My Mom Has Too Many Cats. How Do I Cope?

Dear Stormy,

I love my mom. I really do. But somewhere along the line, “a couple cats” turned into what I can only describe as a small, emotionally unstable petting zoo.

There are cats on the counters. Cats in the laundry baskets. Cats silently judging me from high shelves like tiny furry gargoyles. I can’t sit down without accidentally upsetting someone with whiskers.

Every conversation somehow comes back to a cat’s digestion, mood, or spiritual journey. I’m starting to feel like the least favorite animal in the house.

How do I cope without sounding mean?

🐾 Dear Outnumbered,

First of all, thank you for your bravery.

As a dog, I believe in loyalty, structure, and occasionally barking at leaves that move suspiciously. Cats, meanwhile, operate like tiny freelance landlords. Different culture entirely.

Now listen carefully: this is no longer your mother’s home. It’s a feline monarchy and she’s merely their spokesperson.

The good news? Your mom probably doesn’t see “too many cats.” She sees comfort, companionship, routine, and about fourteen tiny emotional support roommates.

So don’t go in swinging with:
“Mom, this has gone too far.”

That never ends well. Humans get weirdly defensive when you criticize the creatures currently sleeping on their face at night.

Instead, focus on you. Tell her you miss spending time with her that doesn’t revolve around litter logistics and hairball updates. Make it about connection—not cat inventory.

And honestly? You may need to accept one hard truth:

You are not competing with the cats.
You are competing with the peace the cats bring her.

That’s a tougher battle.

Still… if one more of them makes direct eye contact while knocking a glass off the counter, I support your right to be concerned.

🐾 Pack Tip:
You don’t have to love the cats, you just have to try and survive the regime. We ALL have practice in that lately…