The Fascinating History Of The Phrase ‘Cat Lady’

You’ve most likely heard the phrase Cat Lady before. It’s been used widely across pop culture—usually to make fun of women of a certain age, lifestyle, or personality. It’s no secret we’re proud Cat Ladies and Cat Dudes around here—like you, we think cats are truly epic! But society hasn’t always viewed the phrase Cat Lady isn’t in a positive way, and we’re going to find out why. Below, Cat in a Flat dives into the history, tropes, and stereotypes behind the Cat Lady label.

What’s the history behind Cat Lady?

What’s the history behind Cat Lady? Your little house tiger has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians revered cats and at times associated with the gods and worship. They saw them as symbols of femininity, and often portrayed Bastet—the goddess of protection, fertility, motherhood, and the home—as either a feline or a woman with a cat’s head. Our furry friends were held in such high esteem in ancient Egypt that they were sometimes mummified with their owners. They believed our furry friends could ward off evil spirits in the afterlife! 

When did Cat Lady become negative?

When did Cat Lady become negative? Felines and femininity began to take on some negative stereotypes in medieval Europe. Society saw women who didn’t adhere to typical societal norms such as marriage, childbearing, and domesticity as dangerous. In turn, cats become associated with witchcraft and the devil. People viewed felines, especially black ones, with distrust and would blame them for having an evil influence over women accused of being witches. Our furry friends strange quirks—such as staring into space, their uncanny nighttime abilities, and their love of playing with their prey—most likely contributed to these feelings of unease. 

By the 1800s, the stereotype of the ‘crazy cat lady’ as a monstrous woman living in isolation and who could only love her pets, was in full swing. It wasn’t uncommon to label women who remained unmarried as ‘cat ladies’. Later, feline images were even used to attack women for demanding the right to vote. From this history emerged the negative Cat Lady trope that we still see today. Even now it’s often used by those who wish to minimise women as sad, lonely, or pathetic when they choose to live outside societal and cultural norms. 

Is it still considered bad to be a cat lady?

Is it still considered bad to be a cat lady? While some male politicians and pundits still try to use Cat Lady as an insult when speaking about women, the meaning of the phrase is certainly changing for the better. In 2024, Taylor Swift—perhaps one of the world’s most famous kitty parent—proudly declared herself a Cat Lady. Some groups still use it negatively, but many women are claiming the title as an expression of their independence and love for their furry friends. 

More and more, feline reputations are changing too. Many people are learning that kitties are not as stand-offish, cold, and aloof as pop culture usually portrays. Our furry friends love their humans, miss them when they’re gone, and form intense attachments too. Kitty companionship is a valid choice, and women should wear the Cat Lady label with pride! 

Why are most cat sitters on Cat in a Flat women?

Why are most cat sitters on Cat in a Flat women? You would think that because the Cat Lady trope is so predominant, it would make sense that more women own cats and enjoy working in industries where they can be around them. However, a recent study shows that men are more likely to own cats (shout-out to all the Cat Dudes out there!). 

So then, why are most cat sitters still women?  This is in large part because of common societal roles where women tend to take on caregiving duties or work in the home. Sometimes when hiring a cat sitter, homeowners may prefer a woman. This could be because they perceive them as more empathetic and suited for pet care. And, of course, if a pet parent is a woman herself, she may feel safer inviting a female cat sitter into her home to care for her kitty. 

Women are also more likely to work part time, and seek creative ways to supplement their income. Because cat sitting tends to be relatively flexible, it suits women who are active in the gig economy. Of course, the added benefit of becoming a cat sitter is that you get to spend a lot of time with cats too! 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CatInAFlat – Cat Sitting (@catinaflat)

Are certain cat breeds better for men or women?

Are certain cat breeds better for men or women? No, there isn’t a specific breed that is better for men or women. The same goes for female vs. male kitties. There is a common misconception that female cats are more aggressive than males. Hence the belief that Mr Whiskers will be more easy-going than Ms Whiskers. But the primary differences between genders and breeds are physical. Some types will be larger or have longer fur than others. Female cats of all breeds tend to be physically smaller than their male counterparts. 

Your main considerations when bringing a new kitty into your life—regardless of whether you’re a Cat Lady or a Cat Dude—should be personality, lifestyle, and care needs. Some breeds such as the Bengal cat have high activity levels and require a lot of attention. Others, like the Ragdoll, are more calm and laid-back and better suited for apartment living. You should always give careful thought to whether your personality is suited for your new fur friend and vice versa. And, if possible, aim to adopt instead of shop. There are many kitties in animal shelters looking for a happy home. Most shelters will help match you with a feline suited for your lifestyle and personality needs as well. 

Want to learn more about fascinating cats? Check out these popular feline myths, learn a few amazing things you might not know about kitties,  and discover brave pets who’ve done heroic things!