What personality type is my cat

Cat Personality Test

The idea of animals possessing personalities was once dismissed by the scientific community but has since gained traction in light of modern research.

Based on the work of Carla Litchfield and colleagues at the University of South Australia, the “Feline Five,” test measures your cat’s personality on five reliable personality factors, using principal axis factor analysis.

What is your cat like? For each of the following statements, indicate how well it applies to your cat below.

The IDRlabs Cat Personality Test was developed by IDRlabs. The Cat Personality Test is based on the work of Carla Litchfield and colleagues at the University of South Australia. IDRlabs is not associated with any specific researchers in the field of personality psychology, counseling psychology, or any affiliated research institutions.

The test measures the following cat personality traits: Extroverted vs. Introverted: Extroverted cats are characterized by high levels of externally-oriented activity. They are energetic, sociable, pleasure-seeking, and they enjoy interacting with other beings. Introverted cats, on the other hand, tend to be more reserved, quiet, low-key, and subdued. Introverted cats also tend to need more time alone to feel at ease.

Dominant vs. Meek: Dominant cats will chase other pets and/or humans, pick fights with them, displace other pets from favored positions, steal their food, etc. Meek cats are more acquiescent and are more inclined to “just exist” at whatever step of the ladder seems serene and tranquil for them.

Impulsive vs. Cautious: Impulsive cats are fearless, intrepid, and impetuous – doing whatever strikes their fancy with little consistency or predictability to their actions. Cautious cats are not so easily stimulated by their environment and keep to the narrower set of activities that they like.

Kind vs. Unfriendly: Kind cats take an interest in interacting pleasantly with others and are mild, kind, and sympathetic. They have a tendency to obey their masters and get along well with other cats. Disagreeable cats are more self-serving and typically less interested in positive interactions with others.

Neurotic vs. Calm: Neurotic cats easily feel threatened in the world and are thus susceptible to experiencing anxiety, stress, and depression to a greater degree than other cats. Calm cats are less likely to be stressed out by adversity and exhibit greater calm and serenity when faced with threats.

The test is based on the following scientific paper: Litchfield CA, Quinton G, Tindle H, Chiera B, Kikillus KH, Roetman P (2017) The ‘Feline Five’: An exploration of personality in pet cats (Felis catus). PLoS ONE 12(8): e0183455.

As the publishers of this free Cat Personality Test, which allows you to screen your cat for characteristics and manifestations of the five major cat personality traits, we have striven to make the test as reliable and valid as possible by subjecting it to statistical controls and validation. However, free online tests and quizzes such as the present Cat Personality Test do not provide professional assessments or recommendations of any kind; the test is provided entirely “as-is. ” For more information about any of our online tests and quizzes, please consult our Terms of Service.

There Are 5 Feline Personality Types – Meowingtons

Did you know that there are five feline personality types? According to a study in which researchers applied a model of human personality traits to pet cats, these feline purr-sonality types are dubbed “The Feline Five,” and include:

Neurotic
Extraverted
Dominant
Impulsive
Agreeable

If you struggle with your cat’s behavioral problems or have a multi-cat household where certain cats don’t get along, understanding your cat's personality can help you understand why your cat is behaving in certain ways. It can help you form a game plan so you can make adjustments to the home or provide your cat with something they're missing, such as environmental enrichment - or something as simple as a place to hide.

Knowing the “normal” or baseline personality of our cats can also help us keep tabs on their health. A change in personality could indicate an underlying medical issue, like a normally outgoing feline suddenly growing withdrawn and hiding more often.

Let's take a look at how to recognize these personality types in your felines and how your cat can benefit!

1. Neuroticism (Skittishness)

Photo: Instagram

Cats with high scores in the "Neurotic" type are anxious or highly strung cats, displaying strongest levels of traits such as insecure, anxious, fearful of people, suspicious and shy. They're the cats that run for cover when visitors come over. They would rather hide than face the unknown!

