"I Will Feed The Cat, But Refuse To Play With It" - AITA For Not Loving Our Family Cat

A sibling conflict over caring for the family cat sparks a debate on responsibility and affection.

Davy

• Published in Interesting
• June 16, 2024

Pet ownership in a family can sometimes create unexpected conflicts, particularly when not all members share the same level of affection for the animal. This is the situation for a 25-year-old man who lives with his parents and four younger siblings.

Despite his deep love for his family, he harbors a strong dislike for their cat, which they have had for three years. From the beginning, he made it clear that he would not take on any responsibility for the cat’s care.

However, with his family planning a trip to Spain, he finds himself in a difficult position. Since he has to stay home due to work commitments, his family expects him to look after the cat.

Reluctantly, he really agrees to feed, water, and clean the cat's litter box, but he draws the line at playing with it. This decision has not gone over well with his 17-year-old sister, who insists that he should show the cat the same love and attention that the rest of the family does.

This disagreement highlights the complexities of familial obligations and personal boundaries when it comes to caring for a pet that one does not particularly like. So, let's dive into the story:

The Story

For some reason, it would scratch up my legs.

After that, there were some minor scratches, but nothing serious.

I was staying home, and they wanted me to also watch the cat.

Here is where I might have been the AH.

So I just laughed when she said that.

Asked if I cared about him,

I’ll take care of him but it sure as hell won’t be out of love or care,

AITA?

A 25-year-old man reluctantly agrees to care for his family's cat while they are on vacation in Spain. Despite his initial reluctance, he consents to feed, water, and clean up after the cat, but refuses to play with it.

This decision has angered his 17-year-old sister, who believes that as part of the family, he should show love and affection to the cat just like everyone else. Their disagreement raises questions about personal boundaries and familial responsibilities.

Now, let’s see what others have to say about this situation.

You put a toy between yourself and cat.

Get over yourself or move out,

Trust, you’re not an AH for not hating the cat. You won’t ever be.

Keep doing you!

Actually, I feel you're a good person for still being ready to take care of him regardless,

YTA,

“He’s just a little cat, he’s part of the family, you have to love him.”

This story brings up important discussions about family responsibilities and the expectations placed on each member when it comes to pet care. Is it fair to expect someone to show affection to a pet they dislike, or is it enough that they meet the basic care requirements?

Should personal boundaries be respected, or should familial obligations take precedence? These are not easy questions to answer, and each family might have a different perspective.

We’d love to hear your thoughts. How would you handle a situation where you are expected to care for a pet you don't like? Do you think the man is right to set boundaries, or should he try to show more affection for the sake of family harmony?

Davy