When people get a dog, they expect it to bark, beg for human food, and require regular walks. Yet, some people are surprised when their cats engage in natural behaviors, like climbing on furniture or scratching at tables. This confusion often arises despite these behaviors being completely normal for felines.
Cat lovers, who adjust their lives to meet the needs of their beloved pets, understand that these behaviors are just part of a cat's nature. After all, cats often spend more time at home than their human companions—shouldn’t the home belong to them too?
If you agree with this perspective, you'll appreciate a recent video response from Dr. Matt McGlasson, a veterinarian from Kentucky and the proud owner of a special needs cat named Rupaul. McGlasson was recently criticized by a viewer who called it “disgusting” that he allows Rupaul on his furniture.
His response, which has since gone viral with over 11.8 million views, humorously defends his choice to treat his cat like royalty. In the video, McGlasson holds Rupaul, who has limited mobility due to her condition, and outlines the many privileges he offers her, including:
- Co-signing a loan for Rupaul
- Letting her do his taxes
- Giving her access to all his online accounts
- Supporting her in a business venture
- Giving her $20,000 for bringing him a dead mouse
- Making Rupaul the beneficiary of his life insurance
And of course, allowing her to lounge on the furniture.
McGlasson sums it up perfectly, saying, “My cat can do whatever she wants. It’s her world. I’m just living in it.”
Fellow cat owners in the comments shared their full support for McGlasson’s view. Some spoke about how they adjust their homes for their cats' comfort, like picking out furniture based on the cat’s preferences. Others emphasized the importance of treating pets with love and respect, acknowledging that pets are family members, not just animals in the house. As one commenter wrote, “When you take an animal into your home, it becomes their home and safe place. Cats like to naturally be elevated. My cats do what they want because they aren’t pets, they’re family.”
The truth is, climbing and exploring are instinctual behaviors for cats, and if their home is meant to be a safe haven, these needs should be considered. However, there are also cat-friendly ways to discourage furniture climbing, like providing plenty of cat trees and scratching posts. Cats generally respond better to positive reinforcement rather than punishment.
As McGlasson, and many other pet owners, can attest, sharing our homes with cats brings fulfillment and connection. And whether it's making small compromises or taking out a large loan, it's all worth it when it comes to our furry companions.