If there’s something that cat guardians know, it’s that cats have boundaries and will aggressively defend them. I’ve come across many a reel on social media where a cat and its human are interacting in a way that viewers may find worrying. You see it in the comments, “you shouldn’t pet your cat that way” or “that’s too rough, and you’re a terrible person for treating them that way.”

For the last 20 years I’ve been lucky to have cats as companions, both in my childhood home and as an adult with my own family. One thing that rings true for each of those feisty felines is that they communicate boundaries. Their posture, body language, and their fur will visually alert you to their opinion of a situation. They will vocalize their displeasure, leave the environment, or even draw blood with tooth or claw (learned this trying to bathe my Pretty Kitty; at 10 years old she has had 2 whole baths).

Respect Your Cat Day is an excellent reminder to tune in to your cat’s frequency. Be mindful and observant in your play time, in those quiet moments of relaxed cuddles and pets, and during the hunger of mealtime. The opportunity to learn more about your cat as a sentient being, existing in parallel to your days with a much shorter timeline. You are an anchor in their perception of the world, and you are meant to live joyfully!

I challenge you to bring home a new toy, and play with your tiny hunter! Maybe a feather-wand, or kicking toy, or laser pointer is something they’ve never seen or haven’t played with in some time. I challenge you to pet your cat in peculiar ways: pet in different directions, ruffle, scritch and pat. Maybe they lean into your hand, or purr loudly, or flop over for more. Pay attention, and honor the “no” when it’s presented. I encourage you to treat your cat to some baby food in a jar, like chicken (turkey isn’t popular, I’ve tried 😹), or a portion of unseasoned seared fish. Set them a place at the table to have lunch with you. Make it special!

This sense of awareness is important to your relationship with your cat, and to their well-being. Yes, predictability and routine is wonderful for feeling safe. However, delight, curiosity and wonder are tantamount to enrichment and living well; for your cat and for you! These are small and beautiful things, and I invite you to find joy together in the mundane.

I’d love to hear what you do to stay tuned in. What do you pay particular attention to when it comes to your cat cohabitant?