Is your cat’s quirk just cute — or a sign of something more?
Could breed have a hand in shaping not just personality, but also how a cat’s behaviour changes over time?
Every cat has its quirks, the way one might claim the sunniest spot on the couch while another prefers a quiet nook in the closet.
But beyond these charming idiosyncrasies lies a question many cat lovers wonder: could breed have a hand in shaping not just personality, but also how a cat’s behaviour changes over time?
When it comes to feline temperament, Royal Canin’s scientific communication manager and veterinarian, Dr Dylan Choy, compared it to human individuality.
“Behaviour is a lot like personality, it can be very individual,” she said in an interview with Sinar Daily.
However, even small changes in a cat’s routine or behaviour can signal more than just a change in mood. Royal Canin's SEA scientific communication and scientific affairs lead and veterinarian, Dr Rio Aditya Setiawan, explained that shifts in a cat’s behaviour are often linked to its health.
He said a normally active cat might suddenly become lethargic or one that loves cuddles might start avoiding touch. Likewise, a playful cat may begin sleeping far more than usual, patterns that can be seen across all breeds.
When it comes to breed tendencies, Dr Rio mentioned that Royal Canin studies health predispositions alongside behaviour.
“For example, British Shorthairs are more prone to heart-related issues and long-haired breeds may be more susceptible to skin problems, leading to more scratching. But overall, any cat can experience illness or stress,” he told Sinar Daily.
Dr Dylan agreed that stress-related behaviours can sometimes align with breed traits.
“For instance, Ragdolls are often seen as gentle and good with children, while Bengals are more active and energetic. However, this is not a strict rule. Not all Ragdolls are affectionate and not all Bengals are high-energy.
“It comes down to both nature and nurture. So before adopting, owners should research breeds, think about their household situation and consider whether they have children or other pets,” she said.
One piece of advice Dr Dylan felt was often overlooked?
“Visit a vet before getting a cat. You can ask about what you need to prepare. From vaccinations to the differences between kitten and adult diets and how often to schedule vet visits.”
“Ideally, cats should have an annual check-up. For cats aged seven and above, check-ups every six months are recommended. Because cats are so good at hiding symptoms, by the time signs are visible, the illness might already be advanced.
“Owning a cat is more than just providing food and a litter box, it requires ongoing care,” Dr Dylan reminded.
Beyond veterinary care, Dr Rio pointed out the value of reputable breeders as a source of behavioural insight. He said that responsible breeders can give insights into the behaviour of specific kittens and the temperament of the parents often reflects in their offspring.
Dr Dylan added that Royal Canin works with breeders who put equal care into matching cats with the right homes.
“They even assess whether someone can provide a good environment for the cat. Ethical breeders take their work seriously, sometimes planning breeding sessions in great detail and ensuring the cats live in excellent conditions, sometimes better than humans.
“Some people commented that breeding could be harmful if not done properly, as it might shorten the cats’ lifespan. But if it is done ethically, it is not a problem. Ethical breeding and responsible pet ownership go hand in hand,” she said.
In the end, while breed may offer clues about tendencies and health predispositions, the story of each cat is written just as much by its environment, care and the attention its humans give to the smallest shifts in behaviour.
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