Cats are curious by nature, so it’s probably safe to assume they have a lot of questions that they would love to ask their human. No one has invented a meow translator (yet) and we don’t speak “cat,” but we’ve thought of five questions that your cat has probably been scratching to ask you about. National Answer Your Cat’s Question Day is January 22, but any day is good day to answer your kitty’s queries.
Question 1: Why can’t I sit on your laptop — it’s a LAP-top?
Whether it’s on your lap or on your desk, a laptop seems to be a beacon calling cats to walk across it, sit on it or stare intently into the circle with the green dot. It’s shiny, warm and near you, so who can blame them? And who doesn’t like the distraction of a cat walking across the screen during an hour-long video call?
Answer: Sorry, it’s not a heat pad or a toy, and your pet parent needs the laptop to work (or watch other cats doing cute things).
Question 2: Why can’t I have just one more treat?
You probably don’t need a translator to know when your cat’s asking this question. But it’s important that you stay firm and limit your cat’s treat intake. Whether it’s table food (which you should say no to all the time) or a cat-formulated treat or dental treat, treats should account for less than 10 percent of your cat’s daily calories. Treats can contribute to obesity in cats, which can cause health issues such as diabetes, urinary tract disease and arthritis.
Answer: Too many treats can lead to health issues, and that means more trips to the vet!
Question 3: Why do you insist on taking me to that place (aka the vet clinic)?
This is another question that’s easily interpreted from the snarls and hisses coming from the cat carrier. Some cats love the car ride and the under-the-chin scratches from their vet, but for others this is their definition of Worst. Day. Ever. But as much as they may despise you in the hours afterwards, a regular checkup is the best way to keep your cat as healthy as possible. It’s a good idea to have your cat examined by their veterinarian at least annually or more often, depending on their age or health issues.
Answer: The vet makes sure you’re healthy so you can keep playing “chase the red dot.” And no, we don’t know the answer to the question, “Why can’t I ever catch the red dot?”
Question 4: Why is there a DOG living with us?
Some cats and dogs are best buds and are often found snuggling together on the couch. Others are mortal enemies and want nothing to do with each other. If your cat fits the latter scenario, they’re probably asking you this question every day — whether you realize it or not. There are steps you can take to foster the dog-cat relationship when you first introduce them, but if it’s too late for that, just make sure your cat has plenty of escape routes and a safe, dog-free zone to relax in.
Answer: Dogs are our friends, too. Try to be nice to the dog, Kitty.
Question 5: Why can’t I knock things off the counter?
As much fun as it is for your cat to see objects spill, break or make noises as they roll off the counter, this is definitely not a fun game for most pet parents. Cats like to jump and climb up high to explore new places. And if they’re bored, inquisitive or just being downright obnoxious, this could mean some things end up on the floor. Check out our post on countering counter-commanding cats for some tips on preventing this behavior.
Answer: That can make a big mess, which is not going to make your pet parent happy.
Does your cat actually want to know the answers to these questions? We’ll never know, but it’s fun to think about. Remember to ask your veterinarian if you have any questions about your cat’s behavior, health, nutrition or any other concerns.
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