The Science of Cat Personality
Understanding the Feline Five research model and how PurrJung brings personality typing to life
What is the Feline Five?
The Feline Five is a scientifically validated model of cat personality developed by researchers at the University of South Australia. Based on a study of over 2,800 cats, the research identified five core personality dimensions that describe feline behavior.
Published in the journal PLOS ONE, this research provides the scientific foundation for understanding that cats, like humans, have distinct and measurable personality traits.
The Five Personality Dimensions
1. Neuroticism
High: Anxious, fearful, shy, insecure, suspicious
Low: Calm, confident, stable, trusting, self-assured
2. Extraversion
High: Curious, playful, active, smart, inventive
Low: Reserved, passive, aimless, less engaged
3. Dominance
High: Assertive, territorial, competitive with other cats
Low: Submissive, peaceful, friendly with other cats
4. Impulsiveness
High: Erratic, unpredictable, reactive, reckless
Low: Predictable, calm, methodical, constrained
5. Agreeableness
High: Affectionate, friendly, gentle, cooperative
Low: Solitary, aloof, irritable, independent
Feline Five vs PurrJung's 16 Types
| Aspect | Feline Five | PurrJung 16 Types |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Scientific research | Fun personality discovery |
| Dimensions | 5 continuous scales | 4 dichotomies → 16 types |
| Output | Scores on each dimension | Memorable type (e.g., "ENFP") |
| Best For | Clinical assessment | Understanding & sharing |
| Questions | 52 items | 32 questions |
How the Models Relate
While the Feline Five is designed for scientific research, PurrJung takes inspiration from personality psychology to create an engaging way for cat owners to understand their pets. Here's how our dimensions map conceptually:
E/I (Energy)
Related to Extraversion and Agreeableness
S/N (Perception)
Related to Extraversion (curiosity aspect)
T/F (Decision)
Related to Agreeableness and Dominance
J/P (Lifestyle)
Related to Impulsiveness
Why Both Approaches Matter
Scientific Foundation
The Feline Five proves that cat personality is real, measurable, and matters for their wellbeing.
Accessible & Fun
PurrJung makes personality discovery enjoyable and shareable, encouraging owners to think deeply about their cats.
Better Understanding
Both approaches help owners understand that every cat is unique, leading to better care and stronger bonds.
Scientific Reference
The Feline Five model is based on peer-reviewed research:
Litchfield, C. A., Quinton, G., Tindle, H., Chiera, B., Kikillus, K. H., & Roetman, P. (2017). The 'Feline Five': An exploration of personality in pet cats (Felis catus). PLOS ONE, 12(8), e0183455.Read the full research paper
Ready to discover your cat's personality type?
Take the Free Cat Personality Test