Effects of Socialization on Problem Solving in Domestic Cats.

Simple Summary: Research has shown that animals that are used to interacting with human beings are better at problem solving. We socialize domestic cats by taking advantage of a sensitive period in their development to make them more amenable to humans so that we can keep them as pets. We studied if this socialization makes the cats better able to solve problems by giving them a puzzle box with a food reward. We studied cats from an animal shelter that used tests to determine incoming cats' socialization. We found that more socialized cats were more likely to solve the puzzle and solve it faster. We can use this information to tell us about cat socialization, cat cognition, and the effects of human exposure on other animals. Domestic cats are capable of leading both solitary and social lives and socializing to humans. This type of socialization may also enhance an animal's problem-solving ability. We examined the relationship between socialization and problem-solving ability, problem-solving speed, and latency to approach a novel apparatus in domestic cats. Socialization towards humans was measured with the Feline Behavior Assessment based on the ASPCA's Feline Spectrum Assessment. This modified measure requires assessors to observe an individual cat's behavior during three steps: observation test, door test, and the stroke and push test. During each test, the assessor examined specific behaviors that are indicative of socialization. Problem solving was assessed with a food-acquisition puzzle box that required the subject to pull on a tab to release a food reward. Twenty-four out of eighty-six cats solved the problem-solving task. More socialized cats were more likely to solve the problem, solve it faster, and approach the apparatus sooner. We also found a significant relationship between age and problem solving; younger adult cats were more likely to solve the problem than older adults. These results provide evidence that domestic cats are not only capable of solving this type of problem but also that their socialization towards humans influences their abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]