I’m always amazed to hear all domestic cats lumped into one big category of aloofness and independence. As with any member of the animal kingdom, each is unique in its own way.

Even while many specific feline breeds do show similar traits, differences between individuals remain. As myriad as their markings and colorings, a host of subtle and blatant personalities emerge from each tiny kitten.

Those lucky enough to be born into a place of comfort, with attentive mother and furry siblings, are taught certain basic aspects of feline behavior. Interestingly enough, even for those that lose their mothers and/or siblings at a tender age, the basics of cleanliness and hunting still somehow emerge. This is an exhibition of the instinctual nature of the species, and thus perhaps the category lumping that dogs their existence.

I presently have a litter of five kittens, born outside in the back of a truck. Left without their mother, the little ones were rescued and brought inside for socializing and grooming into pets. Three are male and two, female.

Of the five, one particular female shows ferocious hunting skills, defending her “prey” toy mouse from any sibling that dares come near to join in the game. The growls and yowling often bring me running, thinking that a fight is in progress, only to find this particular kitten hugging her mouse tightly with a littermate or two hovering nearby. The others have taken their revenge by trimming her beautiful white whiskers to stubs.

In my own household I have noticed a difference between adult males and females. I attribute this to the fact that females out of necessity are often great hunters, and therefore maybe a bit more territorial than their counterparts. As they have to feed and defend their kittens in the wild, it would seem a natural tendency.

Having only recently acquired a female Manx into my all male feline family, I was unprepared for the disruption this particular cat would cause. Being the youngest, I mistakenly assumed that she would be taught the order of established hierarchy by the big boys, and all would remain quiet. Boy was I wrong! She grew into adulthood and bossiness.

When Dodo, the alpha cat, recently died, Tweety saw her chance in the confusion left behind, and went for it. For months now I have awakened to find tufts of cat hair rolling around the house from the nightly conflicts. I am taken by surprise each time, as the battles are waged silently.

The victor is obvious, as she lies curled and purring next to me on the bed each morning. All the cats used to sleep with me, but not any more.

During the day, Tweety is a bit more blatant about her status, swatting the boys as they go by or get too close to something she views as hers. Is this the female or the Manx trait? I don’t know. Perhaps it’s both.

Here are a few personality generalities that have been reported regarding gender and/or coloring:

-Orange tabbies are generally male and are very sweet in nature. (All of mine have been thus.)

-Tortoiseshell and Calico cats are usually female and prefer to be “only” cats.

-Manx breeds make great mousers. (Tweety falls into this category.)

-Siamese and many black (which are part Siamese) are “needy” and vocal, bonding with their caregivers making great lap kitties.

-Abyssinians are extremely affectionate.

-Main Coons love laps.

The list goes on and on, so if you are looking for that perfect cat, with special attributes, I suggest researching online under “cat traits.” Of course, remember that each individual is just that. Breed aside your cat will be what your cat will be, much like our own children although decidedly easier and less expensive to raise.