Cat breed personality types

Kitty Personalities! What Personality Traits Do Different Breeds Have? – FELIWAY Shop

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Are you considering adopting a new kitten, but want to know more about the personality traits that different breeds have?

First and foremost, you need to remember that each cat/kitten will have their own individual personality. Even though a breed may be described as ‘a friendly breed’ or ‘an independent breed’, that trait may be obvious in one cat and less so in another!

So, whilst a cat’s breed is a key consideration, there are other important things you will have to take into account before you make a final decision and bring your purrfect bundle of fur home.

Other Kitty Considerations to take into Account

Adult cat or kitten? Whilst all cats are cute, kittens are particularly so! If you choose a kitten, make sure you can devote plenty of time to nurture them into a loving cat that will fit well into their new home and environment. Remember that kittens can be challenging (and sometimes destructive) whilst they are exploring their new surroundings; however, an older cat will have developed their personality, and their traits and habits may not be as destructive as a kitten’s.
Other family members: What’s not to love about a new kitten! However, if you have young children in the home, their time with the kitten should be supervised. In their excitement, children might not be as gentle as you would like, and the kitten may scratch in their own defence or in an effort to escape! Teaching children how to handle a kitty safely, and helping them learn to let a cat come to them in their own time, is important for happy family interactions!

An older cat may be less accessible to children as they are less playful, larger and can make their escape more quickly - it’s important that they have places to go to be alone - but they may take longer to settle in if they have been used to a quieter, more predictable environment.

If you have senior family members, you will be amazed at how therapeutic they will find a cat’s company as they offer unconditional love and companionship; adopting an older cat might be more advisable in these situations as the cat will be calmer and less skittish than a kitten might be.

Other family pets: Other family members can mean other pets in the home too! Introducing a new cat into a home where there is already a resident cat, or dog can bring some challenges. Careful thought will have to be given to your resident cat’s personality, and any experience with other pets.

You will also need to consider space availability, resources (each cat, for example, will need their own space, bed, food bowls, scratching post etc.) and how sociable your other pets are too.

Lifestyle: If you have a busy work life, you may need to consider a cat that is happy to spend time alone when you are at work - or if you work from home, you may want a cat that is happy to quietly curl up on your lap without fuss, and keep you company at your desk. Cats know what they like and can give you good tips if you are going to work from home!

What Personality Traits do Different Breeds have?

When considering adopting a cat, ultimately the choice is a personal one, and even though you may be looking to choose a breed based on their personality trait, remember cats are all individual and their own personality will probably still shine through in time.

Genetics do play a part in a cat’s temperament, but early experiences when they are kittens will also influence their character; if they have plenty of positive exposure to living with humans - and other pets - at an early age, this will also have a positive impact on their personality as they grow older.

A study by American Veterinary Medical Association, has found that there are 5 Feline Personality Traits in cats:

Neuroticism: reflects the traits of insecurity, anxiety, fearful of people, suspicion, and shyness.
Extraversion: these traits include being active, vigilant, curious, inquisitive, inventive, and smart.
Dominance: includes bullying as well as the characteristics of dominance and aggression toward other cats.
Impulsive: These traits include erraticism and recklessness.
Agreeable: These include affection, friendliness to people, and gentleness.

Cat Breed Traits

In general terms, however, here are some personality traits of a few of our favourite feline friends. We’ve split them into two broad categories:

More adventurous breeds:

Abyssinian: Busy, active, purposeful and affectionate cats with lots of energy. These kitties are intelligent and talkative!
Bengal: Curious, energetic and athletic. Require plenty of stimulation both mentally and physically.
Devon Rex: Has the look and personality of a Pixie.
Norwegian Forest Cat: An active breed that loves hunting and climbing.

Ocicat: A strong, active and sociable cat.
Ragdoll: Lots of energy and very curious cats so like to know what’s going on!
Siamese: Determined, vocal, active, affectionate cats but they don’t like being left alone.
Balinese: Known for their intelligence and inquisitive nature, they make loving companions that will sit quietly with you, and often enjoy being petted.

More relaxed breeds:

American Shorthair: Even tempered and quiet.
American Wirehair: Even temperament.
Bombay: Playful and affectionate, they make great lap cats.
British Shorthair: Curious cats that like to relax. They also enjoy company and will chill happily on the couch next to you.
Burmese: This breed becomes attached to their family very quickly and are very outgoing.
Chartreux: Gentle, playful yet quiet cats .
Himalayan: These cats like peaceful environments, so may not enjoy a home full of children but may be good as a companion for a senior.
LaPerm: Affectionate and gentle, likes sitting on your lap but also very active so enjoy games.
Maine Coon: Gentle cats that are good companions that enjoy mental challenges so they like lots of playtime.
RagaMuffin: Affectionate, docile and loves people - and yes, we love the name as much as you do!
Turkish Van: Sweet and curious.

