Why are flies flying over the cat? - briefly
Flies are attracted to cats due to the warmth and scent they emit. Additionally, cats' fur can provide a safe haven for flies to rest or lay eggs, further explaining why they often hover above them.
Why are flies flying over the cat? - in detail
Flies are often observed flying over cats due to several interconnected factors. Firstly, cats are predators that consume insects as part of their diet. This natural behavior leaves traces of odors that attract flies. Cats also possess specific pheromones and scent markers that can be detected by flies, drawing them in proximity.
Additionally, the body heat emitted by cats serves as a homing signal for flies. Flies are cold-blooded creatures that rely on external sources of warmth to regulate their body temperature. The relatively higher body temperature of cats compared to their surroundings makes them an attractive target for flies seeking warmth.
Moreover, the movement and activity of cats can generate air currents that flies exploit for navigation. These turbulent flows provide opportunities for flies to ride on air currents, which aids in their dispersion and exploration of new environments.
Lastly, certain species of flies have evolved to be attracted to specific chemicals present in cat feces or urine. These substances act as olfactory cues that guide flies towards the source, which is often the cat itself. This attraction can be particularly strong for certain fly species, such as blowflies and flesh flies, which are known to lay their eggs on animal waste or carcasses.
In summary, the combination of odors, body heat, air currents generated by movement, and specific chemical attractants in cat excretions collectively contribute to the phenomenon of flies flying over cats.