Cats can be curious creatures, and their behavior towards a Roomba or any other robotic device can vary from one individual to another. There are several reasons why your cat might be fixated on the Roomba:
Curiosity: Cats are naturally curious animals, and anything new and unusual in their environment can pique their interest. The Roomba's movements and sounds may be intriguing to your cat, prompting her to observe it closely.
Predator Instinct: Cats have an innate predator instinct, and the Roomba's movements might trigger that hunting behavior. Even though your cat knows it's not a living creature, the Roomba's motion can still resemble prey, making it fascinating to watch.
Association with Fun or Play: Some cats might perceive the Roomba as a toy, especially if it moves unpredictably and makes noise. They may enjoy interacting with it, even if it's unintentional on the cat's part.
Social Curiosity: Cats are also social animals and may be curious about anything that seems to be part of their human's routine. If your cat sees you interacting with the Roomba or finds it regularly moving around, she might become curious about this new addition to her environment.
Lack of Fear: Not all cats are afraid of robotic devices. Some may be indifferent or even feel comfortable around them, especially if they are raised in environments where technology is common and integrated into their daily lives.
Investigating New Scents: The Roomba may pick up scents from various areas of the house as it moves around, which could also attract your cat's attention. Cats have a keen sense of smell, and they may be investigating these new scents.
It's essential to observe your cat's behavior closely to ensure that she remains safe around the Roomba. While some cats may be comfortable and even playful around robotic devices, others might feel stressed or anxious. If your cat shows signs of fear or discomfort, it's essential to give her a safe space away from the Roomba or any other unfamiliar object.
Overall, a curious and non-fearful reaction from your cat towards the Roomba is relatively common and shouldn't be a cause for concern. Just make sure to supervise their interactions and provide positive reinforcement if your cat's behavior around the Roomba is relaxed and stress-free.