Things You Do That Your Cat Probably Hates

People like to talk about the funny quirks that cats have, but did you know that cat owners have a lot of quirks too?

Yes, it’s true! You are likely doing a few things that are driving your cat absolutely crazy. Luckily, our kitties love us very much, and they’re willing to put up with a lot from us. Still, it’s important to keep their feelings in mind and make them as comfortable as possible.

With that in mind, let’s talk about a few of our human behaviors that most cats aren’t too fond of. Are you guilty of doing any of these things that your cat probably hates?

1. Taking Your Cat For Car Rides

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Sure, dogs love riding in cars. They love to hang their heads out the window, and they get excited about going for a walk. But although you will sometimes find cats who love walking outside on a harness, you won’t find many cats who love riding in cars.

You see, cats are very territorial and they love routine. When you change things up, it can freak them out.

They also can get motion sickness really easily. So you may end up with a poor cat who’s vomiting or even defecating out of sickness and anxiety!

Don’t take your cat for a car ride unless it’s a necessity or unless you’ve already found out that they’re one of the rare cats who likes a good joy ride.

You may be able train your cat to feel more comfortable and relaxed in the car if need be, but talk to your vet and find a solution that works best for your individual feline.

2. Going On Play Dates

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This is another huge way in which cats are very different from dogs. You can take dogs to dog parks where they’ll play with stranger dogs and have a great time. But not cats.

Cats like to stake their claim, so unless you have a super friendly cat, they probably won’t want to visit your friend’s house or meet your friend’s cats.

Felines are very territorial and typically don’t like meeting new cats or smelling strange cat scents. So introducing them to a cat for just a few hours can be a sure way to invite hissing and flying fur. (This is also why cats don’t like seeing themselves in mirrors.)

3. Bathing Your Cat

I have a cat who loves baths, but this is rare. Most cats are just fine with bathing themselves–without water.

On rare occasions they may need a bath, but this could be painful for both of you. Don’t do it unless absolutely necessary.

If you must give kitty a bath, read this article for tips.

4. Not Cleaning The Litter Box Enough

Just because your cat covers their poop and pee doesn’t mean they won’t need the litter box changed frequently. In fact, even if you think the litter box is fine, kitty might think differently.

A cat has a sense of smell that is 14 times stronger than yours. If they’re pooping right outside the box instead of using it, they might be trying to tell you something.

Make sure you clean the box at least once a day.

5. Petting Your Cat Too Much

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Cats can get overstimulated with very little warning. That’s why you may be petting your cat, and they’re purring one minute and suddenly hissing or scratching you the next.

Figure out your cat’s personality and learn from your mistakes. Some cats need to be petted gently or only on the head, neck, and upper back.

This may also mean that you may need to teach your children how to play gently with your cat, too.

6. Fighting Loudly Or Playing Loud Music

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Sure, no one loves to fight, but your cat may hate your fights even more than you do!

Many cats are very sensitive to loud noises. Thunderstorms, doorbells, loud music, and even yelling can get them really scared.

Try to keep things as calm as you can and don’t blast the TV or the stereo too much. If your cat seems too sensitive or anxious, try buying a diffuser that emits a scent that mimics a cat’s calming pheromones. This can sometimes help.

7. Leaving Food Out For Too Long Or Serving It Cold

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If you feed your cat wet food in addition to dry food, don’t leave the wet food out for so long that it gets stale.

Dangerous bacteria can grow in food that’s left out for even a day. So put out small portions that you only leave around for 30 minutes.

In addition, some cats hate cold food. If you’ve got some canned food in the refrigerator, let it “thaw” to room temperature before you give it to kitty.

8. Ignoring Them

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Cats may fend for themselves well, but they don’t like being alone or ignored.

Take time to play with your cat every day. They likely have a lot of pent-up energy from being in the house all the time. This means they need some engaging play time with you to get exercise.

Play time can also be a great way to bond with your cat and build their trust in you.

What other things do you do that you think your cat might secretly hate? What do you do to make your kitty happy? Let us know in the comments below!