Finnish scientists have identified seven key qualities of cats
Scientists at the University of Helsinki have identified seven major behavioral traits in cats by analyzing data from several thousand pets of 26 different breeds. The work was published in the scientific journal Animals .
The research was carried out with the aim of developing a personalized approach to the specific problem of behavior that the owners of these willful animals sometimes face.
“Compared to dogs, less is known about the behavior and personality of cats, and there is a need to identify associated problems and risk factors. We need to understand more and get the tools to eradicate problem behaviors and improve feline well-being, ”explained study author Salla Mikkola.
The specialists compiled a questionnaire, which contained 138 questions related to the behavior of pets, their health and origin. The study was not carried out in a laboratory environment, because cats experience severe stress and change their behavior in unfamiliar places. The questionnaire was sent to users of thematic sites. After that, the scientists selected 4,316 questionnaires that inspired confidence. After analyzing the data, experts identified seven key traits of cats.
- Activity, playfulness
- Fearfulness
- Aggression towards people
- Sociability towards a person
- Sociability towards other cats
- Litter box problems (bowel movements in the wrong places, being selective about the litter and cleanliness of the litter box)
- Excessive self-care
“Litter problems and excessive cleanliness are not traits in and of themselves, but they can indicate a cat's sensitivity to stress,” Mikkola said.
The researchers also found that certain character traits can be inherent in different breeds. For example, the most fearful were the representatives of the Russian blue breed, and the most daring – the Abyssinian. The Bengal cat is active, and the calmness is the Persian and exotic cats. Siamese and Balinese cats are characterized by excessive cleanliness.
