Torties are sometimes called “the divas of the cat world” because they typically like things done their way and have a quick temper when crossed. They may be affectionate one minute and hissing the next. Many are high-strung and dislike sharing their homes with other pets.

Tortoiseshell cats in particular often seem to display these types of personality traits. Cats as a whole are often considered independent, unpredictable, and less affectionate than dogs, though research disputes this theory.