Are male cats more affectionate than female cats?
When it comes to the affectionate nature of cats, many pet owners often wonder whether male cats are more affectionate than female cats. The truth is, the personality and behaviour of a cat can vary widely regardless of its gender, but there are some general trends that can be observed. The assumption that boy cats are more loving and affectionate towards their owners than girls is an incredibly common belief, however scientists have debunked this theory, suggesting that it isn’t in fact accurate.
American veterinarians who specialise in felines have concluded that although sex can have an effect on cats’ behaviour to an extent, it is inaccurate to claim that all cats act in the same way. Studies suggest that there are actually a wide range of traits - biological and environmental - that impact the behaviour of domestic cats, such as breed, colour, upbringing/ socialisation, and neutering status. These factors cause varying hormone levels and familiarity/ comfort in a range of scenarios, thus dictating their reactions to the situations that they’re in.
Male cats, particularly those that are neutered, are often thought to be more affectionate. Neutering can lead to a reduction in territorial behaviours and aggression, which might make them more social and friendly towards humans. Many male cats enjoy cuddling, following their owners around, and seeking out attention. They may be more likely to engage in playful behaviour, which can enhance their bond with their owners. On the other hand, female cats can also be incredibly affectionate, though their behaviour may differ. Female cats are often more independent and may exhibit a more reserved nature. However, they can form strong attachments to their owners and show affection in their own ways, such as sitting close by or bringing ‘gifts’ like caught prey. Female cats can also be very social, especially if they have been socialised well from a young age.
However, it could be argued that it is actually the owners’ preconceived ideas and stereotypes of animals that affect how we as a wider society perceive the behaviour of our pets. For example, some people may consider an ‘affectionate’ cat to be one that gives constant cuddles, while others may consider a cat who is happy to keep their owner company from a distance an affectionate pet. Additionally, owners who expect a cat to prefer to keep their personal space may keep their distance based on this assumption, without really taking into consideration the outward behaviour of their cat.
Similarly, there seems to be a phenomenon, recognised by thousands of people online, that orange cats are much more boisterous than any other breed. Much like the theory of affectionate male cats, this has been broken down by scientists who claim that there is no scientific evidence of orange cats being crazier or less intelligent than their counterparts. In fact, it is more likely that these stereotypes differ or are enforced by cat owners who witness their cats’ often wild behaviour, or claim that they are perfectly well-behaved and intelligent in spite of it.
Ultimately, the level of affection a cat shows is influenced by various factors, including individual personality, breed, upbringing, and socialisation. Some breeds, like Ragdolls and Maine Coons, are known for their affectionate nature, regardless of gender. It's essential to spend time with each cat and understand their unique personality rather than making assumptions based solely on gender.
In conclusion, while some may argue that male cats tend to be more affectionate, it's important to recognise that both male and female cats can be loving companions. The best way to find a cat that suits your affectionate needs is to consider their individual temperament and how they interact with you.
Sources
https://supakit.co/blogs/cat-guides/male-vs-female-cats
https://cats.com/are-male-cats-more-affectionate-than-female-cats