Published Mar 19, 2025
Phoebe the cat absolutely loves her dad. As for her mom, well, she’s there to pick up after her and feed her treats.
We’re kidding–mostly! But, like most cats, Phoebe has definitely chosen a favorite person.
A touching relationship
The couple adopted Phoebe from a friend who had a litter of Scottish Fold kittens. Her mom says that she was a first-time cat mom, but fell in love instantly. Phoebe was immediately very social, which she didn’t expect from a cat–though it’s common when they’re well socialized, especially as youngsters.
Phoebe reciprocated her mom’s love, but she developed a special bond with her dad. She loves to cuddle and sleep beneath his arm, and he likes giving her kisses. She seems to especially love his beard, often snuggling into it as she lays on top of him.
They even sleep together every night, making Phoebe’s mom feel like a third wheel. And if Mom dares touch Phoebe while she’s cuddling Dad? She’ll bat her hand away! She also side eyes her, making her annoyance clear.
Just the maid?
Phoebe’s mom jokes that she’s just the “maid” who scoops her litter box. Sometimes it can feel that way when your cat doesn’t favor you!
However, Phoebe and her mom also have a great relationship. She cuddles with her sometimes, just not as often as she does her dad. She’ll also give her mom lots of attention while Dad is gone, even if it’s only to ask for treats.
Phoebe’s mom works from home, so they get to spend plenty of time together. Sometimes Phoebe will meow at her if she thinks she’s working too hard–and not paying enough attention to Phoebe!
While her partner has always been a cat person, Phoebe’s mom has come around since meeting Phoebe. She says she makes her happier and has changed her life for the better, despite–or maybe even because of–her sassiness.
She initially considered having a pet to be about responsibility, but while Phoebe has taught her to be more responsible, she’s also taught her about love.
How do cats choose favorites?
Most cats are like Phoebe and do have a favorite person. They may choose based on a variety of factors, including the person’s gender, age, or personality. For instance, many cats prefer women over men. Playful kittens may prefer more active people who are always ready to play together!
A cat’s background, especially during key socialization periods as a kitten, can also have an impact. If they were bottle fed by a blonde woman as a kitten, they may feel a kinship with similar-looking people who remind them of her!
The time you spend with your cat also makes a difference, as does your treatment of them. Cats often gravitate toward people who are familiar, and who engage with them often. Sometimes, though, they may prefer the novelty of the person who’s home the least, soaking up time with them while they can.
Like people, cats are all unique with their own preferences. In Phoebe’s case, she seems to love her dad’s beard, so that might contribute to her cuddling him more.
