Tag: Cat Personality Traits

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Ernest Hemingway, the renowned author of literary classics such as “The Old Man and the Sea” and “A Farewell to Arms,” was not only known for his masterful prose but also for his deep love of feline companions. The story behind Hemingway’s cats is as intriguing as his novels, weaving together history, whimsy, and a touch of eccentricity.

A Literary Giant with A Feline Flair

Hemingway’s feline affinity dates back to the 1930s when he lived in Key West, Florida. Legend has it that a ship’s captain gifted him a six-toed cat (a polydactyl) named Snow White, marking the beginning of his love affair with these unique felines. These cats, often referred to as “Hemingway cats,” possessed extra toes (6 or more) resembling miniature snowshoes or mittens with a “thumb” on their paws.

Polydactyl cats are not a “breed.”
This unusual paw trait can appear in any feline breed.

Hemingway Home and Museum: A Polydactyl Haven

Today, the historic Hemingway Home and Museum has approximately 60 free-roaming polydactyl cats, many descendants of Hemingway’s original, beloved felines. Lovingly cared for by the museum staff, these cats have become integral to the attraction, enchanting visitors with their charm and distinctive (and extra) digits.

While only half of cats have polydactyl paws (typically on their front feet, but sometimes on their back feet), all cats carry the congenital gene mutation in their DNA, making it possible to mother or father kittens with six or more toes. Polydactyl cats are pretty common; if one parent carries this mutation, there is a 50% chance the kittens will inherit it.

The presence of these unusual-pawed cats is an ongoing nod to Hemingway’s enduring legacy and his fondness for these unique creatures.

Purr-sonalities and Paw-sibilities

Each of Hemingway’s cats has its distinct personality, adding to the allure of the museum experience. From curious explorers to aloof loungers, these feline residents delight visitors with their antics and charm. Some cats have even gained celebrity status, with names like Archibald MacLeish, Gertrude Stein, and Pablo Picasso, paying homage to Hemingway’s literary circle of famous people.
Each of Hemingway’s cats has its distinct personality, adding to the allure of the museum experience. From curious explorers to aloof loungers, these feline residents delight visitors with their antics and charm. Some cats have even gained celebrity status, with names like Archibald MacLeish, Gertrude Stein, and Pablo Picasso, paying homage to Hemingway’s literary circle of famous people.

A Legacy of Love and Literature

Beyond being the museum’s mascots, Hemingway’s cats symbolize the author’s enduring legacy and connection to Key West. Their presence reminds us of the quieter moments in his life away from the spotlight of literary acclaim.

In addition to their historical significance, Hemingway’s cats inspire visitors and admirers worldwide, fostering a sense of wonder and whimsy that transcends generations. As author and cat enthusiast Neil Gaiman once said, “A house is not a home without a cat,” indeed, Hemingway’s cats have made the Hemingway Home and Museum a place of warmth, hospitality, and feline charm.

One of Hemingway’s Cats at the Hemingway Home and Museum (Image Courtesy: HemingwayHome.com)

7 Amazing Facts about Polydactyl Cats

If you find yourself in Key West, visit the Hemingway Home and Museum and experience the magic of Hemingway’s cats for yourself. Whether you’re a literary enthusiast, a cat lover, or simply seeking a unique and memorable adventure, the museum offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest writers, all through the “purr-spective” of his beloved feline companions. Images of these famous felines can also be seen on the official website.

Another famous polydactyl cat named Paddles. A rescue cat adopted by NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and referred to as the “First Cat” after Ardern took office.


(By Unknown, Original publication: Unknown Immediate Source: tinyurl.com/PaddlesThePolydactyl,

Fair use: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paddles_(cat)).

Whether it’s Hemingway’s felines or your own family cat, feline grooming takes patience and the best tools for sensitive skin, like the EasyGroomer!

Sweeten the moment with your favorite feline with a tasty kitty treat like these chewy cat treats (and add a pinch of catnip for some extra love from your cat)!

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Welcome to our third – and final – post in the series about 7 common cat traits!