Let’s not forget our mixed breed feline friends! It may be more difficult to predict their personalities but if adopted from a cat rehoming centre, their cat-carers will have spent lots of time with them and will be able to advise you on their personality traits so that you can make an informed decision.

Whichever cat breed you choose, make sure that you provide all the resources they need, get to know their own personality - which could reflect their breed - and develop that special bond that humans have with their feline friends. Using FELIWAY Optimum will help your cat continue to feel calm and serene in their new home, whatever their personality trait.

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Ten Popular Cat Breeds and Their Personalities

At Animal Care Center of Castle Pines, we believe that every cat has its own individual personality.

However, a cat’s breed will determine its personality to a certain extent. Different breeds of cats exhibit different typical characteristics. Knowing more about cat breed personalities can help you understand your cat’s behavior and provide for their unique needs.

Cats can be vocal and affectionate, or quiet and reserved; some are very devoted, others are more independent. Some cats need a lot of stimulation and exercise, while others need more affection and cuddling. Today, we’re comparing ten popular cat breeds and their general personality traits.

1. Domestic Shorthair

The domestic shorthair is the most common breed of cat. Because they are a mix of various breeds, they can be black, grey, white, calico, tabby, tuxedo, or tortoiseshell. Their personalities vary as much as their markings, but all of them are strong and energetic. Domestic shorthair cats were originally “working cats” meant to control the rodent population on farms. They have a strong hunting instinct that needs to be satisfied with stimulating play. Their urge to hunt gives them lots of energy, even during the night. Don’t be surprised if they get a sudden attack of the zoomies at 4 a.m.

2. Abyssinian

This ancient breed is known for its reddish fur, but colors can range from cinnamon to blue. Very playful and inquisitive, they will accompany you around the house and yard and try to “assist” you with your chores. Abyssinians are intelligent cats that love games. They will even play fetch! Talkative as well, they make gentle trilling sounds when they chat. Abyssinians grow very attached to their owners and don’t like to be left alone. They need a lot of affection, attention, and active play.

3. Bengal

This breed’s fur is marked with spots and rosettes like its Asian leopard cat ancestors. Bengal cats are talkative, friendly, and need lots of exercises. They might even enjoy going for hikes outdoors, like Suki the Adventure Cat. Similar to their wild great-grandparents, Bengal cats are exceptional hunters and very intelligent. They have excellent memories and will learn tricks. Unlike most cats, they love water and will even play in it.

4. Lykoi

Wispy, wiry black and white fur combined with partial hairlessness give the Lykoi a striking appearance. Also known as the wolf cat or werewolf cat, this new breed has an unusual personality to match its unusual visage. Werewolf cats are very affectionate and loving, but they are often timid of strangers. They especially enjoy games and toys that involve problem-solving skills. They can be possessive of their favorite toys and don’t like to share. Although Lykoi seems independent and will play on their own, they still need lots of affection.

5. Maine Coon

These unusually large cats have big feet and long, thick fur. Gentle pets and keen hunters, Maine Coon cats have an appetite to match their size. Calm and very friendly, Maine Coon cats are good companions, and their curiosity will make them follow you everywhere you go. Super affectionate, they always enjoy a good snuggle. Maine Coon cats also have a very social personality—they love to chat with people and other animals. Don’t be surprised if they perform a funny stunt to make themselves the center of attention.

6. Persian

Known for their long hair and squashed faces, this gentle breed requires regular grooming and should remain indoors only. Typically quiet and rather aloof, Persians dislike loud noises and enjoy lounging regally upon a cushion or a lap. Less active than other breeds, their shorter legs make them less inclined to jump and climb. Although they do enjoy the attention, they will not demand it. Persian cats are usually quite shy and reserved around strangers, but affectionate with people they know.

7. Ragdoll

This large, affectionate breed is very docile and sweet-tempered. Ragdoll cats have blue eyes, fluffy fur, and pointed markings similar to a Siamese. Extremely devoted, a Ragdoll cat will follow you around the house much like a puppy would. Ragdoll cats need interactive play to ensure that they get enough exercise. As their name implies, they like to be held, snuggled, and carried around. Ragdoll cats have musical voices but are usually very quiet.

