A recent study from Japan has found that cats are able to distinguish their owners from strangers through scent. The research, published in a scientific journal, examined the olfactory abilities of domestic cats and found that they can identify their owners based on unique scent signatures. This ability is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that helps cats form strong bonds with their human companions.
Interestingly, the study also noted that a cat’s personality plays a role in how effectively they recognize their owners. Cats with more social and outgoing personalities were more likely to show recognition behaviors, such as purring or rubbing against their owners, compared to more reclusive individuals. This suggests that while scent is a primary factor in identification, individual temperament can influence the strength of this recognition.