Do you have a cat? If so, you might assume women will love your feline-favoring instincts – but you’d be wrong. Research shows men who like cats are less likely to get a date.
Colorado State University conducted a study into cat-ownership and found that women don’t usually swipe right when they land on a picture of a dude and his cat.
When a woman sees a cat-free picture of the same guy, 38% said they’d consider dating him and another 37% said they’d consider him serious relationship material.
What’s the problem with cats?
What is it about a cat-loving guy that’s a turnoff? Researchers say the reasoning is probably rooted in stereotypes that differentiate between “dog people and cat people.” As part of the study, women were asked to identify which they were.
The results suggest that men with cuddly felines aren’t considered masculine, which is why women tend to stray away.
“Women prefer men with ‘good genes,’ often defined as more masculine traits,” the research stated. “Clearly, the presence of a cat diminishes that perception.”
Additional profile picture tips
Obviously, you shouldn’t include a cozy picture of you and your cat on your profile, but what should you include? Here are some tips to make sure your profile pictures are well-received:
- Show your natural smile
Try to take a picture with a natural smile. A forced smile or a “cheesy smile” won’t attract the ladies.
- Add a full-body shot
Research suggests profiles with a full-body shot receive 203% more incoming messages. Experts say it’s all about being honest with who you are and how you look.
- Avoid group shots
Sure, adding a group shot shows you have friends and an active social life, but women aren’t interested in those aspects immediately. Keep the group shots off the profile, or at the very least, not as your leading image.
