Why Cats (And Other Mammals) Like to Be Petted

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Scientists at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena have discovered a group of sensory neurons that is linked to petting and stroking. The researchers used fluorescent tags in mice to identify the neurons. They found a certain group of nerve endings lit up when the mice were stroked while another group of neurons lit up when the mice were poked or pinched. This could show why mammals respond so affectionately to being petted.

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