Latest news with #YumeOkamoto
RTÉ News
27-06-2025
- Science
- RTÉ News
Is your cat loud or quiet? It could be in their genes
Analysis: Research suggests cats don't have a single temperament, but rather various traits that prove useful under different domestic conditions By Grace Carroll, Queen's University Belfast If you've ever shared your home with more than one cat, you'll know how different their personalities can be. One might chirp for food, purr loudly on your lap and greet visitors at the door. Another might prefer quiet observation from a distance. So why do some cats become chatty companions while others seem more reserved? A recent study led by wildlife researcher Yume Okamoto and their colleagues at Kyoto University suggests that part of the answer may lie in cat genes. From RTÉ Radio 1's Drivetime, the relationship between humans and cats Cat owners from across Japan were asked to complete a questionnaire about their cat (the Feline Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire), and to take a cheek swab from their pet to provide a DNA sample. The survey included questions about a range of cat behaviour, including purring and vocalisations directed at people. The researchers in the recent Japanese study focused on the cats' androgen receptor (AR) gene, located on the X chromosome. This gene helps regulate the body's response to hormones such as testosterone and contains a section where a DNA sequence is repeated. AR is an essential part of vertebrate biology. The most ancient form of AR appeared in the common ancestor of all jawed vertebrates, over 450 million years ago. AR controls the formation of male reproductive organs, secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive behaviour. The number of these sequences alters how responsive the gene is. Shorter repeats make the receptor more sensitive to androgens. In other species, including humans and dogs, shorter repeats in the AR gene have been linked with increased aggression and extraversion. Among 280 spayed or neutered cats, those with the short AR gene variant purred more often. Males with the variant also scored higher for directed vocalisations such as meowing to be fed or let out. Females with the same genotype, however, were more aggressive towards strangers. Meanwhile, cats with the longer, less active version of the gene tended to be quieter. This variant was more common in pedigree breeds, which are typically bred for docility. Domestication is generally thought to have increased vocal behaviour in cats, so it may seem odd that the version of the gene linked to increased communication and assertiveness is the one also found in wild species such as lynx. But this study doesn't tell a straightforward narrative about how cat domestication selects for sociable traits. Instead, it points to a more complex picture. One where certain ancestral traits like aggression may still be useful, especially in high-stress or resource-scarce domestic environments. From RTÉ Radio 1's Ray D'Arcy Show, should all cats be indoor cats? Some animals spend a lot of time around humans because they are attracted by our resources rather than bred as companion animals or farmed. Urban gulls offer an interesting example of how close proximity to humans doesn't always make animals more docile. In cities, herring and lesser black-backed gulls (both often referred to as seagulls) have become bolder and more aggressive. Researchers at Liverpool John Moores University found that urban gulls were less fearful of humans and more prone to squabbling compared to their rural counterparts. In urban areas, where food is highly contested, being assertive gets results. Gulls are often vilified in the UK press during breeding season as urban villains, swooping down to snatch your lunch or chase pedestrians. This suggests that life alongside humans can sometimes favour more confrontational behaviour. From cats to gulls, life alongside humans doesn't always produce gentler animals The parallels with cats raise broader questions about how environment and genes shape behaviour. Okamoto and colleagues' findings may reflect a trade-off. Traits linked to the short AR variant, such as greater vocalisation or assertiveness, might offer advantages in gaining human attention in uncertain or competitive settings. But these same traits may also manifest as aggression, suggesting that domestication can produce a mix of desirable and challenging traits. It's worth bearing in mind that this kind of variation between individuals is fundamental to the evolution of species. Without variation in behaviour, species would struggle to adapt to changing environments. For cats, this means there may be no single ideal temperament, but rather a range of traits that prove useful under different domestic conditions. From cats to gulls, life alongside humans doesn't always produce gentler animals. Sometimes, a little pushiness pays off.
