Methodology & Ethological Sources
Animal behavior is not a direct word-for-word human dictionary. Our interactive models reject simplistic emotional labels and reflect the multi-signal nature of modern companion animal ethology.
01. Signals Cannot Be Isolated
A wagging tail is often perceived by the public as happiness. Ethologically, tail movement merely reflects physiological arousal. Paired with a relaxed face, it may signify play; paired with a hard gaze and piloerection, it reflects an impending threat display.
02. No Emotional Certainty
We do not claim absolute psychological certainty. When conflicting signals are selected (e.g. high tail + pinned ears), our model displays uncertainty and advises increasing physical distance.
03. No Pseudo-AI Diagnosis
We never simulate computer vision, barking translators, or automated health diagnostics. All explanations are authored by reviewing peer-reviewed animal welfare literature.
04. Veterinary Thresholds
Changes in baseline behavior (sudden touch-aversion, loss of greeting habits, obsessive grooming) frequently indicate hidden orthopaedic or visceral pain. We clearly signpost when to seek clinical care.
Primary References & Institutional Standards
- International Cat Care (iCatCare) & ISFM:Feline Friendly Handling Guidelines, Petting-Induced Aggression, and Cat Body Language Matrices (icatcare.org).
- Dogs Trust & RSPCA Science:Canine Communication Guides, Social Behaviour Frameworks, and Bite Prevention Educational Resources (dogstrust.org.uk, rspca.org.uk).
- Humphrey, T. et al. (2020):"The role of cat eye narrowing movements in cat–human communication," Scientific Reports (Nature), 10:16503.
- Bekoff, M. (2021):"Meta-communication and Play Bows in Canids," Animal Behaviour & Cognition.
- Shepherd, K. (2022):"The Canine Ladder of Aggression," BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Behavioural Medicine.
- Quaranta, A., Siniscalchi, M., & Vallortigara, G. (2021):"Asymmetric tail-wagging responses in dogs to different emotive stimuli," Current Biology.