Cats have an undeniably enigmatic charm, but they’re also creatures of strong preferences—and very clear dislikes! If you’re a cat parent, here’s a crash course on what not to do, no matter how tempting or convenient it may seem. Follow this guide, and your furry friend will thank you with purrs instead of glares.
1. Tease Your Cat
Sure, it’s tempting to blow gently in your cat’s face or ruffle their fur unexpectedly, especially when they’re in a cuddly mood. But cats take offense at such “fun” pretty quickly. Their sensitive noses and sharp reflexes don’t mesh well with teasing. A small puff in their face can turn your serene companion into an agitated whirlwind. Instead, learn to read their signals: If they flick their tail or flatten their ears, it’s time to back off. Respecting your cat’s boundaries will definitely save you from a judgmental stare or a scratch.
2. Declaw Your Cat
Declawing isn’t the equivalent of a quick nail trim; it’s more like a permanent “pedicure” that cats don’t want. It removes the last bone of each toe, which can cause your cat chronic pain, issues with balance, and behavior problems. Scratching is a natural way for cats to stretch and mark their territory, so if claw marks on your furniture make you wince, consider investing in scratching posts or pads. You’ll have a happy cat and a semi-intact couch!
3. Skip a Trip to the Vet
It’s tempting to avoid those regular vet visits, especially if your cat seems perfectly healthy. But remember, cats are experts at hiding symptoms—they’re pretty much the ninjas of the animal kingdom in that regard. A yearly checkup is essential to catch sneaky health issues that don’t show up in their day-to-day behavior. Besides, those early-morning vet trips give you both the chance to bond over mutual discomfort. Bring treats for bribery and a calming spray for nerves, and always be ready for a dramatic reaction.
4. Leave Them Alone for Too Long
While cats may seem self-sufficient, they’re not fans of total solitude. Leaving your cat alone for extended periods can lead to stress, depression, and possibly some very creative household destruction. If you have a busy schedule or travel often, arrange for a friend or pet sitter to keep your cat company, and stock up on interactive toys and food dispensers to keep them entertained. Think of it as giving your cat a mini staycation with all the luxury they expect.
5. Ignore Their Mental Needs
Yes, cats do sleep a lot. But when they’re awake, they need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. A bored cat is a recipe for shredded curtains and surprise attacks on unsuspecting ankles. Provide plenty of activities, like cat trees for climbing, wand toys for pouncing, and puzzle feeders for some brain exercise. Mix up the play routine to keep things interesting, or even better, give them a window perch to keep an eye on “Bird TV”—they’ll appreciate the entertainment.
6. Punish Your Cat
Cats don’t do well with punishment; in fact, it’ll likely leave them confused or just plain mad. Hitting, yelling, or squirting them with water won’t stop the behavior you’re trying to correct. Instead, they’ll just get sneaker about it or, worse, associate you with punishment. Rather than punishing them, reward your cat with treats and affection when they do something right. Positive reinforcement helps cats understand what’s expected of them, even if they may pretend not to care.
7. Let Them Roam Outdoors
As much as your kitty may eye the great outdoors, it’s not quite a feline paradise out there. Free-roaming cats face risks like busy roads, territorial wildlife, and exposure to parasites and diseases. While some cats enjoy a bit of safe outdoor time, it’s best to keep them supervised in an enclosed “catio” or take them out on a leash if they’re trained. Inside, set up safe spaces for your cat to explore. They’ll have plenty of fun climbing, hiding, and watching the world from the safety of home base.
8. Feed Them an Imbalanced Diet
Not all food is fit for feline consumption—cats have very specific dietary needs. Overfeeding, low-quality food, and too many treats can lead to health issues like obesity and nutrient deficiencies. While they might give you those pleading eyes for a taste of your dinner, resist the urge! Stick to balanced cat food that’s rich in animal-based protein, and consult your vet if you have diet questions. Remember, that pleading look is part of an act that they’ve mastered.
9. Smoke Indoors
Your cat might be giving you a subtle side-eye if you smoke indoors, and for good reason. Not only is secondhand smoke a serious health risk for humans, but it can also lead to respiratory issues and other health problems in cats. Since they spend a lot of time grooming, they’re likely to ingest harmful particles that settle on their fur. If you smoke, try to keep it outside for everyone’s sake—your cat included.
10. Give Them Strings or Small Toys
Cats love chasing strings, ribbons, and small objects, but these toys can come with big risks. If swallowed, strings and other small items can cause choking or serious internal blockages. It’s best to avoid toys with small detachable parts or those made from yarn or string. Instead, choose safe toys like wand toys, sturdy plushies, and puzzle feeders. And always supervise playtime with any new toys to make sure your cat is using them safely. You’ll get to enjoy their playful antics without worrying about any surprise trips to the vet.
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