Lockdown Has Made Cats More Friendly To Their Owners, Says Study

Anyone who has owned a cat will know the struggles of getting it to show affection.

While some tabbies will love a cuddle or a play around, there are plenty more who cannot stand it when you are needy.

However, it seems like lockdown restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic have helped change some cats' behaviour.

Nearly 90 per cent of respondents who have a cat said their feline friend had provided them emotional support since March.

One woman who added to the survey said her 15-year-old cat named Humphrey has been way more affectionate during lockdown.

Lottie said: "He has never been a cuddly cat and didn't enjoy a tickle like other cats I've had. He is a friendly boy, but he's very aloof and loved being out and about.

"But a few weeks into lockdown he started sitting on my lap when I'm watching TV which wouldn't have happened before. And now he likes coming up to bed with us. I always take the dogs out last thing and Humph now waits for me in the garden."

A further 51 per cent of respondents said their cat has been outside less during the lockdown that has caused millions of people to work from home to prevent the spread of the pandemic.

Pets have probably been pretty surprised to see their owners around the home much more than usual.

You'd think some animals would be getting a little heavier due to their owners being able to give them breakfast, lunch, dinner and a few snacks along the way. However, the survey also revealed 95 per cent of dogs haven't gained weight.

One thing that dog owners need to be aware of if and when lockdown restrictions are eased is separation anxiety. Owners have been there every day to give them bulk food, pets and walks and they will need a bit of time to get used to you not being there all the time.

Veterinarian Dr Kate Adams told AAP that they could get up to a lot of mischief and even hurt themselves when you go back to the office.

"Dogs are super social - if it was up to them, they would just have their owners around 24 hours a day. It's inevitable that it's going to be a massive adjustment," she said.

"They can get up to everything from chewing electrical cords, or eating stuffing out of couches or their beds, or even just something small like falling off the couch and hurting their back."

On the flip side, don't expect your cat to be clawing at you leg before you head off to work.

Dr Adams added: "Honestly, cats will probably be very glad when we all go back to work. They'll probably be like, 'Okay, bye guys, I want this house back to myself now'."