than we imagine; they integrate multiple sensory cues to "read" their owners' emotional states.

Visual + Auditory (Cross-sensory recognition)

Cats can not only understand sounds or read facial expressions, but they can also match these two "cross-sensory".

A pivotal study published in 2020 found that cats can integrate human visual and auditory signals to recognize their owners' emotions. In the experiment, researchers simultaneously played human sounds of "happiness" or "anger" and showed photos of "happy" and "angry" faces.

The results showed that cats clearly associate sounds with corresponding facial expressions: when they hear an "angry" human voice, they spend more time looking at photos of "angry" human faces; and vice versa. This finding is extremely important because it demonstrates that cats have established a universal "mental representation" in their brains for the two complex human emotions of "happiness" and "anger."

Sense of smell (the scent of emotions)

Cats have an extremely sensitive sense of smell, and their world is largely composed of scents. Research indicates that cats can even detect their owners' emotions, especially "fear," through subtle changes in human body odor (such as chemical signals in sweat). When their owners are fearful, cats may exhibit more alert behavior. Interestingly, the study found that cats did not react significantly to "happy" scents, which may mean that cats need clearer visual and auditory cues (such as smiles and gentle tones) to confirm positive emotions.

Behavioral feedback (smiling vs. frowning)

Cats not only "read" us, but they also "adjust" their behavior based on the information they read.

A 2015 study revealed that cats' social behavior changes significantly based on their owners' facial expressions:

• When the owner smiles: Cats are more likely to approach their owner and exhibit positive affectionate behaviors, such as purring and rubbing against them .
• When their owners frown: Cats react quite differently; they tend to avoid their owners or reduce interaction.

3.3 The "Love Language" of Cats: Deciphering Their Emotional Expressions

Cats also have a complex and subtle system for expressing their trust, affection, and sense of security. Understanding these "love languages" is key for cat owners to improve their relationship with their pets.

1. Slow blinking
   In feline body language, a slow blink is the ultimate signal of trust and affection. When a cat blinks slowly at you, it's equivalent to a "cat kiss" or "I love you." It shows that it feels completely relaxed around you and doesn't need to be constantly on guard. Cat owners can try blinking back at their cats to respond to their affection in the same way.

2. Rubbing and scent exchange
   A cat's cheeks, chin, forehead, and the base of its tail are covered with "scent glands." When a cat rubs these areas against your feet, arms, or face, it's not just being affectionate; it's also performing an important form of "scent marking." It leaves its unique scent on you, while also acquiring your scent. This is an intimate act of possession, intended to declare, "You are part of my family."

3. Kneading / "Making Biscuits"
   "Kneeling" (or "patting") is one of the most heartwarming behaviors in cats. This rhythmic pressing motion with their front paws originates from their kittenhood. Kittens use this motion to press against their mother's breasts to stimulate milk production. When an adult cat "pats" on your lap or a soft blanket, it means it is extremely relaxed, comfortable, and safe, and sees you as someone it trusts and relies on like a mother.

4. Purring and Imitating Kitten Behavior <br>Purring is one of the most direct expressions of a cat's emotions. While cats may purr when in extreme pain or stress (as a form of self-soothing), a sustained, relaxed purring during interactions with their owners is a clear signal of contentment and happiness.

A two-way bridge of human-cat affection

A cat's "emotional intelligence" isn't a one-way score, but rather the quality of the "two-way emotional connection" established between humans and cats. Research even suggests that the presence and behavior of cats help "alleviate negative moods in humans." Cats will respond to their owners' low moods (such as depression) by increasing interaction, such as meowing more frequently and rubbing against them. This indicates that cats are not only passively perceiving emotions, but also actively participating in and responding to this emotional relationship.

Chapter 4: Comprehensive Feline Brain Activation Techniques: Making Your Cat Smarter and Happier

A cat's intelligence (cognitive ability) is not fixed at birth. Just as muscles can become stronger through exercise, a cat's brain also possesses "neuroplasticity." This means that their brain structure and function can be reorganized based on postnatal experiences and stimuli.

Providing cats with a wealth of "brain-stimulating" activities through scientific methods can not only stimulate their potential but also effectively prevent behavioral problems caused by boredom (such as destructive behavior or aggressive behavior) and slow down the cognitive decline of older cats.

This chapter will provide four core strategies to build a "cat cognition pyramid".

4.1 Core Strategy (I): The Brain's "Operating System"—Basic Health Management

Many cat owners are eager to buy expensive educational toys or try advanced training techniques, but they neglect the most fundamental basis. If a cat's "brain operating system" is unstable, any higher-level "applications" (such as training) will not function effectively.

