Now researchers have discovered that this is because cats don’t see their owners as a source of safety and security in the same way dogs do, making them much more independent and less reliant. 

In particular, they found cats don’t suffer from separation anxiety and any noise they make when their owner leaves is more likely to be out of boredom or frustration.

The study was led by Daniel Mills, Professor of Veterinary Behavioural Medicine at the University of Lincoln’s School of Life Sciences. 

He explained that while it is increasingly recognised cats are more social and more capable of shared relationships than previously thought, this latest research shows adult cats are more autonomous – even in their social relationships.