# Why dogs obey instructions while cats often ignore them

New Scientist examines why dogs usually follow human instructions while cats largely ignore them, citing differences in domestication, social cognition, and motivation. The explanation helps clarify common pet behavior and how humans communicate with different animals.

**Importance:** 2/5

## Sources

### Science
- [New Scientist](https://www.newscientist.com/article/2595716-why-do-dogs-usually-follow-instructions-but-cats-largely-ignore-them/?utm_campaign=RSS|NSNS&utm_content=home&utm_medium=RSS&utm_source=NSNS) — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 18:00:00 +0000