As cat lovers, we often find ourselves captivated by the diverse personalities of our feline friends. The internet abounds with articles suggesting which cat breeds are best suited for families, but how much of this information is grounded in scientific research?

A study from the University of Helsinki, led by researchers Milla Salonen, Katariina Vapalahti, Katriina Tiira, Asko Mäki-Tanila, and Hannes Lohi, takes a deep dive into the world of feline behavior, offering valuable insights into the intricate relationship between cat breeds and their distinctive traits.

Contrary to popular belief, the study challenges the notion that breed-related behaviors are mere stereotypes. The researchers collected data from over 5,700 cats across 19 breeds, meticulously accounting for various factors like age, sex, weaning age, and environmental conditions. The findings provide a veterinarian’s perspective on the heritability of specific behaviors, shedding light on the fascinating world of feline genetics.

“We discovered that behaviour traits were heritable and many of them were phenotypically and genetically correlated.”

Social Behavior Traits:

1. Seeking Human Contact:

• Least Likely: British Shorthair
• Most Likely: Korat, Devon Rex

Understanding a cat’s tendency to seek human contact is vital for tailoring interactions and ensuring a harmonious bond.

2. Aggression Towards Family Members:

• Most Aggressive: Turkish Van, Angora, Korat
• Least Aggressive: British Shorthair, Abyssinian, Oriental breeds

Managing aggression within the household requires targeted advice and behavioral interventions.

3. Aggression Towards Strangers:

• Most Aggressive: Turkish Van, Angora, Korat, Devon Rex
• Least Aggressive: British Shorthair, Persian, Cornish Rex

Reducing anxiety and promoting positive social interactions are key for breeds prone to stranger aggression.

4. Shyness Towards Strangers:

• Shyest Breeds: Russian Blue, Domestic Shorthair, Turkish Van, Angora
• Least Shy: Devon Rex, Persian, Cornish Rex

Creating a comfortable space and gradual exposure can help manage shyness in certain breeds.

5. Aggression Towards Other Cats:

• Most Aggressive: Turkish Van, Angora, Korat
• Least Aggressive: Persian

Effective introduction strategies are crucial for managing aggression in multi-cat households.

6. Decreased Contact:

• More Introverted Breeds: British Shorthair, Saint Birman, European Shorthair, Persian
• More Extroverted Breeds: Oriental breeds, Devon Rex, Korat

Understanding a cat’s need for contact aids in creating a supportive environment.

Non-Social Behavior Traits:

7. High Activity Level:

• Most Active Breeds: Cornish Rex, Korat, Bengal
• Least Active Breeds: British Shorthair, Ragdoll, Saint Birman

Tailoring exercise routines is essential for promoting physical and mental well-being.

8. Shyness Toward Novel Objects:

• Shyest Breeds: Russian Blue
• Curious Breeds: Devon Rex, Persian, Cornish Rex

Gradual exposure to new stimuli can help manage shyness toward novel objects.

9. Wool Sucking:

• Most Prone Breeds: House cats, Norwegian Forest Cats, Turkish Van, Angora
• Least Prone Breeds: Persian, Russian Blue

Monitoring wool-sucking behaviors is crucial to prevent potential health issues.

10. Excessive Grooming:

• Most Prone Breeds: Burmese, Oriental, Cornish Rex
• Least Prone Breeds: British Shorthair, Persian

Thorough examinations are needed to rule out underlying health issues for breeds prone to excessive grooming.

Male vs Female

Male cats tend to surpass females in being more sociable, affectionate, and playful. Conversely, females tend to exceed males in being more aggressive and fearful. These gender-related distinctions contrast with findings in spayed and neutered dogs. It’s important to note that male cats also tend to surpass females in the likelihood of urine marking, which is one of the most common problematic behaviors in felines, leading owners to consult veterinarians.

Recognizing Abnormal Behaviors

The study found that various cat behaviors are passed down through genetics, influencing traits such as extraversion, fearfulness, and aggression. The authors suggest that breeding programs focusing on a cat’s personality could lead to improved behavior, enhancing the overall welfare of cats.

Recognizing feline behavior problems due to breed, age or diet helps implement effective intervention strategies. Veterinarians can collaborate with owners to address specific issues and improve overall feline welfare.

In conclusion, this study opens a door to a deeper understanding of feline behavior, allowing veterinarians to offer tailored advice based on a cat’s breed. While genetics play a significant role, it’s crucial to acknowledge the influence of environmental factors and early-life experiences.