Our pets love us unconditionally, but to be fair, they probably have a few complaints.
While they can’t exactly sit us down for a chat, their side-eye, tail flicks, and dramatic sighs say a lot. As much as we adore them, we humans can be a little annoying sometimes, even when we mean well. Whether it’s the confusing games we play, the way we disrupt their perfectly planned naps, or the unnecessary vet trips, our pets definitely have opinions. If they could talk, here are 10 things they’d kindly ask us to stop doing.
1. Dressing them up in ridiculous outfits
Sure, tiny jumpers and Halloween costumes make for adorable photos, but most pets would prefer to skip the fashion show. Cats, in particular, act like clothing is a personal insult, and even some dogs aren’t thrilled about the experience. While it may look cute to us, they often just feel uncomfortable and confused.
Unless it’s freezing outside, and they actually need a coat, it’s best to keep their wardrobe minimal. And if you insist on dressing them up, at least make sure it’s comfy and not restricting their movement. Otherwise, expect some major sulking and a refusal to make eye contact for hours.
2. Ignoring their very obvious dinner time reminders
Your pet is convinced you have one job: feed them on time. The subtle hints like meowing in your face, knocking things off tables, or staring at you intensely shouldn’t be ignored. They know their schedule, and any delay is unacceptable in their eyes.
They don’t care that you’re busy or that they ate two hours ago. They want their food, and they want it now. A regular feeding schedule keeps them happy and prevents the guilt trip that follows if you forget. Because let’s be real, the look of betrayal they give when you’re late is soul-crushing.
3. Fake throwing the ball
Your dog trusted you. They saw the ball leave your hand, except it didn’t. And now, they’re looking at you with pure betrayal in their eyes. Why do humans do this? They’re ready to run, their excitement levels are at their peak, and then… nothing. The trickery is unforgivable.
Sure, it’s funny for you, but to them, it’s just cruel deception. Throw the ball like a decent person and let them have their fun. Trust is hard to rebuild, and they may take a little longer to believe you next time. No one likes being made a fool of, especially not your dog.
4. Waking them up for no reason
There they were, peacefully dreaming about chasing squirrels or lounging in a sunbeam, when suddenly, disturbance. Just because they look cute while sleeping doesn’t mean they appreciate being poked, pet, or picked up mid-dream. Those mid-nap belly rubs? Not worth the risk.
Would you want to be woken up just because someone thought you looked adorable? Exactly. Let them snooze in peace. The dramatic sigh and repositioning they do afterward? That’s pure disappointment in human form.
5. Not giving them enough belly rubs (but knowing when to stop)
When a pet rolls over and offers their belly, it’s either an invitation for tummy rubs or an elaborate trap. Dogs usually love it. Cats? You have about three seconds before they change their mind and unleash the claws. It’s a high-stakes game.
It’s a delicate balance, and getting it wrong can cost you a scratch or a hurt ego. Respect the unspoken rules of belly rubs, and you’ll keep the peace. Read the signs, watch the tail flicks, and know when to retreat.
6. Making weird noises just to see their reaction
You know the ones—strange whistles, bizarre voices, or that sudden “pspsps” noise humans make at cats. Sure, it’s entertaining to see their confused head tilts, but at some point, they’re just over it. The first time? Amusing. The tenth time? Annoying.
They’re trying to live their lives, and you’re out here making dolphin sounds to see if they’ll react. They will remember this when you need their affection later. And they may just ignore you for payback.
7. Giving them baths when they definitely don’t need one
Dogs tolerate it. Cats act like it’s a personal attack. Either way, most pets would prefer to stay dry, thank you very much. Unless they’ve rolled in something horrendous, they probably don’t need a full-on bath.
A little brushing, some pet wipes, and the occasional paw rinse? Fine. But full immersion in water? That’s betrayal on another level. And if they bolt under the couch afterward and refuse to speak to you, just know—you brought it on yourself.
8. Bringing them to the vet (even though it’s for their own good)
They don’t know it’s necessary; they just know that every time you grab the carrier or leash in that way, it leads to poking, prodding, and scary smells. No amount of soothing voices or treats can convince them otherwise.
No matter how much you reassure them, they’re convinced you’ve betrayed them. The good news? They’ll probably forgive you the moment you give them a treat afterward. But that car ride? The deep sighs and frantic pacing say it all.
9. Taking up too much space on the bed or couch
Pets have a very specific definition of “sharing,” and it usually means they get 80% of the space while you squeeze into whatever corner remains. They don’t care that you bought the couch or pay rent; it belongs to them now.
If you dare to stretch out or move them, expect a dramatic sigh, a dirty look, or a full-on protest. It’s their bed—you just happen to sleep in it, too. And if you shift too much? They’ll either get up in a huff or make themselves even heavier just to prove a point.
10. Leaving them alone for way too long
Whether you’re out for work or just taking too long to come back from the shops, your pet is convinced you’ve abandoned them forever. The disappointment is real, and they have no idea if you’ll ever return. Even if you’re only gone for an hour, it feels like a lifetime.
Sure, they’ll act indifferent when you return (especially if they’re a cat), but deep down, they missed you. And they’ll make sure you know it, either by ignoring you completely or sticking to you like glue for the rest of the day. Either way, you’re getting payback.
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