The key to working with "Neurotic" cats is to give them plenty of opportunities to hide. Provide them with hideaways throughout the house, whether that is a cat tunnel, cat tree, or simply a cardboard box.

According to Dr. Pippa Elliott, these somewhat fearful felines cope with life by avoiding scary situations. But once they learn they are safe, they slowly begin to grow more confident.

2. Extraversion (Outgoingness)

Cats are generally seen as curious creatures, and cats that score high in the "Extroverted" category are even more so; "nosy" might also apply. These cats tend to need more mental stimulation and environmental enrichment. They can get bored easily and may resort to destructive behaviors to vent their pent-up energies.

The answer is to provide them with plenty of toys and spend time each day playing with them.

3. Dominant

Cats with Dominant personalities can make a multi-cat household frustrating and stressful. Dominant cats may hog household resources, such as food, toys, and even the litter box.

If you're struggling with a dominant cat bogarting all the goods, make sure each cat has their own food and water bowls, as well as multiple litter trays. Place these resources apart - the dominant cat can't be everywhere at once.

4. Impulsiveness

Impulsivity in cats isn't necessarily the same as it is in humans. A highly impulsive cat may be reacting to something stressful in their environment.

This type of cat may react differently to the same situation on different occasions. This is often a case of a cat who hasn’t quite learned to cope with life and, when faced with uncertainty, runs first and asks questions later. He may also have to manage a mix of high energy and anxiety.

Never shout at a spontaneous cat (or any other, for that matter) — it will raise his anxiety levels and increase his erratic behavior. It helps to have set routines, such as feedings and playtime, so he knows when something is about to happen — which prepares him to behave more appropriately.

5. Agreeableness

An Agreeable cat is exactly what it sounds like - the social butterfly of the bunch, who gets along with everyone and is never short of a friendly meow, a raised tail, and a happy headbutt. They are ideal cats for a multi-cat household. This agreeable personality is often the result of a cat who was well-socialized as a kitten.

According to the study, low scores for Agreeableness (a cat who might be irritable/aggressive towards people) could reflect "poor socialization, frustration, or underlying pain or illness."

Of course, every cat is unique and has its own blended personality, just as humans are. But being in tune with your cat’s personality can help you better meet your cat's needs on an individual level and provide them with the ultimate kitty paradise in your home.

If you're interested in taking a personality test for your cat, you can find the survey here!

Featured photo thanks to Rexiecat!

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What type of personality does your cat have?

What do scientists say?

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. nine0005

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". nine0005

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

Lauren Fincke Personality Types

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. nine0026
"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. nine0026

Basic personality types of cats

Shy cats, or neurotics

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. nine0005

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

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. nine0005

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

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. nine0005

Spontaneous cats

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

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. nine0005

It doesn't matter what temperament your furry friend has. The main thing is to please your fidget with incredibly tasty and varied food. Introducing your pet to the Felix® range is the easiest way to please and thank him! A variety of tastes and textures - tender pieces in sauce or jelly, a delicious mix of crispy and soft granules and an incredibly tasty treat for the most playful. Such a yummy will surely please your mischievous. Choose the food for your pet from the link. nine0005

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

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There are five types of cat personality - which one suits you? !

Only you know who your pet really is!

Some cats are arrogant, others are gentle Velcro, some are intellectuals, others are shy. But no matter how individual your cat's quirks are, they can still fit into one of these five personality types. nine0005

At least that's what British scientists think, who analyzed data from more than 3,700 cat owners, and then divided all cats into five different types.

"Understanding your cat's personality and recognizing her uniqueness is an important part of maintaining her health and well-being," said Professor Neville, an animal behaviorist who participated in the study. – “Even kittens raised in the same house and from the same litter can be like heaven and earth, if you look at their individual behavior and preferences. The more we appreciate what makes our cats unique, the better we can customize our interactions with them. By accommodating their social and emotional needs, we can create an environment that will enable them to thrive.”

Below, scientists break down the personality types of cats, as well as give tips on how to improve the life of each cat on this list. So, what personality does your cat match?

