Life in proximity

Life in proximity to humans and other domestic animals has led to a symbiotic social adaptation in cats, and cats may express great affection toward

humans or other animals. Ethologically, the human keeper of a cat functions as a sort of surrogate for the cat’s mother.[102] Adult cats live their

lives in a kind of extended kittenhood, a form of behavioral neoteny. Their high-pitched sounds may mimic the cries of a hungry human infant, making them

particularly difficult for humans to ignore.[103] However, some pet cats are poorly socialized. In particular, older cats show aggressiveness towards

newly arrived kittens, which include biting and scratching; this type of behavior is known as feline asocial aggression.[104]