BBC News
27-06-2025
- Science
- BBC News
The answer to a cat's loud meow might be buried in its genes
Some cats are quiet, while others meow loudly for attention. What makes the difference may be buried deep in their genes. If you've ever shared your home with more than one cat, you'll know how different their personalities can be. One might chirp for food, purr loudly on your lap and greet visitors at the door. Another might prefer quiet observation from a distance. So why do some cats become chatty companions while others seem more reserved? A recent study led by wildlife researcher Yume Okamoto and his colleagues at Kyoto University in Japan suggests that part of the answer may lie in cat genes. Cat owners from across Japan were asked to complete a questionnaire about their cat (the Feline Behavioural Assessment and Research Questionnaire), and to take a cheek swab from their pet to provide a DNA sample. The survey included questions about a range of cat behaviour, including purring and vocalisations directed at people. The researchers in the recent Japanese study focused on the cats' androgen receptor (AR) gene, located on the X chromosome. This gene helps regulate the body's response to hormones such as testosterone and contains a section where a DNA sequence is repeated. AR is an essential part of vertebrate biology. The most ancient form of AR appeared in the common ancestor of all jawed vertebrates, over 450 million years ago. AR controls the formation of male reproductive organs, secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive behaviour. The number of these sequences alters how responsive the gene is. Shorter repeats make the receptor more sensitive to androgens. In other species, including humans and dogs, shorter repeats in the AR gene have been linked with increased aggression and extraversion. Among 280 spayed or neutered cats, those with the short AR gene variant purred more often. Males with the variant also scored higher for directed vocalisations such as meowing to be fed or let out. Females with the same genotype, however, were more aggressive towards strangers. Meanwhile, cats with the longer, less active version of the gene tended to be quieter. This variant was more common in pedigree breeds, which are typically bred for docility. Domestication is generally thought to have increased vocal behaviour in cats, so it may seem odd that the version of the gene linked to increased communication and assertiveness is the one also found in wild species such as lynx. But this study doesn't tell a straightforward narrative about how cat domestication selects for sociable traits. Instead, it points to a more complex picture. One where certain ancestral traits like aggression may still be useful, especially in high-stress or resource-scarce domestic environments. Some animals spend a lot of time around humans because they are attracted by our resources rather than bred as companion animals or farmed. Urban gulls offer an interesting example of how close proximity to humans doesn't always make animals more docile. In cities, herring and lesser black-backed gulls (both often referred to as seagulls) have become bolder and more aggressive. Researchers at Liverpool John Moores University found that urban gulls were less fearful of humans and more prone to squabbling compared to their rural counterparts. In urban areas, where food is highly contested, being assertive gets results. Gulls are often vilified in the UK press during breeding season as urban villains, swooping down to snatch your lunch or chase pedestrians. This suggests that life alongside humans can sometimes favour more confrontational behaviour. More like this:• Three ways cats can control our minds• Why do we think cats are unfriendly?• The complicated truth about a cat's purr The parallels with cats raise broader questions about how environment and genes shape behaviour. Okamoto and colleagues' findings may reflect a trade-off. Traits linked to the short AR variant, such as greater vocalisation or assertiveness, might offer advantages in gaining human attention in uncertain or competitive settings. But these same traits may also manifest as aggression, suggesting that domestication can produce a mix of desirable and challenging traits. It's worth bearing in mind that this kind of variation between individuals is fundamental to the evolution of species. Without variation in behaviour, species would struggle to adapt to changing environments. For cats, this means there may be no single ideal temperament, but rather a range of traits that prove useful under different domestic conditions. From cats to gulls, life alongside humans doesn't always produce gentler animals. Sometimes, a little pushiness pays off.* This article is adapted from a piece that originally appeared on The Conversation, and is republished under a Creative Commons licence. -- For more science, technology, environment and health stories from the BBC, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.