4.1.1 The Critical Window of Socialization

A cat's cognitive development begins from the first day of its life. Among these developments, the "Socialization Period" forms the foundation for its lifelong cognitive abilities.

• Critical period: The golden period for a kitten's socialization is very early and very short, mainly concentrated between 2 and 7 weeks after birth .
• Why it's important: During this period, a kitten's brain is most receptive to new things, including humans, other animals, different sounds, smells, and environments.
• Impact on intelligence: A study clearly demonstrates that cats that are well socialized during their prime (i.e., have positive interactions with humans) are more willing to take initiative when faced with novel "problem-solving tasks" (such as puzzle toys) in adulthood, and they solve problems faster and with a higher success rate .

4.1.2 Stress Management (The "Intelligence Killer")

Chronic stress is the number one killer of cognitive development in cats. For cats, sensitive creatures that are both predators and prey, being in an unsafe, threatening, or boring environment for a long time can have a disastrous impact on their behavior and learning abilities.

Sources of stress may include: insufficient or improperly placed home resources (food bowls, water bowls, litter boxes), being bullied by other pets, constant loud noise in the environment, and (most deadly for intelligent cats) extreme boredom.

When cats are under chronic stress, their behavior undergoes significant negative changes:

Normal behavior is suppressed (decreases):

• Play time has decreased significantly.
• Exploratory behavior has decreased.
• Affiliative behaviors, such as dawdling, decrease.

Increases in abnormal behavior:

• The hiding time has increased.
• Stay vigilant at all times.
• Increased aggressive behavior.
• Urine spraying, etc.

When a cat's cognitive resources are entirely used for "coping with threats" and "ensuring survival," it has no extra mental energy left for "learning" and "solving problems."

4.1.3 Sleep Quality (The Brain's Housekeeper)

Cats need 12 to 18 hours of sleep a day, and this is by no means laziness. As hunters, their "hunting-eating-grooming-sleeping" cycle is to conserve the enormous energy needed for the next hunt.

Cats are not true nocturnal animals, but rather "crepuscular" animals, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk.

Sleep quality is directly related to brain health. Sleep cycle disorders (such as excessive daytime sleepiness, abnormal nighttime activity, and unexplained howling) are among the key early symptoms of Feline Cognitive Dysfunction (CDS). Ensuring a safe and undisturbed sleep environment for your cat is essential for maintaining normal brain function.

4.2 Core Strategy (II): Environmental Enrichment

After stabilizing the "operating system," we need to "install software" for the cat's brain. Environmental enrichment is the most effective way to satisfy a cat's "predator" instincts and provide continuous mental stimulation. For cats living indoors (especially in the relatively small living spaces of Hong Kong), this is not a luxury, but a necessity.

1. Creating a "Vertical World"
   Cats are natural climbers. From a high vantage point, they can survey their territory, which gives them a great sense of security. In Hong Kong homes, installing sturdy cat climbing platforms, wall shelves, or window hammocks is the most effective way to utilize vertical space.

2. Provides "hideaways"
   As prey, cats need safe, secluded places to hide and rest. This effectively reduces their stress levels. A simple cardboard box or a cat tunnel can provide an excellent hiding place.

3. Simulated Hunting and Puzzle Feeders
   Cats are naturally inclined to "work hard for their food." Pouring food directly into their bowls deprives them of one of the most important brain activities of the day. DIY Puzzle Feeders :

   • "Digging" Reach Feeder: Prepare a shoebox (with a lid) and several toilet paper rolls. Cut holes in the shoebox lid that match the diameter of the toilet paper rolls, and insert the rolls vertically into the holes. Scatter dry food into the toilet paper rolls. The cat will have to use its brain and paws to "scoop" the food out of the deep rolls.
   • "Rolling" Slow Feeder: Prepare a toilet paper roll (or kitchen paper towel roll). Cut several appropriately sized holes in the side of the roll with scissors or a blade (enough for the food to fall out). Place the food into the roll and fold the ends over or stuff them with crumpled paper. The cat must learn to roll the roll so that the food falls out of the holes.
   • The "Pizza Box Puzzle": Randomly cut several holes in an empty pizza box (or any flat cardboard box), put treats or toys inside, and close the lid. The cat will explore and retrieve items through the holes.

4.3 Core Strategy (III): Active Brain Training

Enriching the environment provides "passive" stimulation, while "active training" is a high-intensity, high-efficiency "brain teaser".

The Gold Standard: Clicker Training

The idea that "cats cannot be trained" is a complete myth. In fact, cats have an extremely high learning ability, but they need a communication method that aligns with their natural instincts. Clicker training is that key.

This is a scientific method of "positive reinforcement." The clicker itself has no meaning; it is a "marker" or "bridge." Its function is to make a "click" sound at the "precise moment" when the cat performs the correct behavior, and then immediately give a reward (treat).

