ADVERTISEMENT

Cattitude is a term that every feline lover perfectly understands. It’s not a word that casually appears in the dictionary, but all that cat-indifferent people need to know is that every mouser believes they’re the rulers of the world and aren’t afraid to show it. It almost seems like they have respect for no one and their second name is anarchy. 

However, it doesn’t make us love them any less. In fact, they might earn our affection even more for it. Bored Panda is here to keep the love going with this Facebook page full of instances when cats were being their lovable jerk selves. Scroll down to find the crème de la crème of nuisances, and don’t forget to upvote the ones that made you feel for their owners the most.

While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out a conversation with cat groomer and behaviour consultant Sarah Wendling and certified feline behavior consultant Heather Alvey, who kindly agreed to answer the question, “Are cats really jerks or just misunderstood?”

RELATED:

    “I believe that language is really important and I don't like calling cats "jerks" or any other derogatory names,” says certified feline behavior consultant Heather Alvey

    “To be called a jerk, I believe there needs to be a bad intention behind the offensive behavior. Cats have reasons for their behaviors, but they don't have the capacity to purposely act in a way that will upset us. Depending on what the undesired behavior is, it could be resulting from stress, conditioning, or even something that has been inadvertently reinforced by the human,” she further explains.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    “There's definitely more to their behaviour than meets the eye!” agrees cat groomer and behaviour consultant Sarah Wendling. “Cats, unlike dogs and humans, aren't pack animals, so they can show affection/discontent in different ways. 

    It's also important to note both the cat's history and personality. For example, a cat from outside who wasn't raised around humans is going to be more nervous around them. And some cats are just very sensitive to changes, even ones that seem insignificant to humans.”

    ADVERTISEMENT

    In addition, she notes that owners don’t always understand the cues when cats want to be left alone, causing them to react in ways they find to be negative. “A common example is aggressive reactions to petting. People will say they were petting the cat and they were fine, then all of a sudden, the cat is swatting, hissing or biting. Some cats love petting, but only for a set amount of time.” It’s the same with us, humans. If we don't enjoy doing something after a certain amount of time, we want it to stop. 

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #10

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    @redford Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Edith
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    All cats do that - they are like gangsters come and collect your daily payment and you are happy to give it 😂

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #11

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    G A
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have black pillowcases. The amount of times I've gone to put my head down on the two cats curled up together....

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu

    Another thing that might make cats “jerks” in our eyes is that they’re very honest animals, says Wendling. “A common saying we have is "if you don't understand consent, you won't understand cats.” They don't have the social structure of humans, who sometimes engage in social interactions they don't want to due to society pressure.

    So, if they don't want to do it, they won't. And they'll often let you know. Because we think of humans who behave like that as jerks, we transfer that to our cats. But in reality, they just interact with the world differently and it's important to meet them where they are,” she explains.

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #14

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Sedona
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Adopted a tuxedo baby and hoped she would turn into a big fluffy girl. 3 years and still waiting.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu

    Alvey acknowledges that cats can definitely exhibit behaviors that are problematic for their owners but it’s important to identify why the pet is acting that way. “Once we understand what's going on with the cat, we can work on behavior modification using fear-free methods and positive reinforcement.”

    Wendling suggests that problematic behaviors basically stem from nurture and nature. “Nurture is how a cat was raised and interacted with humans prior to living with their owners and this will have a big impact. Were they around humans as small kittens or not? If you're adopting an adult cat, what was their previous home like? People always worry about abuse, but it doesn't have to be that severe to really impact how a cat sees the world.”

    It could’ve been that the pet wasn’t simply interacted with, which can take a lot to overcome. “If you have a shy or nervous cat, patience and empathy are going to go a long way,” she assures.

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #16

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Ty Stratton-Quirk
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's a look that says, "I just ate half a mouse, left the other half on your pillow, and barfed in your slippers."

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu

    Meanwhile, nature is the cat's basic personality, says Wendling. “Just like people, cats have different personalities. Some are extremely cautious and nervous, some are very friendly and outgoing. Cats can express nervousness through fight, flight, or freeze. So, that cat hissing at you may not be angry, they may just be scared and trying to get you to back off. And if they're nervous by nature, they are easily distressed and will do better in a calm environment.”

    Felines might also act out while trying to get attention they want. “So, if every time your cat jumps on the counter, you go over and pick them up, you've trained them that counter jumping = attention. Cats can get curious and bored as well, just like humans. So they may play with things that aren't toys, like your water glass on the table.”

