What are people-cats called? - briefly
People who identify as cat-people, or those who have a strong affinity for cats, are often referred to as "cat lovers" or "ailurophiles." This term encompasses individuals who have a deep appreciation and connection with cats.
What are people-cats called? - in detail
People who identify as cats, often referred to as "therianthropes" or "otherkin," have various terms to describe their specific feline identities. The term "therianthrope" originates from the Greek words "therion," meaning beast, and "anthropos," meaning human. It refers to individuals who believe they have a non-human spirit or identity, often that of an animal. For those who identify specifically as cats, the terminology can vary widely depending on cultural, personal, and community preferences.
One of the most common terms used is "feline therian." This term explicitly indicates that the individual identifies as a cat or a feline species. Within this category, there are further distinctions. Some people might identify as a specific type of cat, such as a "lion therian" or a "tiger therian," indicating a more precise feline identity. Others might use the term "big cat therian" to encompass larger feline species.
Another term that is sometimes used is "feline otherkin." The term "otherkin" is broader and encompasses individuals who identify as non-human entities, including mythical creatures, aliens, and other animals. Feline otherkin specifically refers to those who identify as cats or feline species within this broader category.
Additionally, some individuals might use more colloquial or personal terms to describe their feline identity. For example, they might refer to themselves as "cat people" or "feline-shifters," although these terms are less formally recognized within the therian and otherkin communities.
It is important to note that the terminology used can be highly personal and subjective. Individuals may choose terms that resonate with them on a deeply personal level, and these choices can evolve over time as their understanding of their identity develops. Respect for an individual's self-identified terminology is crucial within these communities, as it reflects their personal journey and understanding of their non-human identity.
In summary, people who identify as cats use a variety of terms to describe their feline identities, including "feline therian," "lion therian," "tiger therian," "big cat therian," and "feline otherkin." These terms reflect a broad spectrum of personal and cultural understandings of what it means to identify as a cat, and respect for an individual's chosen terminology is essential.