The 'Feline Five': An exploration of personality in pet cats (Felis catus).

ABSTRACT: The idea of animals possessing personalities was once dismissed by the scientific community, but has since gained traction with evidence for potential application to improve captive animal management and welfare. Although domestic cats are popular companion animals, research has tended to overlook the value of personality assessment for management and care of pet cats. The aim of this study was to investigate personality in a large sample of pet cats with a view to understanding practical implications for pet cats in the home. Personality of 2,802 pet cats, from South Australia and New Zealand, was rated by their owners utilising a survey measuring 52 personality traits. Five reliable personality factors were found using principal axis factor analysis: Neuroticism, Extraversion, Dominance,

SUBMITTER: Litchfield CA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5568325 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature