In what can only be deemed a very controversial move, Associate Professor Denise Guastello at Carroll University in Wisconsin in the US has done what no other researcher has dared do before – she conducted a study to determine whether cat people or dog people are smarter.
Our personality traits often determine whether we favour cats or dogs but do these traits correlate with our intelligence? To some degree, yes.
The study surveyed 600 university students and asked whether they were more dog lovers or cat lovers. It then asked them to list which qualities they liked most about their preferred animal and asked them questions in order to access their own personalities.
The results found dog lovers are typically more energetic and outgoing, but were also all about following rules whereas feline fanatics were non-conformists.
“It makes sense that a dog person is going to be more lively, because they’re going to want to be out there, outside, talking to people, bringing their dog,” says Associate Professor Guastello. “Whereas, if you’re more introverted, and sensitive, maybe you’re more at home reading a book, and your cat doesn’t need to go outside for a walk.”
But here’s where we get to the good part, what you came here for. The participants were also asked a range of questions to assess their smarts and, sorry to say dog lovers, but cat lovers came out on top when it came to intelligence. Now, before you demand a recount keep in mind this was only a small study so cat lovers, try not to gloat too hard because before you know it this theory might be disproved.
