Is your cat acting upset or anxious? Are its body language and behaviors, like improper bathroom habits, giving off negative signals? What’s troubling your cat might actually be something that bothers you as well. From unclean litter boxes to stale food to excessively loud music, cats and humans often share similar annoyances. Surprisingly, you could be unintentionally making some common mistakes as a pet owner that contribute to these issues. But don’t worry—we’re here to help! Here’s how to fix the things that cats dislike the most.

Cats Hate Feeling Lonely:

Despite common belief, cats aren’t truly solitary animals! While it’s true they can be left alone longer than dogs, cats still seek attention, companionship, and love, just like other pets—or even humans. If left alone for too long, a cat may become stressed, anxious, or even depressed.

If your schedule is busy, make sure to dedicate a few minutes each day for quality time with your cat. Even 15 minutes of play every few hours can keep it content and healthy. An even better option? Think about adopting a second cat, so they always have a companion. Otherwise, be prepared for them to follow you everywhere—even to the bathroom!

Cats Hate Dirty Litter Boxes:

Using a dirty toilet—whether in public or at home—is unpleasant, and cats feel the same about unclean litter boxes.

It’s essential to clean your cat’s litter box daily or at least every other day, depending on how many cats you have and their bathroom habits. If daily scooping isn’t for you, consider getting a self-cleaning litter box.

Maintaining a clean litter box involves more than just scooping. Based on the type of litter you use, how often you scoop, and the number of cats, the litter should be replaced roughly every two weeks.

Cats Hate Spoiled Food:

Just like you wouldn’t want to eat spoiled food, your cat doesn’t either. Not only does raw or spoiled food taste bad, but it can also make your cat sick. Bacteria like Salmonella and Staphylococcus can develop in food left out for too long, especially in warmer weather.

When serving your cat’s meals, always check the expiration dates on both wet and dry food. If you often have leftovers, you might need to reconsider how much food your cat actually needs. Your vet can help determine the right amount based on your cat’s breed, age, and activity level.

Cats Hate Yucky Medicine:

When you’re feeling unwell, taking unpleasant-tasting medicine is the last thing you want, and cats feel the same way. Many cats will foam at the mouth or spit out medication.

Whether your cat needs meds for an illness or has a chronic condition requiring regular doses, it’s important to make the process more pleasant for them. Start by training your cat to feel comfortable with its face and mouth being handled, pairing this with treats to create a positive association. Establish a regular medication routine, so your cat knows what to expect.

If giving pills is still a struggle, try using soft treats with pockets designed to hide medication.

Cats Hate Overly Aggressive Petting:

If you have a cat, you’re likely aware that there are specific spots where it enjoys being petted—and touching the wrong area might lead to hissing, scratching, or biting. Cats can be quite sensitive to touch, so it’s crucial to know where and how to pet them.

To keep your cat content, focus on petting around its head and neck, as cats often groom each other in these areas. They typically dislike being petted along their entire back, so it’s best to avoid that. Pay close attention to your cat’s behavior and body language to recognize what types of petting are acceptable and which are not.

Cats Hate Competition From Other Cats:

Cats can become jealous of each other when competing for food, space, toys, or their owners’ attention. This jealousy or resource guarding can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior, which may be misdirected depending on the circumstances.

For instance, if a house cat feels threatened by an outdoor cat but can’t confront it directly, it may redirect that aggression toward another cat inside the home.

Cats Hate Loud Noises:

Loud noises and commotion, such as thunderstorms, arguments, and fireworks, can significantly stress out your cat. Chronic stress from these sounds may lead to various behavioral and health problems, including skittishness, aggression, or depression, as well as issues like hair loss, reduced appetite, and excessive grooming.

While it can be challenging, it’s important to minimize your cat’s exposure to loud noises. Try to keep it in a quiet, safe area when guests are visiting or during inclement weather, and avoid playing loud music or turning up the TV volume excessively.