Define our own Personalities has become something of an obsession, with tons of tests popping up to decipher the basics of who we are. And now maybe ours Cats can join in the fun. Move over Myers-Briggs and the “Big Five“Is a new cat-centric poll in town that finds cats also have a concise number of purr sonality traits.
The study published in the journal animals, found that seven traits are responsible for the personality and behavior of our feline friends. In addition, these traits vary between breeds and can be used to improve the welfare of our pets.
Often overshadowed by dogs in research, there isn’t much about the personality of cats. “Compared to dogs, less is known about cat behavior and personality and there is a need to identify related problems and risk factors. We need more understanding and tools to eradicate problematic behavior and improve the welfare of cats, ”said author and doctoral student Salla Mikkola in a opinion.
The researchers conducted a 138-question survey aimed at cat owners to provide information about the background, health, and behavior of their fluffy companion. Among other things, the owners were asked to indicate the sex, breed, coat color, date of birth and main activity of their cats. A total of 4,316 cats were included in the final sample.
From the many responses, the researchers were able to identify the following seven traits – five personality and two behavioral traits:
- Activity / playfulness
- anxiety
- Aggression towards people
- Socializing with people
- Socializing with cats
- Problems with the litter box (not using or using it incorrectly)
- Excessive maintenance
The study also found that races as well as individuals exhibit different personality and behavioral characteristics. Of the 26 breeds examined, “the most fearful breed was the Russian Blue, while the Abyssinians were the least fearful,” according to study author Professor Hannes Lohi.
“The Bengal races were the most active, while the Persians and Exotics were the most passive,” Lohi continued. “The breeds with the most excessive care were the Siamese and Balinese, while the Turkish Van breed scored significantly higher in aggression towards humans and lower in sociability towards cats.”
Unlike previous studies, the team assessed the reliability of the questionnaire by having owners fill it out again a few months later. Lohi therefore considers it “the most extensive and important survey to date and offers excellent opportunities for further research”.
This future research, says Mikkola, “will use more complex models to examine factors that influence traits and problem behavior. In these models, we take into account not only the breed, but also the cat’s age, gender, health and a large number of environmental factors. “
But for now, the research conducted in the study will allow experts and owners to identify genetic, environmental, and personality factors that could determine cat behavior. Paw-some!