Nervous shyness
Cats that fit this type are very delicate and can be very shy. These cats can be described as shy and fearful. They will not meet guests at the doorstep, but most likely will wait for their arrival under the sofa. nine0005

Tips:

Create lots of safe spaces for this type of cat, such as boxes and cat tunnels.

Nervous cats like to hide in places where they can wait out danger and relax.

Provide high beds and shelves for cats to view the world from a safe height.

Be patient. This type can only enjoy attention and hugs when they initiate it, so always go at their pace and never force them to contact you. nine0005

Provide routine. Nervous cats like to have predictable meal and play times. Reduce distractions if possible, such as making sure the cat is in a different room before vacuuming or playing loud music.

Clean the litter box in time and adjust it to your cat's needs. An uncomfortable toilet will only increase your cat's nervousness.

Set a good example for your cat. Your cat will be guided by your mood, so try to remain calm when you are at home. nine0005

Expendables

Cats with this personality type are the most extroverted. They are the type that will meow for any reason, like when you get home from work or when they demand to give them treats from the locker. They also love to explore and get bored very quickly if they have nothing to do, which often leads to destructive behavior. Oh, your poor sofa!

Tips:

Make sure you schedule time for your daily cat play. nine0005

Provide a variety of toys to keep your cat busy all day long.

Reward good behavior with praise and favorite treats. Make sure cabinets, windows and doors in the room are securely closed.

Switch your cat to the desired behavior to keep it in check.

Install a kitty kit and scratching posts to keep your cat away from your furniture.

Never yell or punish your cat for misbehaving. They won't understand what it's for, so there's no point in negative reinforcement. You will only end up scaring the animal. nine0005

Use timeouts. If your cat gets too excited, put her in a closed room with lots of toys for 15 minutes so she can switch off her destructive behavior.

Big Boss

This is the type of cat that wants to control all family members in the house, be it you or your other animals. These kitties are masters of the art of manipulation and can easily wrap you around their little paws. They are assertive, easily achieve their goal and do not tolerate competition. nine0005

Tips:

Gradually introduce new family members, especially other cats.

Share your love equally between cats, but interact with each cat individually or in groups while your Big Boss is sleeping or not seeing you - this will avoid provoking competition.

Use food as a motivation. You'll be surprised how quickly your cat will set up a constructive partnership when her lunch is on the line. nine0005

If you have more than one cat, provide separate feeding areas and separate toilets to prevent bullying by the furry manipulator.

Make sure all cats in the family are neutered. Hormones may be responsible for this behavior.

Analyze your cat's behavior and try to be less manipulative. After all, such cats easily control not only relatives, but also owners, which can interfere with their upbringing.

Spontaneous

According to a study, 22% of British cat lovers live with spontaneous cats. These cats are the most impulsive and tend to have a lot of energy, which is sometimes released all at once. If your cat wakes you up every night with a crazy run around the apartment, and sometimes does not hesitate to jump on sleeping people, he is probably this type. If the cat rubs against you, and then sharply bites and scratches, then this type is probably closer to you too.

Tips :

Burn off excess energy with frequent short sessions of interactive play and other activities

Consider walking on a leash every day if there is a quiet place to walk nearby.

Never scold your cat. Yelling is likely to increase anxiety levels and, as a result, only increase spontaneous behavior. Instead, try positive reinforcement for the desired behavior.

Create a routine. Scheduling feedings and games at the same time of day can help keep your cat calm. nine0005

Read your cat's body language. Try to identify things that turn your cat on or learn to recognize the signs of that turn on. This can help highlight any triggers that trigger nerve energy.

Synchronize your activity cycles. Some cats are more likely to stay awake at night than others and prefer to run around your house in the dark. Try to keep these cats awake during the day to change their routine.

Unperturbed

Calm cat, super relaxed, sociable, who just enjoys life. These cats have almost no problematic behavior.

Tips:

Consider getting a friend or girlfriend for your cat.

Serene cats are ideal for families with many animals, often taking young cats under their wing.