In the Bible, there are the "Ten Commandments of Moses". But have you ever heard of the "Cat Ten Commandments"? More and more people are adopting cats these days, yet not everyone truly knows how to be a responsible, loving cat owner.
The Japanese animal protection group "Japan Animal Lovers Association" has compiled the Cat Ten Commandments, written as if told from a cat's perspective to their human. These commandments convey the ideal relationship between cats and their owners, hoping to inspire current and prospective cat guardians to better understand and care for their feline friends.
- My life will only be about 15 years, though sometimes I may live beyond 20 to become a nine-lived wonder. Even if you leave me for a short while, I will feel upset. Prepare yourself to accept that I will become family.
- I have no intention of understanding what you want from me, so don't expect me to.
- "Worship me" is the most important thing for me.
- You must not scold or confine me for long periods. But I do like small spaces, so prepare some cardboard boxes for me. You may have work, hobbies, and friends, but taking care of me should be your greatest joy.
- Talk to me. I don't care what you say, but I recognize the sound of your voice—especially when you praise me.
- No matter how you treat me, I will not forget it. Any grudge will be returned twice as strong.
- Before you hit me, remember this: my teeth can easily crush the bones in your hand, but I won't bite you without reason.
- Before you scold me for misbehaving, ask yourself: Have you fed me well? Have you disturbed my sunbathing or naps? Maybe you're growing old and weak, but no matter what, refusing to do what I want is the worst thing you can do. Accept your fate.
- Take care of me even when I'm old. You will grow old too, but I remain adorable even in old age.
- When I am about to return to the "Cat Star", stay by my side and see me off. Don't say, "Poor you, I can't just stand by." Keep stroking me and tell me, "You're adorable," "You're wonderful," again and again. Doing so will shorten the time I take to "change clothes" and return to you. ("Changing clothes": It is said that cats shed their fur and are reborn in heaven before returning to their original owner.)
After reading the Cat Ten Commandments, don't you find them both interesting and moving? Hopefully, they help you rediscover the original joy of having a cat and encourage you to treat your feline companions with kindness from their perspective.
