Hungry Cats Might Find Dead Bodies Yummy

Feral cats were caught on camera feasting on human corpses at a  decomposition research facility in Colorado. The two cats were reportedly looking for specific corpses to feed on, suggesting that they might have a preference. A study has tapped into this rare occurrence to document and analyze the cats’ behaviour, and try to explain their preference for specific corpses, as ScienceAlert detailed: 

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It’s actually pretty well established that house-cats (and dogs) will take a nibble of a deceased owner. And, well, it makes sense: if Tom Tildrum is locked in a house with a cornucopia of ripe meat, and no other food source, of course he will make do with what’s available.

Generally, such pets go for soft, exposed bits. This can include (warning, very graphic images at next link) the lips and nose, or the hands and feet. The feral cats, notably, did not go near these regions, perhaps partially because the bodies were unclothed and other parts of the body were easier to access.

“In both cases reported here, the feral cats targeted areas where the skin had been previously penetrated,” the researchers wrote.

“Both cats showed preference for bodies in relatively early decomposition. Scavenging began when the bodies showed early signs of decomposition and ended at the onset of moist decomposition. The cessation of scavenging at the onset of moist decomposition may be explained by felids’ preference for fresh tissue.”

Although it can be confronting to think of our furry pets merrily chowing down on our cooling flesh, the research is important for establishing scavenger behaviour profiles to aid forensic analysis.

image via wikimedia commons

Source: neatorama

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