The question is most often asked when people either already have a cat or kitten at home, or when they want more than one kitten and want to know how they are likely to get on with each other.
It is impossible to give an absolute answer to the question “Which is the best: a male or a female cat?” Behavior of a British Shorthair may also vary depending on the character of the given cat and their own uniqueness, so it is hard to clearly describe the difference between a male and a female. I can only share my personal opinion that has been formed based on their observed behavior. And this is just an in general opinion since there is many variables that goes into a cats personality development.
Early in life, kittens—female and male alike—hardly differ from each other. The difference in their behavior and character become noticeable only with age.
- Males:
A British Shorthair male is bigger and stronger than a female. Normal is around 10 to 14 lbs
He will become your true friend, becoming lazier over time but will always remain your sweet baby ready to play. He is an eternal Peter Pan that never wants to grow up and dogs your footsteps; he will subconsciously encourage his master to pet him or play.
A male cat is a very curious animal, and he wants to know everything that is happening in his home. He likes to carefully inspect and sniff new things, shopping bags, and get into a new item, whether it is a box or a bag. If you are busy with something around the house, a male cat will watch all your actions tirelessly and with great interest.
Some believe that the British Shorthair males are very independent and selfish. This is not entirely true. A male cat is very committed to his home as well as to his masters, he really loves them. At the same time, he will never bother you or depend on your entirely.
A male will actually shower all with his love and affection and normally not just pick one family member compared to a female.
- Females:
Females are much smaller and petite. Weighing from 6lbs to 10lbs
In early childhood, female kittens are very cute, playful, and affectionate... As they get older, they develop a great deal of personality. They become self-confident mysterious creatures, and you can see it in their look and their behavior. Female cats are more affectionate than male cats, they openly show their emotions. They are more cunning, and, one might say, even smarter than male cats. Female cats set their own rules in the house much milder than male cats, and, with affection, they always get their whims satisfied.
A British Shorthair female is often attached to a single family member. As soon as a female cat gets a new home, she starts choosing a favorite who will be the subject of her affection.
A female cat likes manifestations of your love and affection, but she can suddenly get up and leave showing her independence. By their nature, they are neat freaks, and can groom themselves for several hours a day.
So as you can see there is a few differences but in general they are similar just the main thing you will notice is how their affections tend to be... Males acceptance of all in the family not ever devoting full affection on anyone person. Females picking one family member as her own and devotes her loyalty and trust to that one person, but still accepts everyone.
It will be difficult to choose between a male cat and a female cat. Bear in mind, however, that in any case, we are talking about the British Shorthair—both a male and a female will be a perfect friend for any family.
The other thing to consider is the breeder and how they have worked on the socializing process
A good breeder should always be happy to answer sensible questions, so discuss it with the breeder you choose. They should be able to help you select a kitten that is likely to have a laid-back personality, or any other trait that you would like. Kittens’ personalities often take after their parents, so a good breeder who knows their cats well should be able to help you choose the most suitable parents for your kitten. If the parents have had previous litters, then this will also give the breeder an insight into the likely personality of the kittens.
A very good breeder will also go to extra lengths to socialize your kitten and help you select a kitten from the litter with a suitable temperament, as they should know their kittens very well. I actually start this process from the day the kittens are born and watch their personalities and how they develop which than I share with you on each kittens personality. There are no guarantees that a kitten's personality will remain the same into adulthood, but I have found that most of the personality I notice at early age will carry through out their life.
Conclusion...
Try not to get too decided on whether you would like a male or female kitten before you see the litter you are interested in. Overall, it is not a hugely important point. It is more important to choose a good breeder who works hard to socialize their kittens and knows their cats well so they can advise you on whether a particular kitten would be a good fit for your family.