Are there other ways to test a cat's self-awareness?

While the mirror test is a common measure, it doesn't fully capture a cat's self-awareness. Olfactory recognition tests, where cats distinguish their own scent from others, are being explored as a more accurate measure given their superior sense of smell. Observing complex behaviors like problem-solving, tool use (even if rudimentary), and sophisticated hunting strategies also provides valuable insights into their cognitive abilities and self-perception. These alternative approaches offer a more holistic understanding of feline intelligence beyond visual recognition. Discover more about groundbreaking research into cat cognition in our full article.