Because environment plays a role in shaping a cat's personality, knowing the life history of a particular kitten or cat makes it easier to predict what he will be like. In general, kittens grow up to be better adjusted cats if they were gently handled by humans from the age of 2 weeks on and if they stayed with their mother and littermates for at least eight weeks. An adult cat that has lived in one home with caring owners is more likely to be good-natured than one who has had uncertainty and neglect as its life companions. But even this isn't foolproof. If you are choosing a purebred cat, you can be fairly certain that his personality will fit the profile for that breed; for instance, Maine coon cats are know to be placid and very friendly, while Burmese are very lively, inquisitive and amiable. Purebred or not, any cat is as much a product of upbringing as genes and will have a distinct personality. Whether you know the cat's background or not, assess how he reacts to you and your family. And even if a cat develops one or two annoying traits or habits, his endearing qualities will most likely make up for them.

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