The "click" sound precisely tells the cat, " This action you 're doing has earned you a reward!"

Advanced training instruction:

• Teach "Sit".

  1. Use the "Luring" method.
  2. Hold a treat in front of the cat's nose.
  3. Slowly raise the hand holding the snack above its head and move it towards its tail.
  4. To keep their eyes on the treat, the cat will lift its head and naturally place its rump on the ground.
  5. Click at the precise moment its rump hits the ground!
  6. Reward ! (Give it a snack)
  7. Repeat the practice.

• Teach "High-Five"

  1. First, position the cat in a "sit" position so that its front paws are free.
  2. Place a high-value snack (such as minced meat) in your palm and press it with your fingers.
  3. Extend your palm in front of the cat (slightly above its head).
  4. A cat's instinctive reaction is that when it can smell food but can't reach it, it will try to use its paws to push your hand away to get the food.
  5. Click at the precise moment its claws touch your palm!
  6. Reward ! (Release your finger to let it eat the treat)
  7. Repeat the exercise until it steadily pats your palm with its paw.
  8. Finally, remove the treat, extend only your palm and say the command "high five," then click after it touches your hand and give the reward from your other hand.

4.4 Core Strategy (IV): Cognitive Nutrition

At the top of the pyramid is "brain nutrition." Diet is the material basis for brain function, development, and maintenance. Recent studies have confirmed that specific combinations of nutrients can significantly improve cognitive function in middle-aged and older cats.

Key Nutrients (Part 1): Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA & EPA)

• Mechanism: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an important component of the cerebral cortex and nerve cells. Both DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are powerful natural anti-inflammatory agents that help regulate the body's inflammatory response, including that of the cerebral cortex.
• For kittens: DHA is essential for the developing brain, enhancing learning ability and reaction speed.
• For adult/senior cats: DHA and EPA help slow brain aging, maintain cognitive function, and combat age-related memory decline or slowed reaction time.
• Source: Deep-sea fish oil is the most direct and efficient source of DHA and EPA.

Key Nutrient (II): Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)

• Mechanism: This is a special nutritional strategy for the "aged brain." A cat's brain primarily uses glucose as fuel. However, as cats age, the brain's efficiency in utilizing glucose decreases significantly, leading to energy shortages, which is one of the causes of cognitive dysfunction (CDS).
• Alternative fuels: MCTs (from sources such as coconut oil) can be rapidly converted into ketones by the liver. Studies have found that while the aging brain is not as good at utilizing glucose, it can still efficiently utilize ketones as an alternative energy source.
• Benefits: Many veterinary prescription diets for feline cognitive impairment include MCTs, which provide crucial alternative fuel for the aging brain.

Other brain-boosting nutrients, such as antioxidants (e.g., vitamins E and C), B vitamins, and arginine, are all proven to be beneficial in supporting brain function and slowing down aging in a synergistic nutritional combination.

Chapter 5: Conclusion: Redefining the "Intelligent Cat"

Through the in-depth analysis in this report, we must abandon the narrow view of measuring cats using a single, linear "IQ ranking." Scientific research tells us that a cat's intelligence is reflected in its exceptional ability "to succeed as a cat."

Cats' "intelligence" is multifaceted and multidimensional.

• It might be the "kinesthetic intelligence" of an Abyssinian cat, which quickly masters agility courses.
• It may possess the kind of intelligence found in Siamese cats, which develop complex vocalizations and insist on engaging in "social communication" with humans.
• It might be the kind of "problem-solving intelligence" that Bengal cats possess, precisely calculating and opening cupboards to steal food.
• It could also be your tabby cat, with its "adaptive intelligence"—the ability to read your expressions and know exactly when to rub its head against you in exchange for treats.

5.1 Final Advice for Readers of www.petsthing.com.hk

Instead of obsessing over your cat's "IQ ranking," focus on how to become a better "guide" and "partner."

A "smart" cat is first and foremost a healthy, happy cat that is free from chronic stress.

Through the "Comprehensive Brain Activation Techniques" provided in Chapter Four—from key socialization in kittenhood and providing a rich environment with plenty of "vertical space" and "hiding places," to using "brain-boosting feeders," supplementing with scientifically formulated "brain-boosting nutrients" (such as Omega-3 and MCTs), and spending 10 minutes a day on fun "clicker training"—every cat owner can unleash their cat's full potential.

Ultimately, what we seek is not a cat that can "jump around," but a soulmate with whom we can have deep emotional exchanges. A smart companion who will come to you when you smile, responding with purring and rubbing; and who, when you look at it, will slowly return your gaze with a "slow blink" that says "I love you."