There are many theories on how cat gender makes all the difference in the world when it comes attitude, affection, behavior and health. Truth be told? While there are come common differences, you shouldn’t make your selection based on gender alone. So, when it comes to male cats and female cats… what should you actually consider before making a decision?
Behavioral Differences:
Cats are cats, male or female, if they’re spayed and neutered. While certain temperament differences may sometimes play a role, there’s no actual proven theory that says one is more affection or friendly than the other. The main differences only consistently apply when cats aren’t spayed or neutered. In these situations, when female cats go into heat in their first year of life, they’re often very vocal, very restless, and unusually affectionate. Male cats who aren’t neutered are often very aggressive, very territorial, and have a high tendency to roam (in search of a mate).
Otherwise, if a cat is spayed or neutered, they’re likely to sleep most of the day (up to 20 out of 24 hours), and spend their other time grooming, eating, and watching the world go by – male or female. There is a rumor that male cats are often a little friendlier than female cats, and that female cats, in general, are more stand-offish. It’s important to note that there are many factors that go into this assumption, and that there’s no scientific or proven evidence behind it.
Health Differences
Male and female cats share several of the same health concerns, but have a few differing issues that are noteworthy. Both have a susceptibility to urinary tract infections, usually caused by a dirty litter box, a lack of fluids in the diet, or a cat’s tendency to “hold it” for whatever reason. Though both experience these infections, they’re often more dangerous to males, to whom urinary tract issues can be life threatening.
Male cats are also more susceptible to reproductive disorders such as cryptorchidism, testicular tumors and prostate disease. Female cats are susceptible to infections of the uterus, and mammary complications, such as cancer or enlargement.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that there are other things to consider besides male or female when you’re looking into adopting or buying a cat. Genetics, species temperament, and age will tell you much more about the type of cat you’re getting than the reproductive parts that it has. Interact with the cat you’re interested in, see how friendly and affectionate he or she is, check into health concerns based on genetics and species, and make an educated decision based on those facts.
Unless you’re planning on keeping your cat un-spayed or un-neutered, we wouldn’t give too much consideration to the “boy cat” versus “girl cat” dilemma.