8. Russian Blue

A playful and intelligent breed that is relatively shy, Russian Blue cats are known for their bluish-gray fur and bright green eyes. They shed less and make less dander because of their short, thick, double coat of fur intended for cold Russian winters. They hate loud sounds like vacuum cleaners and are most often fairly quiet and reserved. However, they enjoy playing with people that they know and like. Russian Blue cats become very devoted; they will always greet you at the door when you come home from work.

9. Siamese

Intelligent and very vocal, this breed is mischievous and talkative. When they have an opinion, they will let you know. Not all Siamese cats have the “pointed” coloring that makes the breed famous, but their distinct patterning is a natural mutation. Siamese cats bond strongly with their owners and are very loving. Siamese cats need active, stimulating play and lots of affection. Their personalities require a great deal of social interaction.

10. Sphynx

These completely hairless cats are very social, active, and devoted. Even though they look moody, their personalities are actually quite the opposite. Sphynx cats are friendly with other pets and love snuggling with a furrier friend. Since they don’t have hair, they also love a warm lap and squeak their displeasure if you interrupt their slumber. Talkative and constantly hungry, a Sphynx cat will be sure to inform you when dinner is late.

Contact Us

No matter what type of cat you have, Animal Care Center of Castle Pines will provide the loving care your pet deserves. We customize each appointment according to your pet’s unique needs. As an accredited member of the American Animal Hospital Association, we are dedicated to providing the highest standards of veterinary care. Contact us to schedule a wellness examination for your cat today.

What type of personality does your cat have?

What do scientists say?

Cat Personality TypeSource: Depositphotos

Researchers from several universities have studied behavioral patterns in cats. And identified several possible types of cats.

Researchers at the University of South Australia asked 2,802 cat owners from Australia and New Zealand to answer a 52-item questionnaire with characteristics. For example, participants had to rate how aggressive, playful, smart, and sociable their cat is. After collecting all the data, scientists have identified five main factors that can be considered as a certain type of personality: neuroticism, dominance, impulsiveness, friendliness, extroversion.

And researchers from La Trobe University, using a similar survey, were able to identify not five, but six types of feline personalities: playful, nervous, friendly, dominant, demanding and trusting. That being said, the playful cats in their study above can be compared to the extroverted personality type from the first study.

But there is another study by Dr. Lauren Finca of the University of Lincoln. She identified 5 other personality types with the help of a survey: "cat-man", "cat-hunter", "cat-cat", "grumpy cat", "inquisitive cat".

Let's take a closer look at each personality type of cats.

Lauren Fincke Personality Types

Cat Personality TypeSource: Depositphotos

Let's start with the latest research. So:

"Cat-man" is a loving family member who loves to spend time with a person. Such a pet prefers to be in the company and does not like to be alone, and he will prefer any entertainment to those in which his beloved owner will take part.
"Cat-hunter" loves toys in the form of mice, he actively watches what is happening on the street. At night, hunting instincts wake up in him and he makes night “tygydyks”. Such cats definitely need to fill the need for hunting, otherwise the object of their persecution will be a brand new sofa or favorite socks.
Cat-cat is a sociable friend of all cats. He will make friends with any cat, and he absolutely needs feline company.
Grumpy Cat is a pet with an independent character that will always defend its boundaries. He does not like being picked up or distracted from business. But this does not mean that he does not need a master: he simply decides when he wants warmth and love.
"Inquisitive Cat" is an explorer. He will always meet the owner with rustling packages, jump on the top shelves of cabinets and look for adventures. Such cats are simply shown to walk on a harness and explore the world.

Basic personality types of cats

Shy cats, or neurotics

Cat personality typeSource: Depositphotos

Such cats are most often subject to stress. They may be afraid of people, loud noises. Spend time in their hideout. If a stranger is at home, the cat will be attentive, suspicious and cautious.

Shy cats should be provided with a safe place where they feel at ease. They should not be forced to caress, usually they themselves initiate hugs. You also need to provide them with a routine: feed strictly at a certain time, play also at the same intervals.

With a neurotic cat, you need to be patient and try not to frighten her once again with a loud vacuum cleaner or a rumble in the kitchen.

Boss Cats or Dominant Cats

Cat Personality TypeSource: Depositphotos

These cats know exactly what they need and when. They like to be the owner's one and only, they are jealous of other cats and even family members. They know how to persuade the owner to do anything and how to ask him for another serving.

Such a cat definitely needs its own space, in which it will be the mistress. Try not to be manipulated by the boss cat. But at the same time, give her due attention and affection, then the cat will become more docile.

