Many people find cats adorable. They are cute and cuddly. They can also be great companions if you are lonely. However, not all cats are the same.
Persian cats are among the most sought-after breeds in the world. They are also known as one of the nicest breeds due to their gentle nature and affectionate personalities. However, these cats have also achieved fame in online memes for their grumpy-looking faces, which might have left you wondering – are Persian cats mean?
Persian cats are not inherently mean. Mostly, their personalities are no different from that of a typical cat. If you treat them with love, they will love you back. However, certain events can cause them to act up, such as overstimulation and territorial instinct.
If you are considering a Persian kitten to add to your family, we have put together everything you need to know about their loving temperament below.
What is the personality of a Persian cat?
Many cat fanciers are charmed by the exotic looks and regal bearing of Persian cats. As their name suggests, these beauties originated in Persia, which is now modern-day Iran. Persian cats are also well-known for their luxurious coats – they have silky, soft fur which has been intentionally bred to be thicker over the years. A Persian’s signature look also includes a rounded, flat face, big eyes, chubby cheeks, and a short muzzle.
While their faces might look perpetually angry, Persian cats are actually the sweetest, most affectionate of all cats. They love to be around their humans and will often follow you from room to room. Although they do not usually like being picked up too much, these kitties tend to enjoy being petted and cuddled by their owners.
Persian cats also have a reputation for being laid-back. They are not the type of cat one would expect to jump or run around the house non-stop. They do not enjoy being active as much as some other cat breeds. More often, you will find these kitties chilling on your sofa. So, if you are looking for a perfect lap cat, you might find one of these beauties the ideal companion!
Independence is another typical trait of a Persian cat. They are not very demanding, so if you are a busy individual, you can rest assured that your Persian will not mind being left alone at home.
Persian cats can be a little snobbish and aloof around people with whom they are not familiar. But, once you get to earn their trust, they will be happy to sit on your lap and cuddle with you.
Are Persian cats mean?
Due to their facial expressions, many people say that Persian cats look grumpy while others say they just look like they are concentrating on something else. However, you should never judge a cat by its appearance!
As mentioned, Persian cats are usually reserved and shy around strangers. Their introverted behavior can make them seem like they are not as cuddly as the other breeds. But, once they come out of their shell, these fluffy felines are the sweetest. Overall, they are affectionate cats and can become very attached to the humans they trust.
Persian cats are rarely mean. If your kitty is being unfriendly or showing negative behavior, there is probably a valid reason that you need to investigate. Remember that cats cannot express themselves in a language understandable to humans when they are struggling with pain, depression, fear, or discomfort.
Why is my Persian cat mean?
Sometimes, we perceive our cats as being mean based on certain behaviors. Thus, your first – and important – step is to determine whether your cat is being aggressive or is simply being a cat. Some of these common behavioral issues are:
1. Clawing your furniture
We have heard it many times – if a cat claws your furniture, they are showing aggression. But these claims are often not true. Sometimes, a cat has got to do what a cat has got to do, and that includes sharpening their claws to keep them healthy and shiny. It is similar to humans getting a pedicure for health and hygiene purposes.
However, if your Persian experiences bullying or is trying to be dominant around other cats in the household, they will likely claw your expensive carpets and sofas to mark their territory. This is a form of aggression that can be hard to stop.
To protect your household items from being damaged, here is what you can do: First, consider trimming your cat’s nails to discourage scratching. This will also help keep their precious claws healthy and tidy.
Another tip is to redirect your cat’s natural instinct toward toys and scratching posts. Make sure to place their stuff strategically in areas where they usually hang out.
Lastly, consider sprinkling some catnip or spraying synthetic pheromones like Feliway on their toys and scratching posts. To protect your sofas and other furniture from your cat’s sharp claws, you can spray these items with a citrus mixture. Cats hate the strong scent of citrus; their extra sensitive muzzles should automatically discourage them from coming near your expensive furniture.
2. Urinating outside the litter box
Cats urinate outside of their litter box if they are feeling stressed, angry or territorial. It could be that your Persian feels threatened by other pets in your home, or they may have been spooked by something or someone like a sudden loud noise or family visitors.
Other signs that indicate that your cat might be experiencing stress are:
- Excessive grooming
- Hiding in closets and corners
- Excessive vocalization
The worse scenario behind this unwanted behavior is that your feline might be struggling with an underlying health issue, such as a urinary tract infection. Make sure to visit your vet right away if you notice this abrupt behavioral change, as these infections can be dangerous.
Lastly, cats can be finicky about their litter boxes. If you forget to clean their private toilet, they will most likely find another suitable place, such as your mattress or carpet, to do their business.
So, instead of judging your Persian kitty for being mean, consider investigating the potential causes behind their urinating issues. If your furry friend gets a clean bill of health, then your vet or cat behaviorist should be able to help you find the appropriate solutions to this behavioral problem.
3. Scratching or biting you for no reason
Persian cats have a tendency to scratch or bite people if they are feeling overstimulated or are not being handled in the right way.
For example, petting or stroking your cat for too long can trigger overstimulation. This reaction is normal for all cats, not just for Persians. However, new cat owners might perceive this as aggression, or assume their furry companion simply hates being petted.
Know that most cats might not be comfortable being held or petted for too long. Some of their body parts can be extra sensitive, too, such as their chest and belly. It is very important not to cross your kitty’s boundaries. Learn to pick up the clues as to when they have had enough of the petting. Otherwise, they might act up and bite or scratch you. Remember that cats are not being malicious when they do this – overstimulation triggers a natural reflex that is beyond their control!
How friendly are Persian cats?
As mentioned, Persian cats are generally not mean. However, they may also not be the type of cats that will voluntarily approach strangers and ask to be petted. Instead, you might find them a bit aloof and snobbish when introduced to a new person or pet for the first time. Once they are warmed up, though, you will be amazed at how quickly your Persian will curl up and sleep in a lap!
Keep in mind that Persians are loving, affectionate, and gentle cats. Their patience and laid-back nature make them good companions for everyone – even kids. If you have small children, this is an even more important quality because these cats can tolerate being carried around and cuddled.
With proper introduction, Persian cats should not have any problems getting along with other pets in the household, either. You might even find them sleeping with or grooming their furry housemates, which is kind of adorable!
Conclusion
Persian cats are often depicted as being mean and aloof due to their grumpy-looking faces. But in reality, they are more likely to be shy than aggressive!
If you have a Persian cat that is behaving aggressively, it may not be because you have a mean cat on your hands. Your feline friend might just have a shyness issue or is playing hard-to-get around people he barely knows. Early socialization and positive reinforcement often help to make your pet friendlier.
Medical issues are also a possible culprit if a cat is acting mean. Make sure to contact your vet right away should you notice a sudden shift in your Persian’s behavior, to rule out any nasty problems!
Image: istockphoto.com / Daria Kulkova