The Horseshoe Theory of Furries
There are two main types of furry character: “human with animal characteristics” or “animal with human characteristics.” Each of these can be subdivided into three main stages based on how significant their species non-conforming characteristics are. Typically, the animal side of the scale will primarily incorporate the behavioural characteristics of humankind, where the human side focuses more on physical traits.
At the first stage, whether the character is humanoid or animal, the traits from the other side will be mostly superficial. In the case of a feral character, their human traits are almost invariably limited to human intelligence and often human speech. Notable examples include Joe Grey, Shelby, and every Warrior Cat.
Conversely, a catgirl’s personality will usually be superficially affected by their animal traits, if it’s affected at all – the extent of their animalness will usually be limited to key animal features such as ears and tail. A lot of anime characters fall under this category.
At the second stage, the character has significant visual and behavioural traits from both human and animal, but one or the other is still front and centre.
A toon character will generally be akin to a human in most ways, but still recognisably behave like an animal. They may wear clothing or walk upright to distinguish them from regular animals. Notable examples include the Aristocats, Garfield, or Fluttershy.
A kemonomimi will generally be the reverse – they’re still fundamentally human, but will generally show animal traits such as hunting or physical affection. Kemonos are often the result of human characters being partially transformed into animals or animals shapeshifting into human form. Examples include Ariel and the Minotaur.
The third and final stage is closest to the line where human and animal are one – the character is both. Generally, media featuring them will exclusively use them as a stand-in for humans. The line between beastfolk and anthro is usually subjective, but whether or not they wear clothing is a good indicator of which side they fall on. Zootopia and Geronimo Stilton are key examples of beastfolk, where Bugs Bunny or Puss in Boots fall on the anthro side.
Cartoon characters such as Mickey Mouse are a sort of "stage zero" on this scale, with absolutely no animal behaviours but a completely nonhuman appearance - the extreme example of this thesis. Tom Nook or Pinky and the Brain also arguably fall under this category.
Characters with predominantly human appearance but predominantly animal behaviour are vanishingly rare.
