Living with a cat can sometimes feel like a battle for dominance. Tired of being ignored, disrespected, and walked all over? Here are 20 ways to demand the respect you deserve from your feline overlord.
1. Set Boundaries
Establish what’s off-limits and enforce it consistently. Your cat will probably ignore these boundaries and continue doing as they please.
2. Be Consistent
Stick to your rules without wavering. Your cat will take advantage of any inconsistency, so don’t expect immediate results.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward good behaviour with treats and affection. Your cat might just take the treat and continue with their usual antics.
4. Establish a Routine
Feed, play, and cuddle at the same times each day to create a stable environment. Your cat will likely ignore the schedule and demand attention whenever they want.
5. Provide Proper Training
Teach your cat basic commands like “sit” and “stay.” Your cat will probably pretend to learn and then do the exact opposite.
6. Ignore Demands
Don’t jump to their every meow. Your cat will simply find a louder, more annoying way to get your attention.
7. Offer Quality Time
Spend quality time playing and cuddling with your cat. Your cat will enjoy it on their terms and walk away when they’ve had enough.
8. Use Firm, Calm Commands
Speak to your cat in a firm but calm voice. Your cat will likely respond with indifference and continue their mischief.
9. Don’t Tolerate Biting or Scratching
Firmly discourage biting or scratching. Your cat will act innocent, only to scratch the sofa the moment you turn away.
10. Provide Stimulating Toys
Give your cat plenty of toys to keep them entertained. They’ll probably ignore the toys and find more fun in your belongings.
11. Create a Safe Space
Magui RF
Set up a cozy, safe area for your cat to retreat to. They’ll still prefer to nap in inconvenient places like your favourite chair.
12. Respect Their Space
Allow your cat to come to you when they’re ready. Your cat will come over just to knock something off the table and then leave.
13. Keep Feeding Areas Clean
Maintain a clean feeding area. Your cat will still manage to make a mess and look at you to clean it up.
14. Groom Regularly
Brush your cat to keep their coat healthy. They’ll likely squirm away and give you a disdainful look.
15. Monitor Health Closely
Pay attention to any changes in behaviour or health. Your cat will likely hide any discomfort until it becomes a major issue.
16. Encourage Clawing on Posts
Provide scratching posts to save your furniture. Your cat will use the posts sometimes but prefer your new sofa.
17. Use Gentle Correction
Correct bad behaviour gently but firmly. Your cat will give you a blank stare and continue to do as they please.
18. Offer Varied Diet
Provide a balanced and varied diet. Your cat will turn their nose up at the food one day and devour it the next.
19. Respect Their Independence
Allow your cat to be independent. They’ll still demand attention at the most inconvenient times.
20. Love Them Unconditionally
Show your cat unconditional love and affection. They’ll occasionally reciprocate, but mostly they’ll do as they please.
Cat Owners: The Eternal Struggle
Trying to demand respect from your cat is a never-ending battle. Despite your best efforts, your feline friend will always have their own way of doing things. Embrace the chaos and love them for who they are.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Andriy Blokhin.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
