Admin / 18 – March – 2024 – Understanding the Difference between Male and Female Cats
Male or female? For some cat lovers, choosing the sex of the cat is an important consideration in choosing a pet. There is some assumption that male cats are more affectionate, while female cats are more independent. However, are all these assumptions true? Let’s discuss the differences between male and female cats.
Male vs Female Cat Identification
- Genitals: The basic difference lies in the genitals. Male cats have a penis, while female cats have a vulva.
- Size: Generally, male cats have a larger body size than female cats.
- Coat and Color: Male cats may have longer and shinier fur than female cats. Color patterns can also make a difference, with some patterns being less common in female cats.
- Face: Male cats tend to have larger faces and broader cheeks than females.
- Lifespan: Female cats generally have a longer life span than male cats.
Differences in Temperament and Behavior
- Roaming Tendency: Male cats tend to prefer roaming away from home due to their hormonal drive to find a mate. On the other hand, female cats tend to stay or roam around the house.
- Aggressiveness: Unspayed male cats are more aggressive towards other male cats, especially in fighting over territory or mates.
- Oestrus: Unspayed female cats tend to exhibit specific behaviors during their breeding cycle. With sterilization, these behaviors can be eliminated.
- Territory Marking: Both male and female cats have a tendency to urinate indiscriminately to mark territory. Sterilization can reduce this behavior.
Male vs Female Cats
Pros of Male Cats
- More Affectionate: Male cats are often very affectionate and love to cuddle.
- Playful: They tend to maintain a cheerful demeanor throughout their lives.
- Relaxed: Male cats are generally more relaxed and adaptable to change.
Disadvantages of Male Cats
- Prefers Indiscriminate Peeing: Unspayed male cats tend to prefer to pee haphazardly to mark territory.
- Prefers to Roam: Unspayed male cats have a stronger desire to explore and find mates.
Advantages of Female Cats
- No Territory Marking: Spayed female cats are less likely to mark their territory.
- Less Aggressive: In general, female cats are less aggressive than male cats.
- Adaptable: Female cats are more adaptable to changes in their environment.
Disadvantages of Female Cats
- Possibility of Pregnancy: If not sterilized, female cats can become pregnant, so we must also take care of the children.
- More Independent: Some female cats may be more independent and less cuddly.