Study Identifies Seven Feline Personality and Behavior Traits

The study, led by Salla Mikkola, examined the reliability and validity of a questionnaire designed to assess feline behavior and personality. The researchers highlighted the importance of understanding cat personalities, as different traits require different environmental accommodations to ensure a good quality of life.

For instance, active cats may need more enrichment activities, while fearful cats could benefit from a calm environment with more hiding spots. Despite previous studies on feline behavior using owner-completed questionnaires, many lacked proper validation and reliability assessments.

"Compared to dogs, less is known about the behavior and personality of cats, and there is demand for identifying related problems and risk factors," Mikkola stated. The research found that common behavioral issues in cats are often linked to aggression and inappropriate elimination.

The comprehensive questionnaire comprised 138 statements assessing five personality traits—activity/playfulness, fearfulness, aggression toward humans, sociability with humans, and sociability with other cats—along with two problems: litterbox issues and excessive grooming.

Mikkola noted that while the number of identified traits varies across studies, activity/playfulness, fearfulness, and aggression are frequently reported. Although litterbox issues and excessive grooming are not personality traits, they may indicate stress sensitivity in cats.

Personality differences were also evident among breeds. The Russian Blue was identified as the most fearful breed, while the Abyssinian was the least fearful. The Bengal breed exhibited the most activity, whereas the Persian and Exotic breeds were noted for their passivity. Additionally, Siamese and Balinese breeds displayed the highest rates of excessive grooming, and the Turkish Van breed showed increased aggression toward humans and lower sociability with other cats.

These findings were published in the journal Animals.