If you’re familiar with terms like “orange cat behavior” and “tortitude,” you’re well aware that certain cat personality traits are associated with coat color. It’s not unusual for two cats living under the same roof to have dramatically different dispositions, and much like the stereotypes that follow blondes and redheads, baffled pet parents may attribute these quirks to color.
Whether your feline companion is stubborn, clingy, friendly, or shy — is there any proven correlation between color and disposition? Here’s what researchers have uncovered so far.
While most current evidence suggests that there is no causal relationship between coat color and behavior patterns, a 2022 study on cat personality traits and cat-owner relationships did uncover certain correlations.
What remains unclear is whether color itself explains the researchers’ observations or if the cats in the study were influenced by their owners’ expectations. In other words, it’s possible that people who anticipate that their cat will be outgoing, reserved, or mischievous based on their coat color may help create this reality by the way they socialize their cat.
Let’s explore some of the prevailing stereotypes around cat color.
Tabby cats come in a wide range of striped patterns and earth-tone colors. They are known for being social, vocal, affectionate, and curious about visitors. A tabby who wants to be the center of attention at your next gathering fulfills many people’s expectations of stripey cats.
While they are considered bad luck in some cultures, many people associate black cats with grace and mystery. Some scientists considered black cats more evolutionarily advanced than their brightly-colored counterparts, as their dark coat helps them sneak up on prey. As pets, black cats are associated with loyalty and intelligence.
The 2022 study seems to bear out common gray cat stereotypes. Silver-coated cats are known for being aloof, independent, and quick to hide from unfamiliar noises and people.
Tortoiseshell cats, affectionately known as “torties,” are widely considered sassy and moody. Pet parents familiar with “tortitude” have probably experienced a tortoiseshell cat go from playful to grouchy in the blink of an eye. People who love torties tend to view their temperamental nature as endearing.
Calico cats are a beautiful blend of black, white, and orange. Their reputation for being stubborn, independent, and selectively affectionate may have more to do with the fact that virtually all tri-colored cats are female. Many pet parents report that, even after being spayed, female cats are generally more protective and less clingy than males.
A quick search for orange cat antics says it all: we expect orange felines to be playful, affectionate, and a bit chaotic. Around 80% of orange cats are male, which may explain why they tend to be bolder and more vocal around strangers.
The delicate, refined appearance of white cats probably contributes to our perception of them as shy and quiet. Only about 5% of cats have all-white coats, making them one of the rarer varieties of domestic long and short hairs.
The same study that found a correlation between coat color and personality also explored the relationship between cat-owner interactions and traits like friendliness and boldness.
The level of emotional closeness between a cat and their human predicted an outgoing and active personality, as did the amount of time cats and owners spent together playing or cuddling. These findings indicate the way a cat is socialized may impact their friendliness as much or more than the genetics behind their coat color. Unfortunately, this correlation cuts both ways — pet parents who expect their cat to be fearful or temperamental may interact with their pet less frequently, creating a sort of self-fulfilling prophecy.
Sadly, coat color has a definitive and measurable impact on adoption rates. Black and tuxedo cats experience the highest rates of euthanasia (74%) and the lowest rates of adoption (10%), while white cats are most likely to find a new home. Considering that 50-80% of all shelter cats are euthanized in some NC counties, “black cat bias” is a death sentence for many cats and kittens.
Prospective cat owners who want a loving, outgoing pet should know that they play an important role in shaping their new friend’s personality. Cats of any color make ideal companions when they get enough attention, affection, and enrichment.
At Falls Village Veterinary Hospital, a Raleigh, NC veterinarian, dogs, cats & their families deserve the best. In fact, we specialize in delivering warm, compassionate care that reminds our clients and patients how unique and important they truly are. We provide complete veterinary care including dentistry, laser therapy, surgery, and more. Call us today!
