- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Cats come in different shapes, sizes, colors and personalities. They frequently are labeled “aloof” or “antisocial” when compared with dogs. You may have heard the joke, “A dog comes when you call him; a cat takes a message and gets back to you later.”
While it’s true that many cats prefer their solitude, there are those that crave cuddles from their humans. We’re taking a look at cuddly cats. Why are some more cuddly than others? How do you find a cuddler? Rover’s resident behavioral expert, Dr. Mikel Delgado, explains.
Why Are Some Cats Cuddly?
Cats display affection in a variety of ways. They might:
The amount of physical affection a cat wants depends on a variety of factors, including their personality, their environment, and how they were raised.
Experiences as a kitten
Delgado says a cat’s cuddliness is due in large part to socialization with humans when the cat is small.
“Were they given positive experiences with handling? Did they have opportunities to learn to trust humans? Were their wishes respected if they didn’t want to be cuddled?” Delgado asks.
People who foster litters of kittens regularly spend time touching them and petting them. This not only helps when the kittens need veterinary care but can also encourage them to engage in cuddling with their human.
Genetics and personality
Delgado says it’s also very likely that genetics play a role in how much cats enjoy being cuddled or handled. We know that other aspects of personality, such as confidence, are at least partly inherited—so it’s not hard to imagine cuddliness is too.
One study found that kittens with a friendly father grew up to be friendlier toward people compared with cats with a non-friendly father.
nukopic via iStock
Are Some Cat Breeds Cuddlier Than Others?
There is no evidence that cuddliness is a breed-specific trait. That said, some cat breeds tend to be more people-oriented, which may mean they’re more likely to enjoy a cuddle.
If you’d like a big puffy pillow of a cat, the Maine Coon could be a good choice. They are known to be calm, affectionate lappers.
Persians are relaxed and people-oriented. They can be chatty, with an adorable sing-song chirp.
The Ragdoll is also a calm kitty, with a soft and silky coat that is made for cuddling. Their even temper makes them a great family pet.
And despite their naked appearance, hairless cats like the Sphynx are cuddly. They’re known for their warmth, affection, and loyalty to their human companions. They are even sometimes described as being “doglike.”
How Can I Get a Cuddly Cat?
If you are adopting a kitten, there are no guarantees of cuddliness, but proper socialization can set them up to be friendly and happy.
How much a cat will enjoy cuddling with you as they grow may also be impacted by how you handle them. For example, do you respect their boundaries? Do you let them approach you first? And do you teach any children in your home to be gentle with them?
“These are things that will increase the likelihood that a cat will want to interact with you,” says Delgado.
Adopting a cuddly adult cat
While there’s really no way to predict what your cat will be like when you bring them home, you might consider adopting an adult cat whose personality is already established.
Delgado says if you are meeting an adult cat and they are cuddly in a shelter or previous home, they are more likely to be cuddly with you.
If you visit a cat at a shelter and they curl around your ankles, hop onto your lap, or give you a head butt, that can be a good indicator of an affectionate feline.
Many shelters have adopted the ASPCA’s Meet Your Match Feline-ality Adoption Program, a research-based program that pairs distinct Feline-alities with adopters whose personality and lifestyle fit them best.
Cats undergo an assessment to help predict how an individual cat (9 months and older) is likely to behave when the cat arrives at their new home. There are nine Feline-alities ranging from the active “Party Animal” and “Leader of the Band” to the “Sidekick” and “Personal Assistant” who enjoy spending time with their people.
If you’re looking for a cuddler, you may want to consider a “Love Bug,” a lap cat who likes pets, purrs, and togetherness.
gsermek via iStock
Why Is My Cat Cuddlier at Night?
You may find that your cat is more physically affectionate at certain times of the day, but Delgado says there is no definite answer as to why this is.
“It could be related to how sleepy they feel or if the temperature is warmer or cooler,” she says. “Many people report their cats are cuddlier when it’s cold, suggesting that cats seek us out for warmth.”
Cats may also be more likely to seek you out for cuddling when you are still, such as when you are in bed or settled down to watch TV.
Why Is My Cat Suddenly Cuddlier?
If your cat suddenly becomes more affectionate, there could be a number of reasons.
“Any significant change in behavior could indicate a medical issue—so make sure your cat isn’t showing any other serious changes, such as in appetite, litter box habits, activity, or general demeanor,” says Delgado.
Some cats will be affected by the ambient temperature or weather, as many cats are more prone to cuddling when it’s chilly.
Senior cats may become more affectionate because they feel vulnerable and want comfort and attention from you. They may also be experiencing hearing or vision loss or even cognitive dysfunction.
Your vet can help you rule out any medical issues so you can enjoy the cuddliness without worrying.
