Cats make perfect wingmen for singles in Cornwall, Valentine expert claims

Singles across Cornwall could have a head start in the dating game by proudly proclaiming their love of cats this Valentine’s Day, with relationship experts claiming cats make the ultimate wingmen. 

For anyone lucky enough to have a date this 14 February, Jo Hemmings, psychologist, dating coach and owner of 11-year-old cat Louis advises not to shy away from sharing your love for your cat.  

 Jo says: “A liking for cats could create a shared bond and provide a conversation starter to bypass the feared small talk. Share what amuses you about your cat’s personality, why you love it. At the very least, your face will light up when you speak about your cats and that’s always a winner. Just don’t overdo it!” 

 And animal welfare charity Cats Protection, which has a centre on Point Road in Carnon Downs and volunteer-run branches that cover Falmouth, Helston, Launceston and surrounds, is also calling on pet owners to proclaim their love for their four-legged friends, with over 50 cats across the county currently looking for their own perfect match.  

At Cornwall Cat Centre this includes ‘heartthrob’ Cat Damon who is looking for his own special someone. The two-year-old jet-black moggie is a little shy unlike his Hollywood counterpart and is therefore looking for a quiet and calm environment where he can settle at his own pace and feel safe. The team at the centre have seen his confidence grow each day. They are confident that with a gentle approach and a tasty treat here and there, he will blossom in a home environment and show off his affectionate nature. 

 In a survey of more than 10,000 people, the Cats Protection Cats And Their Stats (CATS) Report 2025 found a shift in the Cat Lady stereotype with nearly as many men (23%) as women (24%) now naming cats as their pet of choice.  

 Jo continues: “In the often-soulless world of online dating, the presence of a cat can speak volumes. Cat photos on your profile can elevate a run-of-the-mill pitch to an emotionally rich 3D portrait. It isn’t just cute; it can be emotional catnip. It says, if my cat trusts me, you can too. 

 “When a man chooses to share an image of himself with his cat companion, he is – often unconsciously- signalling emotional intelligence. Cats are relationally nuanced creatures: they require understanding rather than dominance, respect rather than control.  

“Psychologically, this suggests a capacity for empathy, patience, and an ability to read emotional cues. It hints at a man who is comfortable with gentleness and emotional reciprocity, rather than performative toughness. Cats really are a win-win for love.” 

Proud cat dad and Cats Protection Central Behaviour Officer Daniel Warren-Cummings also knows a thing or two about sharing photos of his family cat: “We all like to show off our cats, talk about the things they do that make us laugh, but it’s good to remember that a cat isn’t a trophy to be paraded, it’s a living companion who relies on us for its care. 

“The bond we share with our pets can have great emotional impact, so for many people, kicking back on the sofa with snacks, a good film and a purring cat is the definition of a good night.  

 “Our cats welcome us home after a tough day, they snuggle up when we’re feeling under the weather and they make us smile with the cute, sometimes mad, things they do. They don’t let us down. They just ask that we remain there for each other.” 

Anybody wishing to find out more about Cat Damon as well as others at the centre should visit www.cats.org.uk/cornwall