Five Key Differences Between Male and Female Cats

You already know that there are huge differences between male and female humans. This is something that also applies to other species as there are clearly differences in the behavior of males and females with most types of animals. When someone decides to welcome a cat into their home, they usually have a preference for which sex they would like. While in some cases this is because of existing pets they have at home, for others, it is purely down to the gender differences. This is because there are significant differences between male and female cats, meaning that some owners are better-suited to males and others are a better match for female cats. So, what are some of the key differences between male and female cats?

1. Mating

Hormones play a big part in the behavior of cats, so a male that is not neutered will often have a strong desire to reproduce and this can make them aggressive in their attempts to find a mate. They will not want to stay indoors and will use tactics to make sure they get outdoors to meet potential mates. If they come across rival males while roaming in their search for a mate, they will fight to show that they are the dominant male. Female cats are a different ball game to male cats, just like their human counterparts. An unneutered female cat has a desire to mate and will vocalize loudly when attempting to attract a mate. Once a female cat is neutered, her behavior will change, and the changes are more significant than those between a neutered and unneutered male cat. A neutered cat no longer goes into heat and this means they do not present themselves or vocalize any more.

2. Territory Marking

A male cat that is not neutered will spray to mark their territory. The behavior of a male cat changes once they have been neutered as it impacts on their hormone levels and they no longer have a desire to reproduce. They may also roam less and not have such a need to mark their territory. When they are outdoors, a female cat that is not neutered will also display specific behaviors. These can include marking their territory by either spraying or face marking. They might also run off any female rivals they come across who are on their territory. Most female cats remain territorial, despite being neutered. This means they will often have special spots that they do not want to share with others.

3. Behavior Towards Other Cats

A male cat is usually accepting and even loving of other cats once they have been neutered. This means they can cuddle up with or engage in horseplay with both male and female cats. They may even have a special bond with one cat that they live with or encounter regularly. A neutered female can become wary of strange cats and will prefer gentle play. Neutered female cats will also act differently towards male cats as they can enjoy cuddling up to them. If a female cat chooses a friend, it will usually be a male cat rather than a female cat. A further change is that a neutered female cat will become far more self-reliant than a male cat. Many neutered females retain their maternal instinct and are will show their maternal side to a litter, even if it is not their own.

4. Behavior Towards Their Owner

There are also positive changes in the behavior of a male cat towards humans after it has been neutered. They can become more loving and enjoy petting more. On the other hand, a neutered female cat often becomes warier of humans.

5. Sharing an Owner

While both male and female cats can bond with their owner equally well, regardless of whether they are neutered or not, there is a difference in their willingness to share the love of their owner. Male cats are better at sharing their owner than females and two males are usually happy to sit on their owner’s lap at the same time.

Overall, there are many differences between male and female cats and the differences can depend on whether the cat is neutered or not. Which you prefer is down to your personal preferences and may depend on whether you already have cats in your home with which you will want a new cat to bond.