Does My Cat Know Its Name or Is It Just Ignoring Me?

Have you ever called your cat’s name, only to be met with complete indifference? No flick of an ear, no glance in your direction. But the moment they hear the fridge door open, they’re at your feet, meowing and brushing against your leg as if they’ve been waiting for you all along.

It makes you wonder if they actually know their name. Keep on reading to find out if your cat knows its name.

Do Cats Know Their Name?

Cats might seem like they ignore us when we call their names, but research shows they know more than they let on. 

A 2019 study found that cats respond to their names more than to other words. They might not come running, but a small movement like turning their head or flicking an ear can be a sign they recognize it.

Scientists tested this by saying four different words to each cat, all similar in sound to their name. Household cats reacted more often, but café cats barely responded. With so many voices calling different names, it’s harder for them to tell which one is theirs.

Does Your Cat Recognize Your Voice?

Cats may seem independent, but when it comes to the voices they trust, they know exactly who to pay attention to. Research shows that cats can recognize their human’s voice and even prefer it over others.

In a 2013 study, researchers tested this by playing four different voices for 20 cats, one of them belonging to their pet parent. The cats quickly showed a clear preference, turning their heads and focusing on their owner’s voice while gradually ignoring the strangers.

Experts say this helps cats feel safe because they can distinguish family from unfamiliar people. Even if they don’t always come when called, they’re listening and they know exactly who they belong with.

Other Sounds Cats Recognize

Cats may not understand all our words, but they can associate sounds with good or bad outcomes. They respond to the tone of our voice, especially when it’s higher-pitched.

They also recognize sounds that signal food or attention, like the pantry door creaking, the vacuum being plugged or the car pulling in. 

Food, territory, and affection are the most important things to cats. They know who to turn to for these things, and they show their love to that person exactly.

How To Train Your Cat to Know Their Name

Choose a reward your cat loves, whether it's their favorite treat, playtime, or petting. Say their name, and when they respond, reward them immediately. 

Keep the treats small because cats can only eat so much, and once they’re full, they lose interest. 

Keep the training short and stop if your cat shows signs of boredom or frustration.

Final Thought

You can relax knowing that your cat knows the name you carefully chose for them. They wear it proudly, responding only when the person they love calls it. 

And if they ignore you after you say their name a few times, it might just be their way of getting affection. Our advice? Take the hint and cuddle up with your kitty.