Q. An Ithaca, N.Y., reader writes: "A stray cat appeared at my porch on Easter morning, and I named it 'Easter,' but whenever I called him, he wouldn't come. A friend suggested a new name, 'Deja vu,' and now he comes without hesitation. What's going on?"
A. Probably Deja vu sounded closer to the cat's original name, so it was willing to respond. Both cats and dogs can recognize their name, as well as words such as snack, treat, sit, stay, come, down, outside. "I could personally introduce you to a smart black lab retriever who has learned what event is associated with 'walk' and, subsequently, 'W-A-L-K' when spoken by his owners," says Washington State University veterinary professor John Gay.
Adds "The Pet Counselor" Kay Cox, author of "What Is Your Dog Trying to Tell You," animals have personalities and preferences just like we do. The name Easter can be hard and abrasive to the sensitive ears of a frightened and lost feline. Deja vu is a softer, more inviting sound. "Try calling the two names out loud. See the difference?"
You can join Unsolved Mysteries and post your own mysteries or
interesting stories for the world to read and respond to Click hereScroll all the way down to read replies.Show all stories by Author:  27534 ( Click here )
Halloween is Right around the corner.. .
|
