Can cats recognise their names?

Cats are known for their independence, and it can seem like a mystery whether they respond to their names at all or if their response is just a coincidence.

So, do cats recognise their names? Here, we dig into the science and behavioural insights to find out if cats know their name.

High-quality cat insurance

Insure all nine lives

We know your cat knows best. But let's keep them protected from any unexpected accidents or illnesses - just in case.

Protect your pet

Do cats recognise their names?

Yes, and researchers have proven it.

Atsuko Saito, a researcher at Sophia University in Tokyo, proved that cats recognised their owner's voice. The study looked at 20 domestic cats and played voices that called out their names while the owner was out of sight. They then played three voices that said their name from people who weren't their owner.

They found that there was orienting behaviour (ear movement and head movement). This occurred when people who weren't their owner called their name too. Researchers concluded that cats use vocal cues to distinguish between humans.

So, there we go. Yes, cats do know their names. And yes, your cat is ignoring you. Sorry to break the unsurprising news to you this way.

How do cats learn their names?

Cats associate their name, especially when combined with their owner's voice, with rewards, like affection and food.

It's why positive reinforcement training works so well with mammals (dogs included) when learning a name; they quickly understand patterns through something called associative learning.

Factors like consistency, reward and tone of voice help a cat's brain form patterns between a positive outcome and the sound.

So, if you want to teach your cat its name (and to respond to it), you need the old reliable: positive reinforcement.

How to teach your cat their name

1. State your cat's name in a clear tone. Make sure you use this tone consistently when speaking their name.

2. When (or if) your cat looks at you, reward them with a treat or some attention.

3. Repeat the process regularly. Keep sessions short and productive.

4. As your cat responds more and more, begin rewarding them less. For example, you should move from giving them a treat every time, to most of the time, to sometimes to not at all.

5. You then replace the treat with different positive reinforcement or change the time of day you do it. You can call their name before playing with them or feeding them, or simply give them some fuss whenever you call their name.

Why do some cats seem unresponsive?

It depends. Usually, it's just their personality and temperament - some cats do their own thing and that's okay.

Context is important as well. If they're regularly distracted by things in their environment, like other cats, it becomes harder for them to focus on your voice.

Similarly, if you haven't trained them consistently, they haven't built up the pattern yet.

Other reasons your cat may ignore you include:

• Age - Older cats tend to respond to their names less for a few reasons, like declining hearing.

• Anxiety, fear or stress - Ignoring you may indicate that your cat is unhappy with their environment.

• Breed - Some cat breeds, especially low-energy ones like Persians, are less social than others.

• Health issues - Cats who are unwell or in pain are less likely to interact.

• Lack of stimulation - A cat who doesn't get mental or physical stimulation will be less likely to interact with you.

• Petting - A cat who dislikes how you pet them will eventually stop responding to you.

If your cat suddenly starts ignoring you or completely changes their personality, you should get it to a vet for a check-up. It can indicate they're unwell.

Benefits of cats recognising their names

There are some benefits if your cat recognises their name, but don't stress too much if yours isn't responding; you shouldn't force it or stress your cat out.

A responsive cat can be beneficial in emergencies or in veterinary care, and it can help you form a stronger bond with your cat.

But it isn't that much of a big deal: as long as you accept your cat's personality and take care of them when they're unwell, you'll have a fruitful relationship.

What else can cats learn beyond their names?

Cats are intelligent creatures, so they can learn much more than their name! They can learn things like:

• Commands, like "food", "no" or "come"

• Recall

• Tricks

• Walking on a lead

Cats have a deep capacity to learn and surprise us.

Pets and names: a bond built on understanding

Cats can respond to their name, and you can train them with some effort and consistency, but some cats won't.

So, whether your cat responds to their name when you call them or not, don't take it too personally.

Generally, cats have their own personalities, quirks and likes, so even if your cat doesn't respond to their name, you can still form a strong bond with them through other means.

Cat insurance helps with up to £15,000 vet fee cover, unlimited 24/7 vet calls with FirstVet and a host of other perks. 

High-quality cat insurance

Insure all nine lives

We know your cat knows best. But let's keep them protected from any unexpected accidents or illnesses - just in case.

Protect your pet