Many cat owners anticipate a life of blissful cuddles, filled with contented purrs. However, reality can sometimes involve unwanted scratches, tail swishes, and even nips. This can be perplexing for owners, but understanding feline behaviour can help.

A cat's desire for affection is significantly influenced by its early experiences. Kittens handled gently from a young age are more likely to be comfortable with human interaction. Conversely, those with a history of negative handling may become fearful or even aggressive. When considering adopting a cat, enquire about its history at the shelter or rescue centre. Were they handled regularly as kittens? Did they exhibit any signs of fear or anxiety? This information can help you choose a cat that is likely to suit your lifestyle.

Genetics also play a role. Kittens born to fearful mothers may inherit a tendency towards shyness. Conversely, those with bold fathers are often more outgoing and adventurous. However, it's crucial to remember that every cat is an individual. Some may enjoy affection, while others may prefer their independence.

Key Considerations:

Respect their boundaries: Never force affection on a cat. If they move away, stop petting them.

Observe their body language: Look for signs of contentment, such as leaning into your hand, purring, and rubbing. Signs of discomfort include stiffening, flattening ears, and tail swishing.

Focus on 'sweet spots': Gently stroke under the chin, around the ears, and along the back. Avoid the belly, as this is often a sensitive area for cats.

Be mindful of their mood: Cats, like humans, have good days and bad days. If your cat seems stressed or unwell, avoid excessive petting.

Consult your veterinarian: If you notice any sudden changes in your cat's behaviour, such as aggression or avoidance, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
​
Remember, every cat is unique. Some may enjoy being held, while others may prefer to remain on the ground. Respect their preferences and build trust gradually. With patience and understanding, you can develop a strong and loving bond with your feline companion.

​Cats are extraordinary beings with unique personalities, needs, and preferences. Identifying your cat’s temperament can help you provide them with a superior quality of life.

Several studies have shown that cats’ personalities vary just like humans’. Some are confident, bold, and sociable. Others are timid, reserved, or fearful. Similarly, each cat behaves differently when confronted with a particular situation or event.

Let’s assess what shapes a cat’s temperament:

Your cat’s personality is influenced by their genetics and the environment they’re nurtured in.  Genetics can impact how comfortable your cat is with people and other animals, how active and curious they are, and how they like to play.

The Oxytocin Receptor Gene (OXTR), which is related to a human-dog attachment, may also foretell a cat’s sociability or roughness. Domestic cats are generally approachable, less fearful, and more exploratory, while feral cats are more vigilant to danger and potential threats from people.

For a cat to live comfortably in your home, they should experience positive interactions with people when they are a kitten. Kittens are most responsive to learning about their surroundings and their experiences can shape their response to humans for a lifetime. Likewise, kittens who have pleasant encounters with other pets are likely to get along with them more easily throughout adolescence and adulthood.

Kittens also benefit from positive exposure to a broad range of novel situations. Lack of exposure to certain sights, sounds, smells, and new people may make cats fearful of the unfamiliar. They may avoid those unfamiliar things throughout their lives by hiding away or being defensive.

Cat personality assessments consider the cat’s behaviours and emotional expressions, which are constant across time and in various contexts. Temperament evaluations are usually conducted and measured across short vs. long-term observations, across distinct tests, in addition to behavioural plus personality questionnaires, and by monitoring cats during their habitual life situations to produce personality types.

Recent research from 200 cat owners conducted by Dr. Lauren Finka suggests cats will have one of five personality types. These five types are influenced by each of the components we discussed—genetics, environment, and developmental upbringing.

Let’s examine what personality type your cat has according to Dr. Finka’s study:

The Human Cat is sociable and enjoys affection from their owner. They love sharing your space with you and are always ready to cuddle or just be near you. They probably want to sleep in your bed at night and right on your keyboard during the day. This cat is incredibly friendly, calm, and responsive toward people. They display affection through kneading and will get lonely without daily social attention.


The Inquisitive Cat is eager to investigate new scents, sights, and sounds around their environment. This instinct is formed by early exposure to new stimuli during the socialization and habituation period. This cat will thrive in an energetic environment by meeting new people and being exposed to novel events and settings on a regular basis. Keep them engaged with puzzle toys, foraging boxes, and cat castles.

The Hunter Cat expresses the most predatory hunting behaviour by stalking and capturing prey. Indoor-only Hunter Cats will especially enjoy “hunting” inanimate objects like mice and feather toys. They might even present you with their latest kill as a gift! Embrace this predacious behaviour to prevent boredom and dissatisfaction.

The Cantankerous Cat’s love language is not physical touch. They aren’t aggressive, they just want you to respect their space—and that’s fair! They are vulnerable to touch, hypervigilant about their environment, and easily frustrated. Be patient, keep them comfortable, and love them on their terms. They may even love to be near you—just not picked up or petted much. Provide plenty of toys for independent play and respect their boundaries.

The Cat’s Cat enjoys sharing their home with other cats. These feline friends could be related or non-related and may even become a bonded pair. Cats like this are likely to have been socialized with other cats when they were young. They will play, groom, and cuddle their feline roommates. They might not even mind being left home alone as much because they have a valuable friend.

Each cat has a unique temperament with a genetic link. When you choose a kitten or adult cat to live closely with you, think about their individuality to make sure they’re well suited to your family and lifestyle. This will help improve the human-cat bond, decrease a cat’s frustration, and enhance their well-being.