The Star
10-06-2025
- Science
- The Star
Cats have evolved genetically to communicate better with us
Japanese researchers have now shed some light on one of the most intriguing of these mysteries by discovering the genetic mechanism behind purring. — Pixabay Humanity's faithful companions for thousands of years, cats fascinate and mystify us in equal measure. Despite their close relationship with humans, many aspects of feline behaviour remain impenetrable to us. Japanese researchers have now shed some light on one of the most intriguing of these mysteries by discovering the genetic mechanism behind purring. Unlike other mammals, few behavioural studies have been conducted on cats, leaving many aspects of their communication mechanisms unclear. However, domestic cats are remarkably sociable animals, enabling them to live in groups and form complex bonds with other cats as well as with humans. The team at Kyoto University's Wildlife Research Centre in Japan, led by Yume Okamoto, a PhD student specialising in feline behaviour, studied 280 mixed-breed cats living in Japanese homes. The response was immediate: 265 cat owners responded to the call for participants in a single day, demonstrating the public's keen interest in understanding our whiskered companions. By analysing their DNA samples and comparing them to those of 11 other feline species, scientists were able to establish for the first time a direct genetic link between purring and a variation in the androgen receptor gene. The results speak for themselves. Cats carrying the short version of the androgen receptor gene score higher on purring scales, as assessed by their owners, than those with the long version. But this genetic difference is not only linked to simple purring. It is also associated with gender-specific behaviour. Males with the short gene vocalise more toward humans, while females with the same genetic profile display more aggression toward strangers. These discoveries take on a fascinating dimension when placed in the context of feline evolution. Comparative analysis with other Felidae species reveals a genetic transformation directly linked to domestication. While the leopard cat and the fishing cat, species closely related to the domestic cat, only have the short version of the gene, our domestic cats have long variants that are completely absent in their wild cousins. This observation suggests that the emergence of these long versions is the result of profound genetic changes that accompanied domestication and artificial selection over thousands of years. Published in the scientific journal PLOS One, this study also highlights the differences between pure-bred cats and mixed-breed cats. The former, often raised by humans from an early age, are more likely to carry the long version of the gene and seem to have less developed vocal communication skills. Conversely, mixed-breed cats in the study, many of which were former stray cats that had been rescued, tended to meow more. They are more likely to have the genetic variant that promotes vocalisation, as if they had developed more intense communication strategies to survive and get adopted. This genetic understanding of feline behaviour isn't just about satisfying our scientific curiosity about our beloved furry friends. The ability to predict certain behavioural tendencies based on genetic data could facilitate targeted observation and care tailored to the specific needs of each cat. The Kyoto-based team plans to extend its investigations to other feline species to further our understanding of the genetic mechanisms behind various behavioural patterns. The goal remains clear: To enrich our knowledge about cats and help build more harmonious relationships between these animals and humans. – AFP Relaxnews
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
The Genetic Mystery of Why Cats Purr May Finally Be Solved
A study from Japan has identified potential genes behind cat purrs, and the discovery could help us understand why our furry companions make these contented rumblings. Despite humanity's long relationship with domestic cats (Felis catus), the purr remains mysterious, and its purpose is still up for debate. So is whether similar vocal vibrations in big cats also count as purrs, or if the phenomenon is unique to the smaller members of the cat family. The new information may eventually help solve some of these outstanding questions. Analyzing the DNA and owner-reported behavior of 280 domestic cats, Kyoto University biologist Yume Okamoto and colleagues identified a gene linked to purring and other forms of cat vocalizations. Cats with short-type androgen receptor genes were reported to purr more by their owners than those with a long-type. Male cats with this short-type gene were also reported to be more vocal towards humans. Androgen receptors mainly regulate testosterone, so the length of the gene likely influences testosterone-related behaviors, which include vocalization. By examining this gene across 11 cat species, the researchers found the long-type version was only present in domestic cats. Even