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 furry friend to join your family. Exploring the contrasts between strutting toms and purring queens 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.

Which Sex Is Better Behaved?

Behavioural differences between male and female cats are most obvious in cats that are not neutered or spayed, since the behavioural differences are usually related to the cat's hormones. 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 in heat can become more affectionate, tend to rub against almost everything, and can also become more vocal. Although the majority of intact (non-neutered or spayed) cats have very distinctive behaviours, 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 centres strongly encourage pet parents to spay and neuter their cats. Kittens are definitely cute but you should discuss if spaying or neutering is right for your pet before you end up with a new litter of kittens.  

People often assume certain personality traits in cats based on things like breed or coat colour, as found in a survey by the University of California Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. People characterised orange cats as more friendly, for example, and black or white cats were considered more antisocial. However, most cat owners and vets will tell you that choosing a cat based on sex or colour won't guarantee you will get a cuddly kitty or an independent cat. The environment a cat is raised in and the personality of the pet parent can often influence behaviour more than genetics will.