Yes.
But not in a way that should surprise you. A growing body of research indicates that domestic cats show clear signs of being repelled by the people they live with. The behaviour is described as “measured contempt,” expressed through blank stares, strategic distance, and the occasional glare of quiet loathing.
Experts argue this is not unusual. According to the data, cats have long regarded human presence as intrusive, tolerating it only for food and shelter. One researcher noted that the average cat spends up to 70% of its waking hours actively ignoring the person who feeds it.
Owners are advised not to take the rejection personally. “The cat is not angry,” one veterinary consultant said. “It simply finds your continued existence unnecessary.”
Despite these findings, most owners continue to interpret their cat’s hostility as affection, insisting that contempt is a sign of love. The study concluded that the relationship remains stable as long as owners mistake revulsion for bonding.