Are Persian Cats Dumb – Myths & What To Know

Persian parents think the sun rises and sets on their beautiful fur babies. And, if you ask them, they’d likely say their kitties are the smartest in the world. But, the breed’s reluctance to chase prey or follow routine has some people asking – are Persian cats dumb?

Generally, Persian cats are not dumb. However it is challenging to measure any cat’s intelligence. Not many studies have been conducted on cat intelligence and barely any on Persian intellect.

Generally, people tend to label Persians dull because they’re not as active as other breeds and prefer to spend their time napping. However, does that mean Persian cats are dummies? Read on to find.

How Is Cat Intelligence Measured

Humans have come up with numerous ways to measure intelligence, including I.Q. Tests. And researchers have also managed to produce canine intelligence tests based on agility, problem-solving, and short-term memory. 

Unfortunately, canine intelligence tests don’t transfer well to cats. For one thing, cats can be notoriously difficult when asked to follow commands unless there’s something in it for them. Secondly, cats are wired differently than dogs. 

Many canines have the inherent need to please their owners, leading to obedience. On the other hand, felines express their love to owners by bringing them dead mice. It’s a total disconnect. 

Nonetheless, animal behaviorists like Kristyn Vitale (Assistant Professor of Animal Health and Behavior, Unity College, Maine) are working to uncover the secrets of kitty intelligence. According to Vitale, animal intelligence typically revolves around three broad areas: concept formation, social intelligence, and problem-solving skills. 

Felines often excel in two out of three of those areas. For example, cats are pretty adept problem-solvers, especially when it comes to something that interests them. 

Additionally, cats exhibit a high level of social intelligence. Some felines have no trouble distinguishing their names from other sounds, while others love interacting with humans. 

How Can You Test A Persian’s IQ

The internet is jam-packed with DIY methods of testing cat intelligence. However, if you’re looking for something a little more vetted and reliable, we’ve got you covered. 

Kristyn Vitale (Animal Behaviorist and Assistant Professor at Unity College) published a paper in Animal Cognition back in 2015 that highlights approximately seven areas of testing kitty smarts. 

And, that’s what Persian owners can rely on to prove to the world that Persians are just as smart as any other feline. Here’s how.

Communication

Does your Persian cat make several different sounds when attempting to gain your attention? Is your feline’s mewl for food distinguishable from its meow when it’s feeling bored? 

If yes, then you’ve got a pretty smart cookie (or cat) on your hands. Animals that can communicate in different sounds based on the situation exhibit an awareness of their surroundings and humans. 

Attachment

Felines are often depicted as aloof and unable to form bonds or attachments with people. But, research has proven that wrong. What’s more, cats can also differentiate between their primary caregivers and other family members. That means they understand the concept of care and respond to it. 

If you happen to be the primary caregiver of your adorable Persian, and you notice your pet tends to follow you or stick by your side more than any other, that your feline’s way of showing you importance. 

The Concept Of Cause And Effect

Has your Persian Cat jumped on you to wake you for food? And, does it repeat the action whenever you’re particularly late to leave your bed in the mornings?

If yes, you can be confident your feline understands the concept of cause and effect. In other words, your cat knows that jumping on you will result in you waking up. And, the fact that it’s stored this information away to use when required means your cat understands that the action will lead to the same outcome every time. 

Object Permanence

Have you ever heard of the saying ‘out of sight, out of mind?.’ Well, you’ll be happy to know that your feline is more intelligent than falling for that. How? Cats understand that it still exists when a permanently placed object suddenly goes out of sight. 

That’s why if you note your Persian looking for its favorite toy (that you’ve obviously chosen to hide), you can safely say your fur baby comprehends the concept of object permanence too. 

Awareness Of Time 

Another measure of feline intelligence behaviorists can sometimes rely on is the understanding of time. That may sound all scientific, but before you go renting a lab, you should know that the concept is pretty easy to prove at home. 

To prove your Persian has an awareness of time, disappear for half an hour right before Fluffy’s mealtime. When you go back, observe your feline’s behavior. 

If it’s circling its food bowl while looking at you, you’re being judged for tardiness. A cat wouldn’t be able to gauge the hour you give it food if it didn’t have some notion of time. 

Awareness Of Human Cues

You may think your cat ignores you most of the time, but the truth is, felines study and observe humans pretty closely. For example, most cats will scamper for the corners when you call their name in an angry tone. That’s because they know you only use that tone when you’re annoyed. 

Nonetheless, you can test your Persian cat’s awareness of human cues in several ways. The easiest way is to call out your kitty’s name and wait for it to show up. 

Measuring Up Your Persian Cat’s Performance

If you Persian feline managed to ace all or most of the areas of feline intelligence listed above, your pet is anything but dumb. 

It’s true Persians prefer to laze the day away rather than getting all tired chasing a toy mouse, but we feel that’s a lifestyle choice. When it comes to sensing or averting danger, sniffing out treats, tragically mewling to get your attention – Persians are at the top of their game. 

Conclusion

If animal behaviorists are still struggling to unlock the puzzle of feline intelligence, it’s safe to say calling any feline breed dumb is just being a teensy-weensy bit conceited. 

Until the day scientists come up with a sure-shot method of calculating a Persian cat’s intellect, we’re all just going to have to get by. Until then, spend your energies playing or grooming with your Persian kitty and enjoy its emanating purrs. 

Till next time, stay pawsome!