If you missed the earlier posts of our “7 Common Cat Traits” series, here they are:

Part One: December 30 Covering:

  • The 7 Common Cat Traits & their Importance
  • How Traits Define a Cat’s Needs
  • The Feline’s 2 Behavioral Traits: Excessive Grooming & Litterbox Issues

Part Two: January 10 Covering the Cat Traits of:

  • Activity & Playfulness
  • Fearfulness
  • Aggression Towards Humans

Next, let’s look at the remaining 2 feline personality traits:

  • Sociability towards humans,
  • Sociability towards cats, and

discuss which specific cat breeds are most prone to these two traits.

1. Cat Traits: Sociability towards Humans

The Maine Coon has a social cat trait
Courtesy: ClaudiaWollesen / Pixabay

While many cats act standoffish with humans, 10 feline breeds are known to be the friendliest!

According to Pumpkin Pet Insurance, these social feline breeds are the:

  • Maine Coon
    Nicknamed “America’s Cat” and the gentle giants of the felines. They love other cats, people, children and dogs.
  • Siamese
    Known as the “people’s cat” according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association. Inquisitive and loving.
  • Abyssinian
    Sometimes called The Aby, loves family, social and loyal although they don’t like to be lap cats.
  • Ragdoll
    Loves small spaces, adults and children and other cats and dogs.
  • Sphynx
    Outgoing with adults, children, pets and dogs. Love to be the center of attention!

(Click on the link above for the other five breeds with social cat traits!)

The Sphynx has a very social cat trait
Courtesy: Dehogman / Pixabay

While these feline breeds are known to be friendly and social, remember, each cat is different with its own unique preferences!

Talk to an expert about a specific cat before adoption to make sure they are a good match when it comes to their social tendencies!

“Male cats are often more friendly than female cats,” says Susan Saffron, Founder of the National Association of Pet Rescue Professionals.

2. Cat Traits: Sociability towards Cats

Finally, let’s look at the best breeds that get along with other cats!

Courtesy: Dmitry Tsapenko / Pixabay

CAUTION: Not all cats will socialize with other cats.

If you have your heart set on a multi-feline household, look for breeds that are social, even-tempered, non-territorial and adaptable.

According to Vicki Jo Harrison, the president of the International Cat Association, the best breeds for a multi-cat home include 20 breeds:

  • Abyssinian.
  • Bengal.
  • Birman.
  • Bombay.
  • British Shorthair.

(Click on the link above for the other 15 best cats for a multi-cat home!)

Read the entire research paper from the University of Helsinki here!
“Reliability and Validity of Seven Feline Behavior and Personality Traits.”

We hope you’ve enjoyed this in-depth look at the common cat traits!

Courtesy: Cornelazar / Pixabay

A Final Reminder about Cat Traits!

Remember, before adopting a new kitten or cat, consider the feline’s breed and associated traits (breed-related genetics). Make sure you are truly willing to live with those traits throughout your cat’s life.

“For a happy relationship with your cat, go beyond the looks and make your pick based on demonstrated breed behavior.”

Benjamin & Lynette Hart, Experts in Animal Communication & Behavior

A tabby cat being brushed with an EquiGroomer tool
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

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Cats LOVE the EasyGroomer because the blade mimics a cat’s tongue!

Whether you want the individual cat grooming tool or the fun Cat Gift Bag, you can enhance quality one-on-one grooming time with your favorite feline!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

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In our December 30th blog, we explored the new research
which reveals 7 common cat traits! Understanding your cat’s traits is critical when it comes to fulfilling your cat’s needs.

Today’s blog will discuss three of the five cat personality traits, the specific breeds who are most prone to these personality traits and how the cat parent can encourage or discourage these traits.

Remember, before adopting a new kitten or cat, honestly consider the feline’s
breed and associated traits from “breed-related genetics.”

Are you willing to live with those inherited traits?

Cat Jumping in the Air for a Toy
Courtesy: Karsten Paulick / Pixabay

1. Common Cat Traits: Activity and Playfulness

Certain feline breeds love being active and playful including the Bengal and Abyssinian followed by the:

  • Siamese.
  • Oriental.
  • Cornish Rex.

The DVM360 found that “male cats far outranked females in being more outgoing, affectionate and playful.”

In contrast, the Persian, Exotic Shorthair and Ragdoll are relatively inactive breeds.

