What is the right balance between being pestered by the humans, but also ensuring that they continue to dispense treats, toys and scritches when desired? I find that sometimes my protests for peace are met with further physical disruption and need help controlling their behavior.
Sincerely,
Cleo in Oakland
Dear Cleo,
Your question is an age-old question around the classic human/cat dynamic. We cats love our humans, in spite of their ugly hairless appearance, and needy nature. However, sometimes the neediness is just too much.
If your human is excessively needy, I would recommend reassuring them that even though you might not always show it, you do love them. I'd calmly remind them that love is not attachment, and suggest that they look internally for the love and validation that they so desperately seek. Then I would suggest a few hobbies to them, like string chasing or napping, so that they leave you alone for a bit.
Unfortunately, I recently learned that not all humans are fluent in Cat, so they might just laugh at you when you make these proclamations. If that's the case, then I'd recommend just batting the human in the face, claws out, every couple of weeks. They won't stop feeding you, I promise. And the scritches will keep coming. The occasional spontaneous face swipe just keeps them in line and reminds them who's boss.
Hope that helps!
XOXO,
Bubbles
Cleo sent this photo of her helping his human work on their clicky box:
I’m thrilled! A cameo by Ms. de Catrio!
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