Videos of startled cats leaping away from cucumbers have become a familiar sight online, but the behaviour behind these clips is more complicated than it looks. While it may seem as though cats are naturally frightened of cucumbers, animal behaviour specialists say the reaction has little to do with the vegetable itself.
Instead, it reflects how cats respond when something unfamiliar appears behind them at a vulnerable moment. Understanding why this happens can help prevent unnecessary stress and keep your cat feeling safe at home.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Cats react differently depending on their environment and past experiences. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
1. Siamese
Siamese cats are famous for their vocal personalities and intense devotion to their favourite person. They will literally talk to you all day long, sharing opinions about everything from dinner time to the weather outside.
These cats hate being alone and may develop separation anxiety if left without their chosen human for too long. They prefer sitting on laps, sleeping in beds, and participating in every single activity their person does.
Their need for constant interaction makes them ideal for someone who works from home or has plenty of time for companionship.
2. Burmese
With a personality that blends dog-like loyalty with feline independence, Burmese cats often choose one person as their absolute favourite. They follow their selected human from room to room, never wanting to miss a moment of action.
These cats are known for their soft voices and tendency to greet their person at the door like an excited puppy would. They enjoy being held and will drape themselves across shoulders or nestle into arms for hours.
Their playful nature continues well into adulthood, making them entertaining companions.
3. Russian Blue
Russian Blues are naturally shy around strangers but form unbreakable bonds with their chosen person. They may hide when guests visit, only emerging once the coast is clear and their trusted human is alone again.
These cats demonstrate their affection through quiet companionship rather than constant demands for attention. They will sit nearby while you read or work, content just to be in the same space.
Once they trust someone completely, they become incredibly devoted and sensitive to their person’s moods and routines.
4. Sphynx
The hairless Sphynx craves warmth and affection, often selecting one person to be their primary heat source and best friend. Their lack of fur means they actively seek out warm bodies, making them exceptionally clingy companions.
These cats have extroverted personalities and love being the centre of attention within their chosen person’s world. They will drape themselves across shoulders, burrow under blankets, and demand to be included in every activity.
Their social nature combined with temperature needs creates an intensely bonded relationship.
5. Ragdoll
Ragdolls earned their name by going completely limp when picked up by their trusted person, showing total relaxation and trust. These large, fluffy cats often imprint strongly on one family member, greeting them enthusiastically and following them throughout the house.
They are known for their calm temperament and tendency to wait patiently outside bathroom doors or bedroom entrances. Their gentle disposition makes them wonderful for people seeking a peaceful yet devoted companion.
Many owners report their Ragdolls sleeping beside them every single night without fail.
6. Birman
Birmans are sometimes called the sacred cats of Burma, and they certainly treat their chosen person like royalty. These cats form deep emotional connections with one individual while remaining polite and friendly toward others in the household.
They communicate through soft chirps and gentle head bumps, preferring subtle interactions over dramatic displays. Birmans will often sleep on their person’s pillow or curl up directly on their chest at night.
Their balanced temperament means they provide companionship without becoming overly demanding or anxious when briefly alone.
7. Abyssinian
Abyssinians are incredibly active cats who choose one person to be their primary playmate and adventure partner. They have boundless energy and curiosity, constantly investigating every corner of the home alongside their selected human.
These cats are not lap sitters but prefer being involved in whatever their person is doing, whether cooking dinner or folding laundry. They are highly intelligent and can learn tricks, often responding better to their favourite person’s training efforts.
Their athletic build means they love climbing and jumping during interactive play sessions.
8. Devon Rex
Devon Rex cats have been described as part cat, part monkey, and part dog because of their unusual behaviour and strong attachment to their favourite person. Their wavy coats and oversized ears give them an elfin appearance that matches their mischievous personalities.
These cats will perch on shoulders, steal food from plates, and follow their chosen human everywhere with unwavering dedication. They are incredibly social and may become depressed if separated from their person for extended periods.
Their playful antics and constant companionship make them entertaining housemates.
9. Scottish Fold
Scottish Folds are known for their unique folded ears and their tendency to choose one special person to shower with affection. These cats have sweet, calm personalities and prefer quiet environments where they can focus on their chosen human.
They are not typically vocal cats but communicate their devotion through constant presence and gentle purring. Scottish Folds enjoy sitting beside their person rather than on them, maintaining close but comfortable proximity.
Their easygoing temperament makes them adaptable to various living situations as long as their favourite person is nearby.
