Personality has been studied in cats by researchers at the UK’s University of Cambridge.
Fourteen adult female domestic cats were observed over a period of 3 months. 18 aspects of each cat’s behavioural style were rated by the observers who viewed the animals independently of each other. The ratings were compared with results of direct recording methods, where equivalent measures were available and, in five out of six cases, the results of the ratings and direct methods were significantly correlated. Individual behavioural differences were found between cats, indicating that they have personalities.
Picture Credit: Jennifer Barnard (Wiki Commons)
References
- Feaver J, Mendl M and Bateson P 1986 A method for rating the individual distinctiveness of domestic cats. Animal Behaviour, Volume 34, Issue 4, 1016-1025