their closest relatives, the fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) and leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis), did not have the longer forms of the gene, suggesting it arose during cat domestication. Previous research found pure-bred cats are more likely to have the long-type gene than mixed-breed cats, which often began life as strays. As such, the researchers suspect cats consistently raised by humans aren't as dependent on vocal communication for their survival, allowing cats with the long-type genetic variation to survive in the pure-bred population. "This result aligns with the association between purring and vocal communication as strategies for seeking attention or support, benefiting survival through interactions with both cats and humans," Okamoto and team write in their paper. Cats also purr when they are severely injured, so some researchers have proposed purring could be a healing mechanism too. A few years ago, researchers found squishy pads in cat vocal cords produce the low-pitched vibrations without muscle contractions, so the 25- to 30-Hz rumble is, to some extent, automated. We're gradually getting a better understanding of this soothing cat behavior. "Through our research, we hope to deepen our understanding of cats and contribute to building happier relationships between cats and humans," says Okamoto. This research was published in PLOS One. There's an Invisible Line That Animals Don't Cross. Here's Why. Dehorning Rhinos Cuts Poaching by 78% – Saving Thousands of Animals' Lives Worms Use Their Bodies to Build Towers as a Wild Survival Strategy
Newsweek
30-05-2025
- Science
- Newsweek
Scientists May Have Found What Makes Cats Purr
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Our enigmatic little furry friends may have just given up one of their secrets, as scientists think they have discovered the gene which underpins purring in cats. Cats are believed to purr for various reasons, from expressive contentment and self-soothing to even helping promote bone regeneration and heal fractures. The study—which was undertaken by Yume Okamoto and colleagues at the Kyoto University Wildlife Research Center in Japan—focused on variations in the so-called androgen receptor gene, which has been linked to various feline behaviors. "Through our research, we hope to deepen our understanding of cats and contribute to building happier relationships between cats and humans," Okamoto said in a statement. Stock image of a purring cat Stock image of a purring cat Konstantin Aksenov/iStock / Getty Images Plus In their study, the researchers worked with 280 domestic cats, all of whom were neutered or spayed mixed breeds kept as indoor pets. The team both conducted behavioral assessments on the felines and collected DNA samples—allowing them to compare the androgen receptor gene with those in the other species of Felidae, the wider cat family. The findings supported the hypothesis that a genetic basis exists for both purring and other forms of vocal communication in cats. Specifically, those cats with the "short-type" androgen receptor gene were reported as purring more by their owners than those with the "long-type" gene. Male cats with the short-type gene also tended to be more vocal with humans, while their female counterparts exhibited more stranger-directed aggression. When the researchers compared the domestic cats' DNA with those of 11 other Felidae species—including cheetahs, leopards and tigers—they found that domestic cats carried longer-type androgen receptor genes not found in other members of the Felidae family. The findings revealed that those cats raised by humans since kittenhood—which are typically pure-breed cats—tend to rely less on vocal communication. Previous studies have indicated that pure-breed cats are more likely to carry the long-type gene. Of the cats in the study, many of the mixed breed felines were former strays, suggesting that rescue cats may be more vocal. The team also noted that both the fishing and leopard cats—which are both closely related to domestic felines—possessed only the short-type version of the androgen receptor gene. Put together, the findings suggest that the emergence of the longer-type genes may be a result of genetic changes associated with domestication and selective breeding. With their initial study complete, the researchers are now planning to expand the focus of their research to include other species of the Felidae family. In the meantime, the findings may help us better understand our feline friends—and how best to care for them. "When we called for participants, we were moved to receive responses from 265 cat owners from across Japan in just a single day—and received kind messages," Okamoto said. She concluded: "This reminded us of the strong public interest in cat research." Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about cats? Let us know via science@ Reference Okamoto, Y., Hattori, M., & Inoue-Murayama, M. (2025). Association between androgen receptor gene and behavioral traits in cats (Felis catus). PLOS ONE, 20(5).
