Cougar Versus Sophisticat. Your Vote?

So, on the local news the other night they had a story on “cougars.” You know – women getting involved with younger men. May-December romances. Like Demi Moore and Ashton Kutchner. Demi is considered one of the more famous cougars, marrying Ashton when he was a tender 27. She was 42.   

According to the news report, some older women who have married a younger man take issue with the term “cougar.” They would prefer to be called “sophisticats.” (I couldn’t make this up if I tried.)

Husband thought this was hilarious. I thought, who are these people? Can someone please explain to me how sophisticat is better than cougar?

(Minor digression: Husband had never heard of a “cougar” hence him calling me over to the TV last night saying, get a load of this. Clearly, he is behind in his E! Entertainment television viewing. Hollywood has been on to this one for years.)

Apparently one can only claim the title of cougar, if the woman is at least ten years older than her conquest. And, “conquest” is an inherent part of the definition. As in, everyone around you should marvel that you landed him, therefore making you even more special. Also, the popularity of wearing animal prints is another seemingly trait of “cougars.” (That one would put me out of this group immediately. Leopard is not my color.)

For the record, the term “cougar” never bothered me. At least it was strong. And, the men obviously were strong for recognizing the benefits of being with, shall we say, a more evolved being. So, sophisticat just doesn’t match up with this powerful ability — to attract and keep much younger men, who as a group are prone to the younger woman.

And, am I the only one who gets a mental picture of Disney’s Aristocats movie? (Spoiler alert for anyone born after 1970:  Picture animated cats, with diamond collars, running around trying to reclaim their fortune left to them by their wealthy owner who just kicked the bucket. In the end, the butler did it.)

I am far from a cougar-sophisticat-whatever besides the fact animal prints not being my best look. Husband is 11 years older than me. (Just a sec. I stand corrected. He wants you to know that he is 10 years and 6 months older. ) But, I cannot picture Susan Sarandon, who has been long-term involved with younger Tim Robbins, sitting on an animated white satin pillow purring at Tim. (And nor can I picture her in a tiger outfit.)

But, by now you are asking, what does this have to do with being an LBB — getting married for the first time over age 40? Well, it seems the cougar-sophisticat debate is just another way of addressing the surprise that women over a “certain age” can find new love. Regardless of age — and regardless of the age of their beloved – it all comes down to this: If you are a little older, people are amazed you can land anyone. And, you are so special, you must be given a very special name. So, ladies, if you are an LBB, consider yourself a very special person. A catch. Meow.

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