One fascinating feature of feline behaviour is their ability to thrive in several different social situations.
It is amazing to see a truly feral cat living a life totally independent from people, but other members of the same species adapting to living in free-living colonies, living as street cats (who often have some dependence on people) and of course living in our homes and often forming strong relationships with people, other cats or other species (sometimes all three!).
And here’s the but!
As impressive as this social flexibility is, it applies to the species as a whole and often doesn’t extend to the individual. Not every cat will be suited to living in every different social situation.
Depending on their temperament and experiences (not to mention breed characteristics), many pet cats simply would not survive as independent hunters, some will not tolerate living with another cat and many are happiest with a feline companion.
Understanding cats as a species is super important, but you can’t underestimate the importance of knowing your own cat’s needs.
