Have you ever caught your cat staring at you with that sly, knowing look, as if they’re plotting their next move? If you’re a devoted dog lover now living with a cat, you might feel like you’ve stepped into a world where the rules have been rewritten—and not necessarily in your favor. Cats have a mysterious way of getting what they want, often without you even realizing you’ve lost the upper hand. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in feeling outsmarted by a creature the size of a loaf of bread. Let’s pull back the curtain on the secret power play happening right under your nose, and discover the telltale signs that your feline has taken over—or that you’re still running the show.
Your Cat Dictates Your Sleep Schedule
If you find yourself waking up at the crack of dawn, not to the sound of an alarm, but to the persistent meowing, pawing, or even gentle nibbles from your cat, it’s a clear sign they’re calling the shots. Unlike dogs, who might patiently wait for you to stir, cats have no qualms about disrupting your dreams for breakfast or attention. Some cats even master the art of “accidentally” knocking things off your nightstand, making sure you can’t ignore them. This behavior isn’t just about hunger—it’s about establishing dominance. When you rearrange your sleep for their sake, you’re following their rules, not yours.
Your Cat Chooses the Best Seat in the House
Have you noticed your cat always seems to find the sunniest spot, the softest pillow, or even your freshly folded laundry? Cats have an uncanny knack for claiming the coziest or most desirable locations in your home, often displacing you in the process. If you find yourself sitting on the floor while your cat sprawls across your favorite chair, congratulations—you’ve been overthrown. Unlike dogs, who might settle for a designated bed, cats see every surface as a potential throne. Their comfort comes first, and you end up fitting your life around their lounging preferences.
Your Cat Ignores Commands (and Knows It)
Trying to train a cat like a dog is an exercise in humility. While dogs might eagerly sit or stay, cats will stare back at you with that infamous feline indifference. If your cat routinely ignores your requests—whether it’s to get off the counter or stop scratching the couch—they’re reinforcing their role as the boss. You might even notice that your cat seems to understand exactly what you want, but chooses to do the opposite. This stubborn independence is their way of reminding you who’s really in charge of the household.
Your Cat Controls Playtime
Does your cat bring you toys at odd hours, only to lose interest the moment you engage? Cats are experts at orchestrating play on their own terms. Unlike dogs, who might play fetch until your arm gives out, cats decide when and how long a play session will last. If you find yourself scrambling to entertain your cat with a laser pointer or feather wand, only to have them walk away mid-game, it’s a pretty good sign they’re manipulating the situation. In this game, you’re just a player, and your cat is the referee.
Your Cat Sets the Meal Times
If your cat has trained you to serve meals at specific times—whether by meowing, pacing, or simply giving you “the look”—they’ve successfully established a routine that benefits them. Some cats become so adept at this that their humans can’t help but jump up the moment a food bowl rattles. Unlike dogs, who often wait patiently, cats expect prompt service and can become quite vocal if their schedule is disrupted. If you’re planning your day around their feeding times, it’s a clear sign they’re running the kitchen.
Your Cat Demands Attention—Then Withdraws It
Cats are masters of mixed signals. One moment, they’re rubbing against your legs, demanding pets or cuddles. The next, they’re stalking off as if deeply offended by your touch. If you find yourself constantly guessing when your cat wants affection, only to be rejected at the last second, they’re definitely running the show. The unpredictability keeps you on your toes, always striving to please. This push-and-pull dynamic is a classic way cats maintain the upper paw in their relationships with humans.
You Decide Where the Cat Sleeps
Now, let’s switch gears. If you’ve managed to keep your cat sleeping in a designated bed or area, rather than on your pillow or laptop keyboard, you may still have some control. While cats love to roam and claim territory, setting boundaries around sleeping spots can tip the balance in your favor. Using cozy, inviting beds in specific areas can gently encourage your cat to settle where you want them, rather than wherever they please. When you reclaim your space, you’re setting the rules—and your cat knows it.
You Set the Rules for Furniture
Do you have a strict “no cats on the counters” rule, and your feline actually listens? That’s a victory worth celebrating. While it might require patience, consistency, and the occasional squirt bottle, enforcing boundaries helps assert your authority. Unlike dogs, cats are less motivated by praise or treats, so sticking to your guns is crucial. If your cat respects these limits (even most of the time), you’re proving that humans can, in fact, lay down the law in a cat-dominated world.
You Keep Feeding Times Consistent
Maintaining a strict feeding schedule, rather than caving to constant meowing or “starving” looks, puts you firmly in control. If your cat knows food will only appear at certain times, and you stick to those times no matter how dramatic their protests, you’re establishing yourself as the provider with rules. This consistency isn’t just good for your authority—it’s also healthier for your cat. By resisting the urge to feed on demand, you reinforce the idea that you’re the one calling the shots.
You’re in Charge of Playtime
It’s a proud moment when you can entice your cat into play, and then decide when the session ends. If you can get your cat to engage with toys or games on your schedule, rather than theirs, you’re showing leadership. Some cats will test your resolve by walking away or losing interest, but by varying toys and keeping sessions short and sweet, you can turn the tables. When you’re the one initiating and ending playtime, you’re reminding your cat that you have a say in the fun, too.
You Control Grooming and Healthcare
If your cat tolerates being brushed, having nails trimmed, or taking medicine without turning into a tiny tornado, you’re definitely in charge—at least in these moments. Most cats don’t enjoy grooming or vet visits, and will make their displeasure known. But if you’ve built trust and established routines where your cat cooperates, it’s a sign that they respect your authority. Regular grooming not only keeps your cat healthy, but also reinforces your role as the caretaker and decision-maker.
You Decide When to Give (and Withhold) Treats
Every cat loves a tasty treat, but if you’re the one deciding when and how often treats are given, you’re the real boss. It’s easy to fall into the trap of doling out snacks every time your cat looks at you with those big, pleading eyes. But by setting limits and sticking to them, you reinforce healthy boundaries and remind your cat that you’re in control of the goodies. This small act, repeated daily, helps tip the balance of power back in your favor, one treat at a time.
