A recent debate on X has caught our attention: should disliking cats be considered a dating red flag? We think it absolutely should! A dislike of animals is generally considered a red flag because it's reflective of a wider lack of empathy, but a targeted dislike of cats might indicate that your partner is more controlling.
While dogs are considered man’s best friend, cats have long been viewed as symbols of femininity.
Once revered by the Egyptians for their grace and agility, before being vilified alongside women during the witch trials, their unparalleled level of independence continues to produce mixed reactions from delight to outrage. But why is this a red flag?
Typically, narcissistic individuals are more likely to prefer dogs because they are easier to train and control, and there’s less room for miscommunication.
While dogs are overly affectionate and make their needs known, cats tend to be more subtle in the way they communicate, which can be misread as indifference or a lack of affection.
Their self-sufficiency can also be intimidating, as while a dog unintentionally goes out of their way to make you feel needed, a cat will choose to leave if you fail to provide for them.
This translates into communication issues between men and women in the contemporary dating world.
A dog owner is used to experiencing blind obedience and constant affection, while a cat owner is likely to have more respect for their pet's freedom and boundaries.
My parents have a male chocolate Labrador and a female black cat, and watching them gave me a clear crash course on interactions between men and women.
While the lab constantly demands attention, the cat eventually swipes at him because she needs space.
Although cat ownership is increasing amongst men, these ideas are supported by the fact that cats largely prefer women because they are more likely to display higher levels of emotional intelligence when interacting with their pets.
One study in Budapest confirmed that women have a superior ability to understand the emotions and needs of their feline friends, as well as having a higher level of patience for typical cat behaviours.
Furthermore, the similarity between the sound of babies crying and cats miaowing adds a maternal layer of affection to the relationship dynamic between women and cats.
Cats can recognise and remember emotional support, and they are unlikely to forget it.
Unfortunately, this also means they can recall negative experiences, and because the veterinary profession has largely been dominated by men, some cats may have an ingrained fear of men.
Personally, I’m very happy to be an independent crazy cat lady! I will continue to run miles in the opposite direction of anyone who doesn’t like cats because I have no desire to be controlled by someone else.
If that’s not a red flag, I’m not sure what is.
Written by Leah Marie Cox
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