Scaredy-cats don't succeed: behavioral traits predict problem-solving success in captive felidae

Abstract

Behavioral traits can be determined from the consistency in an animal's behaviors across time and situations. These behavioral traits may have been differentially selected in closely related species. Studying the structure of these traits across species within an order can inform a better understanding of the selection pressures under which behavior evolves. These adaptive traits are still expected to vary within individuals and might predict general cognitive capacities that facilitate survival, such as behavioral flexibility. We derived five facets (Flexible/Friendly, Fearful/Aggressive, Uninterested, Social/Playful, and Cautious) from behavioral trait assessments based on zookeeper surveys in 52 Felidae individuals representing thirteen species. We analyzed whether age, sex, species, and these facets predicted success in a multi access puzzle box-a measure of innovation. We found that Fearful/Aggressive and Cautious facets were negatively associated with success. This research provides the first test of the association between behavioral trait facets and innovation in a diverse group of captive felidae. Understanding the connection between behavioral traits and problem-solving can assist in ensuring the protection of diverse species in their natural habitats and ethical treatment in captivity.

Keywords: Behavioral flexibility; Cats; Individual differences; Innovation; Keeper assessment.

Figure 1. The multi-access puzzle box showing the open push door technique, or solution one which is opened by pushing the door allowing for access to the food reward.

Figure 2. The multi-access puzzle box showing the pull rope technique, or solution two which swings open by pulling the rope exposing the inside of the box.

Figure 3. The multi-access puzzle box showing the open pull door technique, or solution three which pulls down flush to the ground, exposing the entire inside of the box.

Figure 4. Structure of the first three facets extracted from the PCA.