The 20th century brought scientific rigor to cat behaviour studies, with researchers like Konrad Lorenz and Nikolaas Tinbergen applying ethological methods to understand feline behaviour. Their work established cats as subjects worthy of serious scientific study, laying foundations for modern animal-assisted therapy research.

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World War periods demonstrated cats' resilience and therapeutic value during times of stress. Stories of cats providing comfort during air raids and military service established understanding of cats' emotional support capabilities that inform modern therapeutic applications.