It is difficult to find a person who would doubt that cats are incredibly smart. These furry creatures are real Einsteins of the animal world, because sometimes it seems that the only thing they can’t do is talk
Cats adapt well to changes in environment, are trainable and have an excellent memory. However, which breeds are distinguished by the highest level of intelligence? Or can all representatives of the feline family boast of a sharp mind equally? These are the questions that English and European researchers wanted to understand.
Abyssinian cat
Country of origin: Ethiopia
Weight: 3-6 kilograms
An interesting study on assessing the intelligence of different cat breeds was conducted by the University of Helsinki in 2021. During the study, scientists tested 4,300 cats representing 26 breed groups. During the study, seven traits were identified by which experts tried to assess the mental abilities of furry animals: playfulness, timidity, aggression and sociability towards people, sociability towards cats, problems with the litter box and self-grooming. The final results were quite interesting.
So, the Abyssinian cat is one of the smartest breeds. The animal is very inquisitive and active. It gets along well with dogs, cats and birds. Abyssinians are known for their independence and stubborn character. They require constant mental stimulation, so owners need to take care of purchasing toys and puzzles for animals.
Bengal cat
Country of origin: USA
Weight: 5-6 kilograms
Cats of this breed are famous for their good memory, they also easily learn tricks and can open cabinet doors. These cats require constant mental stimulation and physical exercise, otherwise they will regularly arrange a real Armageddon in your home.
Researchers note that the Bengal cat's high intelligence may be due to its ancestral relationship with the Asian leopard cat.
Burma or Burmese Shorthair Cat
Country of Origin: Burma
Weight: 5-6 kilograms
This is an energetic, curious and playful breed that loves interactive toys and is easy to train. Unlike Abyssinians and Bengals, these cats crave attention, they will literally follow their owner until they get the necessary share of communication.
Cornish Rex
Country of origin: England
Weight: 3-5 kilograms
This is a sporting breed that loves to run, jump and explore the area. Therefore, these cats feel very bad in small spaces. Cornish Rexes are closer to Burmese cats in character. They do not tolerate separation from their owner well and cannot stand prolonged loneliness.
Scottish Fold
Country of origin: Great Britain, Scotland
Weight: 2.7-6 kilograms
One of the smartest cat breeds. In order for the intellectual abilities of pets not to deteriorate, they need games and toys. Despite their intelligence, they are much less active than representatives of other breeds, so owners should take into account that already plump cats quickly gain excess weight. Their diet must be carefully monitored.
Singapore cat
Country of origin: Singapore
Weight: 2-3 kilograms
The Singapore cat is incredibly energetic. Don't look at its modest size. This breed requires constant hunting and interactive games. Loves to be in the company of people.
Siamese cat
Country of origin: Thailand
Weight: 3-6 kilograms
The Siamese cat, known for its beauty, is also one of the smartest breeds. These cats are very trainable and can easily learn to walk on a leash. They are talkative.
Angora cat
Country of origin: Turkey
Weight: 3-5 kilograms
These cats can boast not only high intelligence, but also a soft, affectionate character. They are extremely dependent on communication with people and are very demanding in terms of attention. Experts have repeatedly been surprised by the ability of Angora cats to open any doors, cabinets and even taps.
Japanese Bobtail
Country of origin: Japan
Weight: 3-5 kilograms
Like dogs, these cats are able to learn many commands. They are quite active and energetic, so they need enough space to play. They are extremely dependent on communication with the owner, so if possible, they try to constantly follow him and take part in all his affairs.
The results of the study are approximate. Scientists noted that today, unfortunately, there is no standardized test for measuring the intelligence of cats. Experts are convinced that each breed has its own unique set of characteristics that allowed it to adapt to environmental conditions, survive and become better.