Experienced cat owners have repeatedly noted that each cat is unique — they differ even in character. Some may be friendly and sociable, while others prefer to keep their distance and do not like it when someone invades their personal space. But can color influence a pet's behavior?
Psychologists from the University of California conducted a study to determine how cat owners perceive the connection between their pets' color and their character.
The Connection Between a Cat's Color and Its Character
The study showed that white cats are generally calm. They are not very active and do not enjoy running and jumping. Their interactions with people are not very successful, and they tend to behave rather aloof. However, they boldly defend their territory and interests.
Two-colored cats, on the other hand, tend to be friendly, although they can sometimes be somewhat distant. In contrast, three-colored cats often do not exhibit friendliness and can be quite intolerant.
As for tortoiseshell cats, they are generally less tolerant but can be trained. Owners of black cats did not notice any special characteristics in their pets and believe that they do not stand out among cats of other colors.
Ginger cats, in contrast, turned out to be the friendliest, most active, and shameless.
Nevertheless, researchers emphasize that their work is based on the subjective observations of owners. The terms “friendly” and “aggressive” can have different interpretations. Currently, there is no practical and convincing evidence that a cat's behavior depends on its color.
Scientists also note that a cat's behavior is primarily influenced by its genetic factors and upbringing, rather than its breed. For example, traits such as courage and confidence are passed down from parents to kittens. Additionally, socialization during the first 2–7 weeks of life plays a key role in shaping a cat's character, allowing for certain “settings” to be established.
Interestingly, cats can influence the mental state of their owners, and this is independent of both color and upbringing.