Keep in mind, these are guidelines. Each cat will have its own preferences for activity and playfulness.

But you can encourage a lazy cat to play more with these tips.

Gray Cat Sleeping in a Vertical Nest
Courtesy: Marjoleiny / Pixabay
  • Have plenty of toys your cat loves and rotate them to encourage more play.
  • Engage in quality playtime with your cat every day.
  • Engage your cat’s hunting instincts with battery-operated toys.
  • Use food puzzles to encourage your cat’s engagement.
  • Add a more active cat or kitten as a playmate.
  • Create a stimulating environment with vertical spaces especially near windows:
    • Perches.
    • Cat Trees.
    • Suspended catwalks.

But what if your cat is too active and even destructive? The tips below can help your cat chill out!

Playing Kittens Around Scratching Posts
Courtesy: 12222786 / Pixabay
  • Ensure enough one-on-one playtime daily.
  • Redirect hyper-activity to an acceptable behavior like chasing a toy or playing with an empty box.
  • Offer your cat outdoor experiences to relieve “cabin fever.” For example:
  • Proactively address any boredom your cat may be feeling with:
    • Toys and food puzzles.
    • Extra play and exercise.
    • Scratching posts.
    • Another cat.
  • Consider feline nutraceuticals and/or a calming collar.

According to Homes Alive Pets,
“cats need between 30-60 minutes of activity … each day …
depending on age and health conditions.”
Just like with dogs, a tired cat is a happy cat!

2. Common Cat Traits: Fearfulness

According to Veterinary Scientist and Research Author, Hannes Lohi of the University of Helsinki, “the most fearful (cat) breed was the Russian Blue, while the Abyssinian was the least fearful.”

Interestingly, DVM360.com says,
“females far outrank males in being more aggressive and fearful.”

Gray Cat Looking Fearful
Courtesy: Ihtar / Pixabay

Living with a fearful cat can be challenging. Fearful or anxious cats may act out aggressively so try the tips below.

  • Give them their own space to hide and relax.
  • Stay calm and keep a consistent routine.
  • Never push a fearful cat outside its comfort zone.
  • Introduce new pets, people or changes in the home slowly.
  • Try a pheromone plug-in, diffuser or spray to calm your cat.

3. Common Cat Traits: Aggression Towards Humans

White and Yellow Cat (Turkish Van) Peeking Around Curtain
Courtesy: Pasi Mammela / Pixabay

Certain cat breeds tend to be more aggressive towards humans including the:

  • Bengal.
  • Abyssinian.
  • Turkish Van (pictured on the right).
  • Siamese.

The Ragdoll ranks low for aggression along with the Sphynx, Burmese and Maine Coon.

Never encourage aggressive behavior! But how can you discourage aggressive cat behavior?

Feline aggression can come from boredom and/or pent-up energy. Follow the tips above to help your cat positively deal with his boredom and excess energy through daily play and mental stimulation and enrichment.

If these tips do not make a difference in your cat’s aggression, look for the triggers causing your cat to act aggressively. Removing these triggers, avoiding pushing your cat beyond his comfort zone and enough activity and interaction should help reduce your cat’s desire to aggressively strike out.

If any negative behavior(s) continue despite your best efforts, rule out any medical issues (including stress and anxiety) with your veterinarian
and consult a certified feline behaviorist.

(Note: The remaining 2 personality cat traits will be covered in our next blog. So, subscribe to our blog (in the lower right-hand column) to
receive notifications!)

Cat Gift Bag
Courtesy: EquiGroomer

Cats challenged with aggression or fear can be helped to calm down with regular brushing.

Enhance your bond and quality time with your favorite feline with the EquiGroomer EasyGroomer Tools!

Don’t miss our Cat Gift Bag too! All bags include a Shedding Brush, Laser Pointer and Cat Toy!

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Posted on by equigroomerllc

According to new research,
the feline personality has just 7 common cat traits!

4,316 Cat Parents ~ 138 Questions ~ 26 Feline Breeds = 7 Feline Traits

7 Common Cat Traits

Courtesy: Scott Payne / Pixabay

Earlier this year, researchers at the University of Helsinki defined 7 common cat traits in the most extensive and significant research done to date.

