Are you guilty of any of these things that cats apparently hate? It’s no secret that cats are independent creatures, but it turns out they also have a list of hates! From being ignored to being played with too roughly, here are the top 10 things people do that cats can’t stand. Maybe knowing this will help us be more mindful of our feline friends and make them feel more at home in our homes. After all, we want to keep them around for as long as possible! Right? Right. So read on and learn what not to do if you don’t want your cat glaring at you with disdain every time you walk into the room.
1. Being ignored
This one is pretty understandable. If you’ve ever been ignored by someone, you know how hurtful it can feel. So it’s no surprise that cats hate being ignored too. If you’re busy and can’t give your cat the attention it wants, try to set aside some time each day to really focus on your feline friend. Even a few minutes of undivided attention will go a long way!
2. Having their belly rubbed
Cats love to be petted, but there’s one place they definitely don’t want you to touch: their belly. For some reason, many people think it’s okay to just reach out and start rubbing a cat’s stomach, even if the cat is clearly not comfortable with it. If you see a cat swatting at your hand or looking like it’s about to bolt, take the hint and leave its belly alone!
3. Being played with too roughly
Cats are delicate creatures, and they don’t appreciate being treated like a toy. If you play with your cat too roughly, it will likely get scared and run away. And if you keep doing it, your cat may start to view you as a threat instead of a friend. So be gentle when playing with your feline friend, and make sure to let it dictate the terms of the game.
4. Having their claws clipped
claws clippedMost cats don’t enjoy having their claws clipped, but it’s something that needs to be done from time to time. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, take your cat to the vet or a professional groomer. They’ll be able to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and your cat will be much happier for it.
5. Being picked up
Cats generally don’t like being picked up, and there’s a good reason for that. For one thing, they’re not used to it. In the wild, cats are usually only picked up by their mothers when they’re very young. And even then, it’s only for a short period of time. So when you pick up your cat, it can feel very unnatural and uncomfortable. Additionally, cats are often afraid of heights, so being held off the ground can be downright scary. If you must pick up your cat, do it gently and carefully, and make sure to put it down as soon as possible.
6. Having their fur brushed
Brushing your cat’s fur is important for keeping it healthy and free of knots, but that doesn’t mean your cat is going to enjoy it. In fact, most cats absolutely hate having their fur brushed. If you can, try to make the experience as positive as possible by using a soft brush and offering your cat some treats afterward.
7. Being stared at
This one may seem odd, but cats really don’t like being stared at. In the wild, staring is often seen as a challenge or a threat, so it’s not surprising that cats would feel the same way in a domestic setting. If you find yourself staring at your cat without realizing it, try to look away every few seconds. And if you need to stare at your cat for an extended period of time (for example, while you’re grooming it), make sure to break eye contact frequently.
8. Having their food disturbed
Cats are creatures of habit, and they like their routine to stay the same. That means they don’t take kindly to having their food disturbed. If you need to move your cat’s food bowl, do it slowly and carefully so as not to startle your feline friend. And if you’re changing your cat’s diet, make sure to do it gradually so it has time to adjust.
9. Being held when they want to be left alone
There are times when all your cat wants is to be left alone, but unfortunately, that’s not always possible. If you have to hold your cat for extended periods of time (for example, during a car ride), make sure to do it in a way that’s comfortable for both of you. And if your cat starts squirming or trying to get away, respect its wishes and let it go.
Learn More: How Cats Speak Through Ear Movements
10. Wearing clothing
Many cats don’t mind wearing clothes from time to time, but others absolutely hate it. If you dress your cat in clothes, make sure to do it gently and carefully. And if your cat starts to squirm or show signs of discomfort, take the hint and take the clothing off.
Conclusion
Cats are wonderful, loving creatures, but they’re also very particular. If you want to keep your feline friend happy, it’s important to understand its needs and preferences. By respecting your cat’s wishes and making sure its needs are met, you can create a bond that will last a lifetime.
Frequently asked questions
1. Do cats like being petted?
It depends on the cat. Some cats enjoy being petted, while others prefer not to be touched. If you’re not sure whether your cat likes being petted, try it and see how it reacts. If it starts to squirm or show signs of discomfort, stop immediately.
2. Do cats like being held?
Again, it depends on the cat. Some cats don’t mind being held, while others find it very stressful. If you’re not sure whether your cat likes being held, try it and see how it reacts. If it starts to squirm or show signs of discomfort, stop immediately.
3. Do cats like being brushed?
This is another one that depends on the cat. Some cats enjoy being brushed, while others find it very stressful. If you’re not sure whether your cat likes being brushed, try it and see how it reacts. If it starts to squirm or show signs of discomfort, stop immediately.
4. Do cats like being around people?
Some cats enjoy being around people, while others prefer to be left alone. If you’re not sure whether your cat likes being around people, try spending some time with it and see how it reacts. If it seems stressed or uncomfortable, give it some space.
5. Do cats like being picked up?
This is another one that depends on the cat. Some cats don’t mind being picked up, while others find it very stressful. If you’re not sure whether your cat likes being picked up, try it and see how it reacts. If it starts to squirm or show signs of discomfort, stop immediately.
