Who is this in English - a cat? - briefly
"What is this in English? A cat."
Who is this in English - a cat? - in detail
In English, the phrase "who is this" is commonly used to ask for identification or clarification about someone or something unfamiliar. When it comes to animals, and specifically cats, using "who" instead of "what" might seem unusual because "who" typically refers to humans or other beings with personalities and consciousness. However, in informal contexts or when addressing a pet, people often use "who" to anthropomorphize the animal, attributing human-like qualities to it. This usage reflects the close bond and affection many people have with their pets, treating them as part of the family rather than just another creature.