Chapter 1: The Spoiled Feline Duo

Cats have a way of doing whatever they please, and there's little that can be done to change that. As Frank Perkins wisely noted, they operate on their own terms. We are the proud owners of two pampered cats who enjoy a constant supply of wet food and water. In addition to the water available in the kitchen, we’ve even placed extra water in the bathroom for their convenience. Our routine includes giving them treats at 2 PM and a half can of wet food at 6 PM. One of our cats, Dark, a Sable Ragdoll, requires daily medication. Each evening when he receives his dose, both cats are rewarded with additional treats. We keep their litter boxes clean by ensuring they are tidied up whenever someone uses the restroom—a simple method that keeps things fresh.

Unexpectedly, we had to leave town, and a college student from our neighborhood agreed to look after our furry companions. She visited twice a day—once in the afternoon and again in the evening—to feed the cats and administer Dark's medication. She also cleaned the litter box and provided some much-needed companionship. Although she loved cats, she was new to cat sitting.

With the help of a living room camera, I could monitor how things were going. To my surprise, I noticed that the cats were receiving far more treats than usual. It was a veritable feast for them, reminiscent of money raining down at a strip club. Their cleverness was evident as they managed to charm the cat sitter into giving them extra goodies.

While she was seated at the counter, one of our cats leapt onto the kitchen island—a no-no in our house. This cat began swiping at her papers, while the other casually lounged next to her book bag, almost threateningly. The cat near the bag stretched out and flexed his claws as if to say, “Nice bag you have there; it would be a shame if something happened to it.” In response, the sitter quickly grabbed some treats to distract them, and both cats eagerly followed her for a taste of more delicious food.

The following day, I watched as my cats meowed and rubbed against her legs while she attempted to serve them their wet food. Ignoring their meal, they continued to meow pitifully, their eyes wide with anticipation. It was as if they were ready to sing a rendition of "It’s a Hard Knock Life" from Annie.

To appease them, she scattered treats around, which they devoured before finally turning to their wet food. The sitter was left in awe at their antics.

Our return was scheduled for the afternoon the next day. As I observed the sitter’s final visit, she simply gave the cats treats while they trailed behind her toward the kitchen. I wondered how many times during her visits they had pulled similar stunts. After two days of interaction, it was evident that our cats had been quite the handful.

Upon our arrival, the sitter declined to come inside for payment, choosing instead to stand on the porch and inform me that she would not be cat-sitting for us again. I didn’t need to ask why; it was clear. Who would want to deal with such little tyrants?

I tipped her well and assured her that I understood her decision. Since we’ve been back, our cats have not displayed any of their previous manipulative behavior. It seems they know just how to work their charm. My two boys are determined to enjoy life to the fullest—what little rascals they are!

Chapter 2: The Unwritten Rules of Cat Manipulation

More from Toni Crowe

The Little Cat Hated Me Until He Groomed My Hair into A Cat Spit Helmet Dogs have owners. Cats have staff. I hadn’t made the cut.

Sometimes Leadership Sucks If I did not stop their affair, I would pay the price.

That Time My Mom Accused the Carpet Cleaning Guy of Taking Her Gun It made her kids laugh, but the carpet guy was terrified.

My Husband’s Cat Slowly Strolled Over to My Cat and Whacked Him Upside the Head And thus began The Great Treat War of 2021.

Toni Crowe retired as the Vice President of Operations to pursue her dream of being a writer. She has authored six books, two of which won the 2019 Reader’s Choice Gold