FIVE Personality Traits

  • Activity and playfulness.
  • Fearfulness.
  • Aggression towards humans.
  • Sociability towards humans.
  • Sociability towards cats.

TWO Behavioral Traits

  • Litter box issues including inappropriate elimination; and
  • Excessive grooming.

Keep reading to learn what else they found out about your cat’s traits!

Cat Traits: Why are They Important?

All Cats Have 2 Common Traits
Courtesy: Aleksandr Tarlokov / Pixabay

The most critical reason behind understanding feline traits is their direct connection to problematic cat behaviors.

By clearly understanding these common cat traits, potential cat parents can fully understand what they are getting into when adopting a specific cat breed.

In addition, knowledge about these cat traits will:

  1. Improve a cat’s overall welfare.
  2. Provide answers to unwanted feline behaviors; and
  3. Help identify potential genetic and environmental issues.

There were also “significant differences observed between cat breeds.”

Common Cat Traits Define their Needs
Courtesy: Desha / Pixabay

Traits Define Cat’s Needs

Like all living beings, felines possess fully-formed personality traits which also define the cat’s needs.

It’s important to realize when a cat’s specific needs (i.e., personality traits) go unfulfilled, negative behaviors may begin to develop, emerge and worsen.

Next, let’s take a deeper look into the two common behavioral cat traits.

(Note: The other 5 personality cat traits will be covered in future blogs, so subscribe to our blog (in the lower right-hand column) to receive notifications when these blogs (and others) are published!)

Two Common Behavioral Traits

These common traits include:

  • Litter box issues; and
  • Excessive grooming.

When choosing a new kitty to add to your home,
it’s critical to take into consideration their breed and associated traits
“influenced by breed-related genetics.”

Ask yourself, will I be able to live with these cat traits?
Keep in mind, inherited traits may be resistant to behavioral modification.

Litter Box Issues

Bengal Cats Share Common Cat Traits
Courtesy: Irina Kukuts / Pixabay

While all cats can exhibit occasional issues with the litterbox, there are specific breeds who are more prone to bathroom issues including the:

  • Persian.
  • Bengal.
  • Manx.

Inappropriate urine spraying (aka marking) is also more common with the:

  • Bengal.
  • Sphynx.
  • Cornish Rex.
  • Ragdoll.
  • Burmese.

To encourage these breeds to use their litter boxes:

  • Keep all litter boxes and the surrounding area clean with daily cleaning.
  • Experiment with different types and textures of litter to find one your cat likes.
  • Make sure your cat can easily and comfortably get in and out of the litter box.
  • Ensure you have enough litter boxes for the number of cats in your home. PetMD recommends “the same number of litter boxes as the number of cats, plus one extra box.” Also, if you have a multi-level home, experts also recommend at least one litter box on each level in a private area (even if you have one cat!).

If the behavior continues, rule out any medical issues (including stress and anxiety) with your veterinarian and/or a local certified behaviorist.

VetStreet: Most Common Cat Potty Problems Solved!

Excessive Grooming

Siamese Cats are Prone to Excessive Grooming Trait
Courtesy: Adina Vlicu / Pixabay

Excessive grooming is commonly found in certain breeds “due to their sensitive and attention-demanding dispositions.”

  • Siamese.
  • Abyssinian.
  • Burmese.
  • Himalayan.

If you own one of the above breeds, try to stop their overgrooming with these tips:

  • Rule out any medical issues including infections or allergies.
  • Maintain a predictable schedule to reduce any feline stress.
  • Add more mental and physical stimulation and quality one-on-one time.
  • Try cat calming products and/or medications or nutraceuticals.

(Note: The other 5 personality cat traits will be covered in future blogs,
so subscribe to our blog (in the lower right-hand column) to receive notifications when these blogs (and others) are published!)

The EquiGroomer Cat Gift Bag
Courtesy: EquiGroomer.com

No matter what feline breed shares
your life, your cat will love being
brushed with the pain-free
EquiGroomer EasyGroomer Tools!

Don’t miss our Cat Gift Bag too!

All bags include a Shedding Brush, Laser Pointer and Cat Toy!

For individual or bulk orders, call 860-573-0604 or click here to send us an email.

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