If you ask around, you can find a variety of opinions about cats. Some are quite complimentary and some are very negative. The debate often becomes quite heated when comparing cats to dogs. Let’s face it — they are different creatures and a comparison often does not take into consideration all factors. Let’s take a look at some of the controversial opinions about cats.
It’s True — A Cat is A Selfish Creature
First, scientists point out that cats are basically selfish. They look out for number one. It has been shown as truth in my experience that cats decide what they want and do whatever they can to get it. They are manipulators. Being more used to taking care of themselves than dogs, it seems a given that they will do what they can to gain their desires. Perhaps a basic reason stems from the fact that dogs are pack animals and rely on the group to help them gain their goals. When there is no group, dogs allow themselves to incorporate their human companions to become their pack, and then it is natural that the human becomes the animal they rely on.
My Mocha is a prime manipulator. He will try various techniques to get me to do what he wants, and when he finds one that works, he will use it repeatedly. He is also extremely stubborn. If he doesn’t get his way, he can hold out for a long time in hopes I’ll come around to his point of view. You have to admire such determination, even if it can be very frustrating.
Sociality and Cats
There are certain myths perpetrated about cats that just aren’t true. Many believe that cats are not social with each other. This belief is not necessarily true. Social interaction with other cats can be influenced by genetics, early development, and life experiences. Your cat will have a preference either to bonding with other cats or remaining alone.
Some say that cats prefer minimal interaction with people. If you have a cat with whom you have established a strong bond, you will know that this belief is also false. Again, it depends on the cat’s lifetime experiences, as well as the present living situation. I’ve noticed that if the owner does not interact with the cat, no social bond will develop. If the cat receives a lot of attention with humans, he will be more apt to enjoy such treatment. Such attention can include talking to the cat, playing with him, or perhaps petting him. If the cat becomes merely an observer with no interaction, he will not form a bond with a human.
Recognize Your Cat’s Needs and Abilities
If you truly want to enjoy the most benefit from living with a cat, there are factors that are important. The animal needs quality environment and positive experience. He needs access to safe hiding places. His key resources, such as feeding, drinking, place to eliminate, a scratching post and sleeping, will prove most helpful. In addition, positive and consistent human-cat interactions become mandatory.
Believe it or not, your cat can be trained. With repetition and rewards, he can perform a variety of tricks. He needs incentive, however, What’s in it for him? Are the rewards sufficient to hold his attention? A good example includes how well he responds when he is called. Many cats, though they know their name, won’t bother to respond unless they feel it’s worth their while. I had to work with Mocha to get him to come when I called him. My trick: When I called, I’d shake his container of his favorite kibble, and when he finally came in, I’d give him a treat. It’s taken months, but now he will come when he is called without hearing the kibble container. I do always give him a small treat as a reward for doing what I desire.
Cats and Love
Does your cat truly love you? No, the cat is not as demonstrative as the dog. The cat is more subtle. However, if you learn to read the signs, you will see that he cares in his own way. Yes, he rubs against you just to mark you as “his”. Yes, he may purr to manipulate. However, though selfish pleasure becomes his reward when he receives the attention, he also returns the gift by letting you know he’s pleased. He can also show loyalty and caring through his own unique ways. A cat curled up in your lap or next to you or giving you slow blinks (kitty kisses) can warm your heart.
Cats: Independent or Neglected?
One important action all of us cat owners can take is to learn more about cat psychology and behavior. Paying attention to the way the cat communicates, for example, by body language, can produce a deeper level of companionship and a stronger bond.
Stories of neglect abound, usually stemming from misunderstanding feline behavior. Some well-meaning owners misinterpret a cat’s independence as needing little to no interaction, potentially leading to a lack of enrichment in the cat’s life. Simple actions like interactive play sessions or just sitting quietly while they explore gives cats the engagement they require.
When Attention is Desired
Cats show their desire for interaction in subtle yet clear ways. They might nuzzle for attention or softly paw at you, signaling they enjoy and need your company. Fostering this connection can build a stronger bond and ensures your cat stays happy and healthy. Paying attention to their cues and providing entertainment, whether through toys or companionship, helps them thrive.
My cat has several favorite places to sleep. However, at night, he always sleeps with me for most of the night. Even if he just wants to keep an eye on me to make sure his meal ticket doesn’t disappear, it’s pleasing to know he’s on the bed with me. He gives me companionship and shows affection, and for me, those items are rewarding.
The Conservationists’ View
What about the conservationists who rail against cats because of the birds and wildlife that are killed each year by felines? Well, they certainly have a point. Feral cats and strays may kill as many as four billion birds and two billion small mammals each year. Some of the birds may be on the verge of extinction.
According to science, any animal that threatens biodiversity is considered a harmful invasive species. Yes, feral and stray cats present a problem. Not all cats can be domesticated and turned into a much-loved pet. Some kind of control measure is necessary. The jury is still out on the best way to handle this problem. We must find the best means to address this issue.
Debate on Indoor vs Outdoor Living
Does your cat live indoors or roam freely outside? Consider the options. Outdoor cats enjoy a more varied and stimulating environment, which can keep them physically active and mentally engaged. They love exploring and hunting, satisfying their natural instincts. However, the outdoors also present dangers like traffic, predators, and exposure to diseases.
Environmental impact is another aspect to consider. Outdoor cats can have a significant effect on local wildlife, particularly bird populations. For some, the ecological consequences play a big role in the decision to keep their cats primarily indoors.
Indoor cats, on the other hand, generally face fewer threats and tend to live longer. Keeping a cat indoors protects them from many potential hazards, but it’s essential to ensure they still receive enough stimulation to prevent boredom. Interactive toys, climbing structures, or even harness training for safe outdoor experiences offer great ways to engage a housebound feline.
My Personal Experience
Most of my cats have enjoyed limited time outdoors. They went out after breakfast in the morning and came in around 4:00. We’ve lost a few birds, but I’ve worked with the cats to teach them to leave birds alone…a sometimes success. I’ve also been fortunate to live in remote areas where other dangers were not present.
When I first got Mocha I did not let him out. He was originally a feral cat that I got from the shelter, and I feared he would disappear if allowed outside. After about a year and a half, I began letting him out for a couple of hours in the morning. The rattle of the kibble can has always brought him home. This method seems a nice compromise. Whatever you choose, work with your cat so you both know the ground rules. It’s rewarding to succeed in such a project.
I also had a catio built behind my house that Mocha accesses through a window in my office. It seems to help, as he spends a little of time there, observing what’s going on around him.
Learn About Your Cat and Create Trust and Understanding
Your cat can become a true asset to your family if you interact and learn from each other. It is important to understand the cat’s needs and the instinctual reasons for his behavior. Teach him, as he can learn. Yes, he wants his own way, just as little children often do. It’s up to you to train him what is permitted and what is off-limits. In return, respect him and provide him with the basic elements he requires for a satisfactory life.
References I used for this post:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/animal-minds/202309/5-harmful-feline-myths-debunked
https://www.vox.com/2014/10/16/6982177/the-case-against-owning-cats
https://www.the-scientist.com/opinion-are-cats-friends-or-fiends-70642