Cats have long been regarded as mysterious, aloof, and independent creatures. While many people adore these qualities, others might argue that cats display traits akin to narcissism. Although labelling a cat as a “narcissist” might be a playful exaggeration, there are indeed elements of feline behaviour that closely align with classic narcissistic traits observed in humans. Let’s explore these characteristics and how they manifest in our feline friends.

Self-Centred Behaviour

One of the most recognisable traits of narcissism is a self-centred attitude, and cats certainly display this in abundance. Unlike dogs, who are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please, cats often seem more interested in their own comfort and desires. They choose when and where to interact with their owners, typically on their own terms. If a cat is not in the mood for attention, they will not hesitate to walk away or even swat at a hand that dares to pet them uninvited. This behaviour mirrors the narcissistic trait of putting oneself first, often to the exclusion of others.

The Need for Admiration

Narcissists crave admiration and validation, and cats are no different. They often seek out attention from their owners, whether it’s by rubbing against your legs, meowing for food, or positioning themselves in the middle of your work to demand attention. However, once they’ve had their fill of admiration, they may promptly lose interest, leaving you feeling as though your role was merely to serve their needs. This behaviour is typical of the narcissistic tendency to seek out attention when it suits them, but discard others when their needs have been met.

Lack of Empathy

A defining characteristic of narcissism is a lack of empathy, and this too can be seen in feline behaviour. Cats are known for their independent nature, and they often display little concern for the emotional state of their owners. While a dog might sense when their owner is upset and offer comfort, a cat is more likely to continue with their day, unaffected by the emotions of those around them. This lack of empathy, or at least the appearance of it, aligns with the narcissistic trait of being primarily concerned with oneself, rather than others.

Entitlement and Superiority

Cats often act as though they are the rulers of their domain, which is another hallmark of narcissism. They demand the best spots in the house, often taking over furniture and expecting to be fed and cared for on their schedule. Cats tend to exhibit a sense of entitlement, assuming that their needs should come before anyone else’s. This sense of superiority and entitlement is a key feature of narcissistic behaviour, where the individual believes they are inherently deserving of special treatment.

Manipulative Tactics

Narcissists are often skilled at manipulating those around them to get what they want, and cats have mastered this art as well. From using their charming purr to coax treats out of you to feigning disinterest only to lure you back in, cats know how to manipulate their environment and the people in it. This behaviour closely mirrors the narcissistic tendency to use charm or deceit to achieve their goals.

While it’s important to remember that cats are not human and therefore do not possess narcissistic personality disorder, their behaviours do share some interesting parallels with narcissistic traits. Cats’ self-centredness, need for admiration, lack of empathy, sense of entitlement, and manipulative tactics all contribute to their reputation as aloof and independent creatures. However, these traits are also what make cats so uniquely fascinating and beloved by their owners. So, while your cat may exhibit some narcissistic tendencies, it’s all part of their charm.