6 Rules for Coexisting with Cats

6 Rules for Coexisting with Cats

Last update: 18 June, 2018

They say that cats are one of the most difficult species to understand . Surely those who are cat lovers do not agree. But it is true that understanding a cat can be more difficult than understanding an animal that is less expressive. If you have a cat (or are planning on having one), and it has become hard for you to adapt, this list of 6 rules for coexisting with cats should be a big help.

List of rules for coexisting with cats

This guide has been developed with the help of expert veterinarians, and it will help us to understand a little more about this species that has been sharing their lives with humans for over 9000 years. Some say it’s as simple as the cat seemingly saying “let me sleep and I’ll leave you alone”. However, we are going to tell you a few more rules to help you out.

If this is the first time you’re going to have a cat, remember: it isn’t a dog

We already know that both species are different. But when we adopt a cat for the first time, we may expect similar behaviors to those in dogs, and this is a huge mistake. An illustrator known as “Puño” explained it in the following manner:

“The dog is a wolf that approached our camp fires and was forcefully domesticated, which is why they can tolerate yelling and domination well. However, the cat willingly approached the barns that we built in the desert, attracted by the rodents that were accumulating inside of them. This is why they feel a natural curiosity about humans and they get angry forever if you punish them, shout at them or even think about laying a hand on them, even if only lightly.”

Person petting a cat on the floor

Your house is no longer your own

Once you adopt a cat , your house is officially their house. Felines are territorial and take over everything that surrounds them. So, don’t forget: it’s not you who has a cat, it’s your cat who has a human. Your cat likes you and is letting you live with him or her.

If you let him sleep even one night with you, prepare for a lifetime of nights accompanied by your cat.

Although cats are very independent, as previously stated, they are territorial. They are also quite affectionate. This means if you let your cat sleep in your bed once, you will have to do it every night.

If you don’t think that you will be happy with your cat climbing on top of you every night and waking you up, it is best that you keep your cat out of your room completely.

If you enjoy the company of your cat while you sleep, then let it join you. However, if you are single and you have anyone sleep over, you have to know that there will be three of you in the bed, not two!

Relax! Your cat loves you

Cats are definitely not as expressive as dogs, who are so happy to see us or to be with us that sometimes it seems as if they are smiling at us. But relax, because your cat loves you. But he or she doesn’t feel the need to party or throw him or herself at you. Your cat will probably just scratch its nails on its favorite place or rub up against your leg a lot to show it´s affection.

Cat laying on a cat bed

If you live with a cat you will need:

  • A vacuum cleaner
  • A lint roller
  • A fine-toothed comb or brush

There is one disadvantage to living with a cat: they shed a lot of fur . Everywhere and anywhere you look will be full of your cat’s fur. You can say goodbye to your black clothes, and we really hope that you don’t have a velvet couch.

Brush your cat’s fur daily and vacuum your home every day so that the fur does not accumulate, because you could develop an allergy if you do not stay on top of these.

If your cat isn’t purring…

They say that cats purr when they are comfortable, but that doesn’t mean they’re uncomfortable when they don´t purr. However, it can also be indicative that something is not right.

Sometimes cats purr when they are in pain or are sick. If you think your cat’s purring is out of the ordinary, immediately take him or her to a trusted veterinarian.

Being attentive about these rules for coexisting with cats will make both your life, and your cat’s life, easier.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.