Differences Between Male and Female Cats

Differences Between Male and Female Cats

You know the biological differences between male and female cats, but you may wonder if one sex is better than the other when it comes to picking a new feline friend to join your family. Exploring the contrasts between strutting toms and purring moms may help you choose a cat that better fits your lifestyle and personality. So, should you get a male or a female cat? Let's first explore the difference between male and female cats before you can properly answer that question.

Which Sex Is Better Behaved?

Behavioral differences between male and female cats are most obvious in pets that are not neutered or spayed, since the behavioral differences usually are related to the cat's sex drive. For example, male cats may become more aggressive, spray urine and try to escape the house when they are in their sexually mature stage. However, female cats usually become more loving, and some tend to rub against almost everything while also being very vocal. Although the majority of non-neutered and non-spayed male and female cats have very distinctive behaviors, there is no consensus that all cats of either sex act a certain way. Some female cats spray while in heat, while some male cats have been known to be more affectionate. Most adoption centers strongly encourage pet parents to spay and neuter their cats. Kittens are definitely cute, but you should focus on raising one at a time before letting your fur baby bring you a whole new litter of mouths to feed.

According to a study of over 1,000 cat owners by the University of California Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, the breed or color of your cat might actually be a better indicator of personality, reports The Sacramento Bee. Cats with tortoise shell coats, for example, are known to be feisty and energetic. However, most cat owners and vets will tell you that choosing a cat based on sex or color won't guarantee you will get either a cuddly kitty or an independent cat. The environment a cat is raised in and the personality of the pet parent can often influence behavior more than genetics will.

Maine coon playing with orange cat toy on ground.

A+ for Appearance

Cat breeds are often harder to distinguish than dog breeds. Your future kitty could have a mix of traits, a distinctive color, and a long or short coat. Like most mammals, male cats of any breed tend to be a little larger in size than their female counterparts. However, in general terms, both male and female cats tend to weigh between 6 to 12 pounds and stand about 8 to 10 inches high. The type of food you feed your cat, the amount of exercise he or she gets, and overall health will have a great effect on his or her appearance.

Choosing a cat solely on appearance isn't ideal. If you are looking to bring a new cat into your home, visit an adoption center that has a wide variety of cat ages, breeds and personalities. Many centers offer a web page with pictures of kitties you can peruse before visiting, and shelter staff can give you insight into the cat's background. When meeting a cat for the first time, sit near the cat and wait for him or her to come to you. Let the cat rub and bump against you for a little before making contact. And always allow yourself some time with several different cats before making a final decision.

Should I Get a Male or Female Cat?

The truth is that the sex of the cat really doesn't matter when it comes to choosing the purrfect pet for you. Although there are some behavioral differences between male and female cats as they grow from kittens to adults, a cat's genetics and environment play a bigger role in how well the two of you will bond. So take the time to meet a few cats and pick the one that you think will be your best friend. Male and female cat differences should only play a small role in choosing a cat.