The internet is filled with pictures and videos of cats squeezing into impossibly small boxes, bowls, and other containers, perfectly illustrating the popular meme, “if I fits, I sits.” This seemingly quirky behavior has long been a source of amusement for cat owners, but now, science is providing a deeper understanding of the fascinating cognitive processes behind it. A recent study has delved into the spatial awareness of our feline friends, revealing that while they may seem like masters of conforming to any space, their abilities are more nuanced than we might think. [1]

It’s a question that has likely crossed the mind of every cat owner: does my cat actually understand me? While we may never know if they’re secretly plotting world domination, a groundbreaking study published in October 2024 in the prestigious journal Scientific Reports suggests our feline friends might be paying more attention to our words than we ever imagined. The research, hailing from Azabu University in Japan, reveals that cats can form associations between words and images with surprising speed—even outperforming human toddlers in some cases [1][2].

Forget the old stereotypes of aloof, indifferent felines. Recent scientific discoveries are painting a much richer, more complex picture of our beloved house cats. From their surprisingly diverse facial expressions to a newfound understanding of their unique body awareness, the last 12 months have been a wild ride for cat science. But perhaps one of the most exciting revelations for us humans is the emerging evidence that owning a cat might actually help protect your brain as you age.