Himanshu Choudhary on Unsplash
Cats have a reputation for being low-maintenance, and that’s exactly how they getcha! Some people think they arrive with a little on/off switch for affection and plenty of independence. Then you bring one home, and you learn that “easy” isn’t what you thought it would be. A cat can be surprisingly demanding in ways you might not anticipate. Let’s dive into a few key things to keep in mind.
Their Schedule is Your Schedule
Cats nap like professionals, but they also decide when the household should wake up. Early-morning zoomies, dramatic meowing, and a paw to the face can turn your alarm clock into a suggestion rather than a rule.
Litter Box Cleaning Takes Real Effort
A litter box isn’t hard to clean in theory, but it does demand consistent attention if you want your house to smell like a home—not a cat’s bathroom. Scooping daily, replacing litter, and washing the box regularly are nonnegotiable, especially since cats notice changes faster than you’d expect.
Scratching is a Project
You might buy a scratching post and assume the issue’s solved, only to watch your cat choose the sofa anyway. Scratching is normal, so the real challenge is redirecting it without turning your living room into a furniture triage unit.
Vet Costs Sneak Up On You
Cats only seem self-sufficient, but they need care just like any other animal. Routine exams and surprise issues can add up quickly. If you want peace of mind, you’ll likely consider pet insurance or a dedicated savings cushion.
They’re Only Subtle Communicators
A cat won’t always announce discomfort in an obvious way, so you end up learning a new language. Expect to see plenty of posture, tail flicks, and strategic hiding! Behavioral changes can also mean anything from boredom to illness, and figuring it out takes patience.
