Did You Know? Cats Prefer Non-Cat People! Here’s Why!

Sorry to break it to you, but if you are trying to win over a cat, claiming you are a “dog person” might actually work in your favor!

Yes, cats prefer non-cat people! It may seem surprising, considering the common belief that cats are independent and aloof animals. However, there are fascinating reasons behind this preference. Want to know more about the relationships between cats and their human companions? Keep on reading below.

The Study of Cats and Non-Cat People

A 2022 UK study published in Nature.com examined how cats reacted to different people using 100 adoptable, neutered cats and 119 adults aged 18 to 75. In a shelter setting, each cat was placed in a comfortable room with hiding spots.

A chair for the participant was positioned near the door, away from the cats’ comfort areas. Two GoPro cameras recorded the interactions as participants were instructed to remain seated and engage with the cats without picking them up.

Most cats participated in three 5-minute sessions with different people, with enough spacing for their comfort. Researchers measured how much attention the participants solicited from the cats, and where and how long they touched or petted them.

The results were then categorized by demographics, including participants’ experience with cats, ownership history, and self-assessed knowledge about cats.

What Did the Study Discover?

The results were surprising for cat lovers but not for cats themselves. Participants with the most cat experience often sought attention and touched “red” zones like the base of the tail and tummy, with some older participants picking up the cats despite rules against it, leading to less friendly interactions.

In contrast, those with the least experience had happier encounters, allowing cats to approach them and primarily petting safer areas like the cheeks and under the chin, which made the cats more comfortable and willing to engage.

So, Why Do Cats Like Non-Cat People?

Cats are both predators and prey, so they don’t form friendships quickly; they need to assess whether someone poses a threat. Any aggressive behavior, even if well-meaning, can scare a cat that doesn’t know you. Cats prefer to feel in control and need the option to escape if they feel uncomfortable.

Experienced cat owners may forget this, as their own cats allow behaviors that would be risky in the wild. They often overlook that new cats are meeting them for the first time and must earn trust.

In contrast, less experienced people tend to be more cautious and give cats time to assess them, allowing the cat to take the lead in interactions, which fosters a better connection.

Is Anyone Excluded?

An exception in the study included people who work with cats and other animals. Their more educated background led them to interact in ways that allowed cats to take the lead, suggesting that even experienced cat owners can still learn new approaches to interacting with cats.

Are you a cat person yourself?

You might also want to read: Do Dogs Love You More Than Cats? Study Finds Out!