Introduction
A “cat person” refers to someone who has a strong affinity for domestic cats and identifies themselves as preferentially favoring felines over other animals, especially dogs. Cat people tend to share certain personality traits and characteristics that draw them to the independent and aloof nature of cats.
Some of the common personality traits associated with cat people include introversion, creativity, openness, neuroticism, empathy, intelligence, individuality, and femininity. Cat people are often portrayed as being more introverted, sensitive, introspective, and independent compared to stereotypical “dog people.”
This article provides an overview of the typical personality traits and characteristics associated with people who consider themselves “cat people.” It explores why certain types of personalities may be drawn to cats over other pets.
Introversion
Research has shown that cat people tend to be more introverted than dog people. Cat owners score higher in introversion on personality tests than dog owners.1 Introverts tend to prefer less social interaction and more solitary activities. They usually have a smaller group of close friends rather than a large network of acquaintances. Introverts value their independence and often pursue hobbies or interests that they can enjoy alone. Cats as pets seem to mesh well with this type of personality, as they require less intensive social interaction than dogs. The independent nature of cats matches the introvert’s need for space and alone time. Overall, the introverted temperament of cat people differs from the more extroverted nature of dog people.
Creativity
Studies have found that cat people tend to be more creative and artistic compared to dog people. According to a survey by Nestlé Purina PetCare, cat owners were more likely to describe themselves as creative and were more interested in arts and culture compared to dog owners (https://nypost.com/2018/01/16/cat-people-are-creative-but-dog-owners-tend-to-earn-more/). The same study found that cat people scored higher on verbal intelligence tests. Cat owners were better at Scrabble, had larger vocabularies, and were more articulate in self-expression. This indicates that cat people tend to have superior verbal skills and abilities compared to those who prefer dogs.
Openness
According to research published by WebMD, cat people were 11% more likely to score higher in openness on personality tests.[1] Openness refers to a personality trait characterized by curiosity and open-mindedness. People who are more open tend to be creative, imaginative, and willing to try new things.
An article by Petplan also notes that cat lovers tend to be curious and open to new experiences and ideas.[2] Their curiosity may stem from observing the independent nature of cats. Cat people are often introspective and independently minded themselves.
Overall, the research indicates cat people score higher in openness on personality tests compared to the average population. Their inquisitive nature and active imaginations fuel their openness to new experiences and ideas.
Neuroticism
Studies have shown that cat people tend to be more neurotic and anxious than dog people. According to research published in the journal PLOS One, cat people scored higher on neuroticism than dog people by about 12% (https://www.webmd.com/pets/ss/slideshow-truth-about-cat-people-and-dog-people). Neuroticism is characterized by being more prone to stress, worry, and anxiety. The researchers suggest this could be because cats are more independent pets that do not rely on their owners as much, so cat owners may not get the same self-esteem boost that dog owners do from having their pet depend on them.
Additional research from Texas A&M University found that cat people scored higher on neuroticism scales than dog people (https://www.discovermagazine.com/mind/the-truth-about-cat-people-and-dog-people). Neurotic people tend to be more anxious, insecure, and sensitive to stress. The study authors propose that neurotic people may be more drawn to cats because cats are also less social and more insecure in new environments compared to dogs. So cat people may feel they relate better to the temperament of cats.
Empathy
Cat people are often highly empathetic and able to relate to others and understand different perspectives (Source). Studies show that cat owners score higher on tests measuring empathy and ability to adopt another’s point of view. This is likely because cats exhibit more subtle body language and emotions compared to dogs, so cat owners must be more attuned to pick up on their pet’s needs. The intimate bond between cat and human requires mutual understanding and perspective-taking. Cat people are often introspective and can recognize the emotions of others, including their feline companions.
Cats seem to demonstrate a form of empathy where they understand human emotions and needs. For example, cats may comfort their owners who are sad or sick by cuddling up to them. While the cat may not literally feel the human’s emotion, they can sense the change in behavior and energy. Their empathetic response creates a caring connection. Similarly, cat people are able to sense the moods of other people and animals and modify their own behavior in response. This “cognitive empathy” allows deeper social bonds between both cat-human and human-human.
Intelligence
Some studies have found that cat people tend to score slightly higher on intelligence tests compared to dog people. For example, a 2014 study published in the journal Animal Cognition found that self-identified cat people scored higher on intelligence tests involving vocabulary, reasoning, and memory (Source). The researchers theorized this could be because smarter people are drawn to cats due to their independent nature that doesn’t require constant care or interaction like dogs. Additionally, a survey of 600 college students showed that cat lovers had higher grade point averages and SAT scores than dog lovers (Source). While the intelligence difference is modest, these studies suggest cat people may have slightly higher IQs on average.
Individuality
Cat people tend to value their individuality and nonconformity more than dog people. Studies show that cat owners are more likely to have personalities characterized by high openness and lower extraversion compared to dog owners. Cat people are often more introverted, sensitive, intelligent and open to new experiences. They prefer to follow their own instincts rather than conform to societal pressures.
One study found that cat owners scored higher on intelligence tests than dog owners. The researchers theorized this could be because more intelligent people are able to better appreciate the unique personalities and behaviors of cats. As solitary hunters, cats are often seen as symbols of independence and free-spiritedness. Cat people may be attracted to these qualities and see their own nonconformist streak reflected in their feline companions.
As the study The Science Behind Being a Cat Person noted, cat people tend to emphasize their pet’s individuality, describing their cat’s unique personality traits and quirks. This appreciation for individualism often extends to cat owners’ views of themselves as well. Rather than blindly follow the crowd, cat people are more likely to follow their own path.
Femininity
Research has shown that cat people are more likely to exhibit traditionally feminine personality traits like sensitivity and nurturing behavior compared to dog people. Female cats in particular tend to be very devoted and attached to their owners, seeking physical closeness and affection. This is thought to attract more feminine-minded individuals. According to one study published in Anthrozoos, cat owners scored higher on femininity scales than dog owners 1. Qualities like being gentle, sympathetic, and sensitive were more associated with cat people personalities. The same study found that cat owners were 12% more neurotic than dog owners, suggesting cat people may be more in touch with their emotions. The affectionate yet independent nature of cats seems to mesh well with feminine sensibilities.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several notable personality traits that tend to be more common among cat people compared to the general population. Cat owners tend to be more introverted and require more alone time than others. They also tend to be highly creative and open to new experiences. Many cat lovers score high in neuroticism and exhibit anxious tendencies. Empathy and intelligence are two additional qualities found frequently among feline fans. Cat people cherish individuality and freedom, and opt for pets that mirror their independent spirits. There is also a connection between femininity and cat ownership, as cats have traditionally been associated more with women.
These personality patterns likely emerge because the temperament of cats matches well with certain types of people. Like their owners, cats are usually introverted, intelligent, free-spirited and independent creatures. The calm, affectionate nature of cats may also appeal to those with anxious tendencies looking for comfort and companionship. For people who value creativity and curiosity, a cat’s playful nature and air of mystery can be very inspiring. In many ways, cats and their owners share and complement each other’s personalities. The unique bond between cats and their people is built on mutual understanding and respect.