Cats are known for their enigmatic nature, independence, and occasional flair for the dramatic. However, there’s always a reason why your cat runs off and hides under the bed, or why your new scented candle became their arch-enemy. Over at mybestie.gr, we understand that not only is it important to know what your kitty loves, but also what they despise. There are plenty of things that don’t harm humans at all but might bother cats immensely, just because cats perceive the world around them in a different way.

But what are these things that cats really hate? Here are ten of them that your fluffy buddy would surely get rid of… if they could!

1. Strong smells

While a house filled with sweet smelling fragrances may be a joy to our senses, there's a chance that your cat won't like it. The feline sense of smell is highly developed and strong smells can be unpleasant. This includes air fresheners, strongly scented cleaning products, perfumes and strongly scented litter. According to recommendations on feline health, olfactory stressors should be reduced in a cat's environment as much as possible.

Sometimes, less is indeed more.

2. A Dirty litter box

As strange as it may sound, this can be a cause of many problems as well. While cats can be very particular about their toilet area, an unsuitable litter box can be a problem in many cases. However, if your cat suddenly begins to urinate or defecate anywhere else except for the litter box, it doesn't necessarily mean that he or she wants to protest.

3. Forced Cuddles

You love your cat. Your cat may love you passionately. This does not mean it is up for cuddles at all times, just because you feel like it. Interactions that are positive and consistent with a cat's preferences are healthy. Allowing your cat to make its own decision about coming closer or going away or just sitting next to you will go a long way. Consent is key in feline communications.

4. Unexpected sounds

Vacuum cleaners. Hairdryers. Slamming doors. Loud music. And the mystery sound made by the pan you dropped in the kitchen. Unexpected loud sounds can scare or distress your cat. A calm environment and a place to escape to can help them cope with noisy situations.

5. Changing things

You moved the sofa. Your cat will want to know who gave you the right to do that. Cats feel safe in predictable surroundings and routines. New furniture, guests, other pets or sudden changes in the mealtime schedule can take some getting used to. It does not mean that there will never be any change around you — it’s enough if you give your cat time to get used to it.

6. Nowhere to hide from

Sometimes a cat just needs to go hide. Finding hiding spots is one of the most common coping mechanisms; hence, boxes, covered beds, quiet corners, etc. could be helpful to them. According to environmental recommendations, cats should have the ability to hide and feel secure somewhere. Yes, some times the €2 box would beat the €80 designer bed for cats.

7. Being stared at or approached

Humans usually show their feelings by approaching, touching, and staring into another person's eyes. But it's not how cats perceive it always. For example, an unknown or frightened cat might feel more relaxed if he could approach the human and start interaction on his own. Cat friendly handling recommendation suggests taking into account the emotional state of an animal and leaving him with a feeling of choice.

8. Having their sensitive spots touched

Every cat has its own sensitivities. It might tolerate being scratched on its cheeks for thirty minutes without problems but will be very different about being touched on its belly, paws or tail. Notice how your cat behaves – if its tail is twitching, its ears are flattened and it has a tense body or the skin ripples or suddenly turns towards your hand, take the hint. Listening to that hint can save the cuddle session turning into a meeting of claws.

9. Boredom

Although cats spend lots of time sleeping, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they need nothing else. Indoor cats require chances to play, explore, scratch, climb, hide and hunt. According to guidelines for veterinarians treating felines, these are considered important parts of their environment and can cause stress and behavior issues if not provided. Sometimes a box, a puzzle feeder or just a ten minute play session is more fun than an expensive new toy.

10. Loss of Control over their surroundings

There is one thought that brings most of the things that cats hate together: lack of control. Sudden seizing, cornering, exposing to new odors and not allowing cats to retreat makes them insecure. Giving cats the choice when to interact, sleep and walk away will make the environment comfortable for them.

Cats are not troublesome. They have only their own way to experience the world.

Understanding what your cat hates does not mean planning everything around them; nevertheless, your cat will definitely be very supportive in this case. You need to listen to their signals, accept their boundaries and build an environment where they can feel secure. Once you understand the signals, you may find out that Your cat has been trying to communicate with you all the time.

You just did not speak the language of cats yet!