The Truth About Cat Personalities (And How to Choose Yours)
Cats aren’t one-size-fits-all—and neither are cat parents. Some cats are lap-hugging cuddlebugs, while others prefer quiet companionship from across the room. When it comes to adoption, understanding feline personality is key to finding the right match.
At Moricat, we believe every cat is worthy of love, but not every cat is right for every home. Here’s what you should know about cat personalities, and how to pick one that fits yours.
1. Yes, Cats Have Personality Types
Just like people, cats show consistent behavior patterns across time and situations. Researchers call this “cat temperament” or “behavioral syndromes.”
In one study, adult shelter cats were tested using multiple behavior assessments. The researchers found that cats showed stable individual differences in boldness, sociability, and responsiveness to humans, even across different contexts (Gourkow et al.).
Tip: Don't rely on one interaction. A quiet cat in a shelter might still have a curious side that comes out in a calm home.
2. Personality Affects Adoption Outcomes
A mismatch between adopter expectations and the cat’s personality is one of the top reasons for dissatisfaction or returns.
One study found that when the adopted cat’s behavior didn’t align with the adopter’s ideal image, satisfaction dropped, especially if the cat was more active or aggressive than expected (Kobayashi et al.).
Tip: Ask shelter staff what kind of play style, vocalization, and human interaction the cat enjoys, not just how they behave in a cage.
3. Shelters Use Tests to Help Guide You
Many shelters now use personality screening tools like the Feline Temperament Profile (FTP) to better match cats with homes. One study showed that “acceptable” FTP traits, like approachability and low aggression, were linked to successful placements (Vitale Shreve et al.).
Tip: Ask if your shelter uses any formal personality assessment tools. It can help you skip guesswork.
4. Look Beyond Age or Breed
People often assume kittens are playful and seniors are mellow, but that's not always true. A bold senior cat may need more stimulation than a timid kitten.
Likewise, breed-based personality myths don’t always hold up, especially in mixed-breed cats commonly found in shelters.
Tip: Focus on observed behaviors, not assumptions. That “quiet” adult may turn into a playful shadow at home.
5. The Best Match Is One That Matches You
Are you home a lot and looking for a cat who follows you around? Or do you want a low-key roommate who enjoys her own space?
Research shows that the strongest bonds happen when human expectations align with feline behavior (Kobayashi et al.). You don’t need the “friendliest” cat, you need the right one for you.
Tip: Be honest with yourself. Want a lap cat? Say so. Prefer one that chills independently? That’s okay too.
Final Thoughts
Cat personalities matter, and knowing how to match your energy with theirs can be the difference between a good adoption and a lifelong bond.
Whether you want a talkative sidekick or a gentle observer, there's a cat whose personality fits yours perfectly. And when you find that match, the relationship becomes effortless.
At Moricat, we celebrate cats of every temperament. From cozy beds for shy cats to toys for curious explorers, our products are designed to help every cat, and every adopter, feel right at home.
References (MLA Style):
Gourkow, Nadine, et al. “Individual differences, behavioural assays, behavioural syndromes, companion animal, Felis silvestris catus, shelter cats, human-cat relation.” Journal of Veterinary Behavior
Kobayashi, Takuya, et al. “Adoption of cat, follow-up survey, house soiling, owners, questionnaire.” Japanese Journal of Animal Behavior
Vitale Shreve, Kristyn, et al. “Cat temperament, human-nonhuman animal relations, animal shelter, Autism, cat adoption.” Animals
Writen by: Moodra
Designed by: Lexin Yuan