C is For? Memory Quiz
Who says cats can’t spell? Odin demonstrates forms a purr-fect letter C to prove his point, but how long will he have a memory of it?
A dog’s memory only lasts 5 minutes. How long can a cat’s memory last?
A) 2 minutes
B) 60 minutes
C) Forever
D) 16 hours
I often think the answer is C, but the correct answer is D) 16 hours, based on a study comparing dog and cat short-term memory by a psychology professor at the University of Michigan and a behaviorist from the American Museum of Natural History. Cats and dogs were shown the location of a hidden treat but not allowed to retrieve it right away. The cats were able to recall the location of the treat up to 16 hours later, where as dogs could only remember the correct location for up to five minutes.
6 Comments
Tinch
They do better than I do, particularly when I go grocery shopping. I forget things that are on my list!
Weetzie's
Jeeez, no wonder dogs are so happy! Their worries just float away.
Ingrid King
Well, none of us here are surprised that cats are smarter than dogs, I’m sure.
I actually think the “real” answer might be “C” – especially if we believe that animals have souls, and soul memory lasts forever.
boomermuse
In terms of long term memory, I agree. Like elephants, some kitties never forget! In the short term, 5 minutes vs 16 hours is staggering.
Marg
That is a pretty interesting fact. I did not know they could remember things that long. Some of mine can’t remember from one minute to the next. Take care and have a fun day.
boomermuse
Marg, cats also know how to live in the moment 😉