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #20

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    whineygingercat
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There is NOTHING going wrong that can't be fixed by looking at these two things. Even better if the cat attached to them is cuddled up next to/on you purring

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu

    Owners who wish to foster a more positive relationship with their pet and reduce the so-called “cattitude” should learn to identify their subtle signs so they don’t have to resort to more extreme ones, say the experts. Just like with the previous petting example Wendling gave us. “You should watch your cat closely for subtle signs they want to stop. This can include shifting slightly away from you, the tail whipping around, or moving their head away.”

    She also recommends making sure the cat isn’t bored. “In addition to play time, have places for them to look out windows. Getting a good scratch post is essential. It's not just for conditioning their claws—amongst other benefits, it's a stress reliever. Playing with your cat helps too—remember that play mimics hunting. Training can also be a fun activity that uses the cat's brain and is a bonding activity with their owner.”

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #23

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    whineygingercat
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I'll take the cat. Oh, you meant it's the HOUSE for sale, not the CAT? Nevermind.

    View more commentsArrow down menu

    Most importantly, remember to never punish your cat, or any animal for that matter. “There's been a lot of research into why punishment doesn't work, but the gist of it is that punishment only suppresses a behaviour, it doesn't stop it. That means that if the punishment stops, the behaviour will return. Or that if the benefits to the cat of what they want outweigh their fear of the punishment, they'll do it anyway. Think of it like kids who sneak a candy bar they know they shouldn't or who act out in class in spite of the threat of detention.”

    #25

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    G A
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Accompanied by a wahwah trumpet rendition of "Old Man River"

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT

    If you understand and foster positive relationships with your pet, it will award you with affection too! “A cat eating, grooming, or sleeping with their back to you shows that they trust you—they're engaging in a vulnerable activity and not on high alert. If your cat behaves in ways that show they trust you, take it as a compliment. A cat approaching with a relaxed gate and tail up like a question mark is displaying friendly behavior, as is one who rubs their face or sides on your legs,” says Wendling.

    ADVERTISEMENT
    #34

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    whineygingercat
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Well, my kitty carriers are a little small, but we'll figure it out. Yes, ill make sure the kids have toys to play with in the carriers.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #38

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    G A
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    One braincell between them. And I mean the copiers....

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    #39

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Aerial (Any pronouns/Canadian/Jewish)
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My cat this morning, staring directly into my eyes and then trying to eat the dirt from my mom's aloe. She's a little menace, but we love her. Most of the time.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #42

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    whineygingercat
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There is NOTHING like having the love of a cat 🐱🐈=❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #43

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Diolla
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I must admit that this one does look like there's not much going on inside that cute litte head of hers.

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    #48

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are A**holes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    whineygingercat
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not only will I PET the people hating cat, I'll get the cat to purr and follow me when I get up to leave.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    Continue reading with Bored Panda Premium
    Unlimited content
    Ad-free browsing
    Dark mode
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #58

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Pernille
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I had a cat many years ago, he had an emotional support G-string that he fished out of my laundry, it was kind of embarrassing when I had guests.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #63

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    leadfoot_mf Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    whineygingercat
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You mean she didn't MAKE the afgan? At least I MADE the afgan my cat sleeps on. I made it out of yarn that had once been a scarf I made.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #68

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Bin Miggy
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    My old rescue (dog) could not lie down on his side because of how much time he spent in a cage with three other dogs. I massaged his back and eventually he could. AND.. he snored like a freight train in his basket. It made me so happy to know he was comfy and I would fall right asleep.

    #69

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    G A
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You forgot US, Geoff. We are DEEPLY disappointed in you....

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #71

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Shark Lady
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Kitty chaos is perfectly acceptable in my home, human chaos is not.

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #74

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Pernille
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Always remember to cut the handles on paper bags. Yes I know that it makes them useless for carrying things in, but I have been reliably informed that that is not in fact their intended purpose.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #75

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    G A
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Ahhh hello, I'm collecting local management fees. If you could just open the box for me to take mine?

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #84

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    G A
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I bought one as my big lad likes to perch on my chest when I'm working and it's difficult to work one handed

    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #86

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #88

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    whineygingercat
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Nah, mine just lay down and roll ALL OVER THEM to ensure I'm wearing as much of their fur as they are.

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #92

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    Jane Jayne Jain Jeign Jein
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Especially in summer when they don't need you. (If you haven't heard the song "Woody" by Hayden you're missing out on a beautiful ode to his cat)

    ADVERTISEMENT
    See Also on Bored Panda
    #96

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    G A
    Community Member
    4 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's what happens when you get up on the kitchen counters, Baldy....

    View More Replies...
    View more commentsArrow down menu
    #98

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST
    #100

    Cats-Being-Funny-Jerks-Memes-Pics

    Cats are Assholes Report

    Add photo comments
    POST