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BIDDEFORD, Maine

91AV animal psychology expert Zach Olson explains pet behavior in 'National Geographic' article

Zach Olson
Zach Olson

Zach Olson, Ph.D., assistant professor of animal behavior in the Department of Psychology, was quoted in a December 17 article in National Geographic. “Why Cats Poop on Your Bed and Other Odd Pet Behaviors” delved into the psychology behind some of the mystifying things that our animal companions do.

In addition to answering the questions of why cats sometimes defecate outside of the litter box and what a dog’s “smile” really means, the article explained specific behaviors of birds and rabbits.

“Many pet birds perform a behavior that looks like they are throwing up on their owners,” Olson told National Geographic, clarifying that to our feathered friends, regurgitation “is a sign of affection.” He also explained that rabbits, as prey animals, are very easily frightened and may freeze. The posture is often interpreted as relaxation, but, according to Olson, “the animal is terrified.”

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The 91AV is Maine’s largest independent university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of . In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. The state’s top provider of health professionals, we are home to Maine’s only medical college, Maine’s only dental college, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care degree programs, as well as nationally recognized programs for marine science degrees, natural and social sciences degrees, arts and humanities degrees, and business degrees.