And if you are going to make a cat friend, then do it gradually and be prepared that this process can be long and complicated. Never encourage competition.

Playful or extrovert cats

Cat personality type Source: Depositphotos

Active and always positive, ready to play 24/7 both with the owner and other cats, and just with toys. They have fun even being alone - the main thing is to have something to play with. The owners of such cats need to come up with entertainment and games, you can buy smart toys and feeders to satisfy the need for activity.

If an extroverted cat is bored, she can start destroying everything around her. For good behavior, the cat must be praised, and if the pet does not behave as we would like, then you need to switch her attention to something more interesting, for example, a box or a cat complex. In no case do not shout or punish the cat - this can provoke it into aggressive behavior.

Spontaneous cats

Cat personality typeSource: Depositphotos

You never know what to expect from such a cat. Yesterday she was calm as a boa constrictor, today she asks for affection and love, and tomorrow she rushes around the house and wants to play and jump on the tops of cabinets.

Spontaneous cats should not be subjected to stress - to be calm, she needs stability. An excess of energy should be spent on games, and the schedule will help reduce anxiety levels.

Trusting, very calm

Cat personality typeSource: Depositphotos

Scientists believe that this type arose as a result of selection. These are the most affectionate cats that are ready to lie on the owner's lap and do nothing else. They love people and are drawn to them, easily get along with anyone.

Loneliness is hard for them, but at the same time they endure it calmly and without destroying the apartment. The owner for them is the whole world. So that the cat does not get bored, you can make her a friend. But the main place in the life of this cat is still occupied by the owner. So do not skimp on affection and love.

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And tell us in the comments what type of personality does your cat have?

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seven personality types found in cats

08 September 2021 15:41 Olga Muraya

The cat is one of the most popular pets, but scientists know little about the intricacies of the "inner world" of these animals.
Photo of Milla Salonen, Heikki Siltala.

Researchers have identified not only the presence of characteristic personality types in cats, but also specific traits inherent in different breeds of caudates.

If you ask any cat lover to describe in a few words the nature of his pet, many would answer that they are the proud owners of the "arrogant muzzle". However, everyone would, for sure, note that his "impudent muzzle" at the same time still has a bright personality.

Finnish (no, not British) scientists decided to test whether domestic cats have characteristic personality types. Indeed, by determining the personality type of a cat, it is possible to develop an individual approach to a specific behavioral problem that the owners of these willful animals sometimes face.

"Compared to dogs, less is known about the behavior and personality of cats, and there is a need to identify associated problems and risk factors. We need to understand more and have the tools to eliminate problem behaviors and improve feline well-being.

The most common behavioral problems associated with cats are aggression and defecation in the wrong places," says lead author Salla Mikkola of the University of Helsinki.

The authors of the study created a questionnaire of 138 questions regarding the nature and behavior of cats. It also included a series of questions about the health and origin of the cat.

These questionnaires were then sent to cat owners, as it is known that it is almost impossible to study the behavior of these cautious animals in the laboratory: they cease to behave naturally in unfamiliar territory.

To test the quality of the results, three months after the study, the researchers asked cat owners to complete the same survey again. Thus, they at the same time confirmed that such questionnaires help to solve the tasks. As a result, scientists have compiled a list of the most common traits of the character and behavior of cats.

A total of seven key traits were identified:

Activity/playfulness
shyness
Aggression towards a person
Sociability towards a person
Sociability towards other cats
Problems with litter box (defecation in inappropriate places, selectivity for cleanliness and litter tray)
Excessive cleanliness

"While a number of traits identified in previous studies differ, activity/playfulness, shyness and aggression identified in our work are found most frequently in previous work. Problems with the litter box and excessive cleanliness are not personality traits in themselves, however they may indicate a cat's sensitivity to stress," Mikkola added.

Researchers have also found that individual traits can be found not only in different cats, but can also be inherent in different breeds.

So, the most shy breed was the Russian Blue, and the least shy - the Abyssinian. The Bengal cat is one of the most active breeds, and Persian cats and exotics were named the calmest. Siamese and Balinese cats were found to be overly clean, while the Turkish Van was found to be the most aggressive towards humans and the least sociable towards other cats.

In the future, the authors plan to use more sophisticated models that will identify specific factors behind a particular behavior or character trait of an animal. In addition to the cat's breed, scientists will take into account its age, sex, health and a number of environmental factors.

The work of Finnish scientists was published on July 2, 2021 in the scientific journal Animals.

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