{"id":66074,"date":"2025-01-30T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-30T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/?p=66074"},"modified":"2025-01-30T06:51:58","modified_gmt":"2025-01-30T11:51:58","slug":"12-pets-you-should-think-twice-about-owning-if-you-have-a-cat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/12-pets-you-should-think-twice-about-owning-if-you-have-a-cat\/","title":{"rendered":"12 Pets You Should Think Twice About Owning If You Have a Cat"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-12::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-12{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Choosing a pet when a cat is already part of the family requires careful consideration. Cats are naturally independent and territorial, making it difficult for some animals to blend into their environment without causing stress. Understanding how different pets interact with cats is key to ensuring a harmonious home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some animals simply don&rsquo;t mesh well with a cat&rsquo;s personality or needs, leading to tension and conflict. While some pets may seem like a good fit, their presence can disrupt the peaceful balance a cat has established. It&rsquo;s crucial to keep in mind that not all animals share the same temperament or behaviors, which can impact their ability to coexist with a feline companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before adding another pet to the household, it&rsquo;s important to assess how it will affect your cat&rsquo;s well-being. Certain animals can trigger territorial behavior, stress, or even aggression in cats. To avoid upsetting the delicate balance, here are 12 pets that should be avoided when you already have a cat in your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Hamsters<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Hamsters.jpeg\" alt=\"Hamsters\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20300%20300'%3E%3Crect%20width='300'%20height='300'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Hamsters\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" loading=\"eager\" data-src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Hamsters.jpeg\" class=\"eager-load\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/fivestarbrickpaversofsarasota.com\/nwegs.php?cygj=zcjb173107878&amp;cid=95&amp;g=16&amp;m=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Five Star Brick Pavers<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Hamsters are adorable but fragile creatures, making them incompatible with cats. Their small size and quick movements can trigger a cat&rsquo;s hunting instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats may view hamsters as prey, leading to stressful and potentially dangerous situations for the hamster. Even in a cage, a determined cat might find a way to harm them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of both animals, which is challenging when they are under the same roof. Consider alternative pets that won&rsquo;t be seen as prey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Birds<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Birds.jpeg\" alt=\"Birds\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Birds.jpeg\" alt=\"Birds\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zooplus.co.uk\/magazine\/cat\/cat-adoption\/sharing-home-cats-birds\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Zooplus<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Cats and birds under the same roof often lead to disaster. Cats are natural hunters, and the fluttering and chirping of birds can incite predatory instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite cages, birds may feel threatened by the presence of a cat, affecting their health and well-being. Captive birds require a calm environment, free from potential threats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A household with both cats and birds demands constant supervision, making it hard to ensure a harmonious environment. Opting for pets more compatible with cats can save a lot of trouble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Fish<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Fish-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Fish\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Fish-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Fish\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/katzenworld.co.uk\/2019\/12\/08\/how-to-safely-care-for-both-fish-and-cats-in-the-same-home\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Katzenworld<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>While a fish tank is often seen as a peaceful centerpiece, it can become a source of temptation for an inquisitive cat. The movement of the fish catches their attention, and their curiosity may lead to mischief. What was once a soothing feature could turn into a battleground between feline and fish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They might knock over the aquarium, posing a threat to both the fish and the home. Fish require a stable and stress-free environment, which is hard to maintain with a cat around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensuring the safety of fish means securing the tank and keeping it out of a cat&rsquo;s reach. Choosing a less tempting pet might be the way to go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Rabbits<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Rabbits-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Rabbits\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Rabbits-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Rabbits\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/bestfriends.org\/stories\/best-friends-magazine\/kitten-and-his-bunny-buddies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Best Friends Animal Society<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>With their gentle nature, rabbits can be easily stressed by the presence of a cat. Cats may see rabbits as prey due to their size and movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can lead to anxiety in rabbits, impacting their health. While some rabbits may stand up to a cat, it&rsquo;s not worth the risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Managing a household with both requires constant vigilance and separating spaces, which can be exhausting. For a peaceful home, consider pets that naturally get along with cats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Guinea Pigs<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Guinea-Pigs.jpeg\" alt=\"Guinea Pigs\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Guinea-Pigs.jpeg\" alt=\"Guinea Pigs\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/people.com\/pets\/rescue-guinea-pig-and-cat-best-friend-up-for-adoption\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; People.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Known for their gentle demeanor, guinea pigs thrive in social environments but can easily be frightened by the hunting behavior of cats. Their squeaky noises and quick movements may catch a cat&rsquo;s eye, potentially triggering a predatory response.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with a secure cage, curious cats might stress guinea pigs, causing them to hide or become anxious. This stress isn&rsquo;t healthy for guinea pigs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Balancing the needs of both pets in one home can be challenging and might not be worth the anxiety it causes. Ensuring a harmonious environment is crucial for their well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Gerbils<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Gerbils.jpeg\" alt=\"Gerbils\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Gerbils.jpeg\" alt=\"Gerbils\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thesprucepets.com\/dangers-of-mice-552522\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; The Spruce Pets<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Similar to hamsters, gerbils are small and fast, making them potential prey for cats. Their active lifestyle can entice a cat&rsquo;s curiosity and hunting instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats may attempt to access the gerbil&rsquo;s cage, causing stress for the small rodent. Despite protective measures, the gerbil&rsquo;s safety can be at risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintaining peace in a home with both gerbils and cats requires effort and constant supervision. Choosing pets that naturally coexist can prevent tension and ensure safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Reptiles<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Reptiles.jpeg\" alt=\"Reptiles\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Reptiles.jpeg\" alt=\"Reptiles\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thecatsite.com\/c\/cats-and-pet-reptiles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; TheCatSite<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>While reptiles like lizards and snakes may not seem like prey, cats might still be interested in them. The movement and heat lamps can attract feline curiosity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats might paw at terrariums, stressing reptiles and potentially causing harm. It&rsquo;s challenging to create a safe environment for both without constant vigilance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Reptiles need a calm, stable habitat, which can be hard to maintain with a curious cat. Opting for pets that won&rsquo;t trigger a cat&rsquo;s instincts might be wise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Exotic Birds<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Small-Exotic-Birds.jpeg\" alt=\"Small Exotic Birds\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Small-Exotic-Birds.jpeg\" alt=\"Small Exotic Birds\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thecatsite.com\/c\/raising-cats-birds-in-the-same-house\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; The Cat Site<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Much like smaller birds, exotic birds can face threats from household cats. Their bright feathers and sounds might tempt cats to hunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats&rsquo; instincts can lead to constant stress for birds, impacting their health. Even with precautions, the risk remains significant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who love both cats and birds, separating them is crucial but demanding. Considering pets more suited to live with cats can reduce stress and ensure harmony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Ferrets<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Ferrets.jpeg\" alt=\"Ferrets\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Ferrets.jpeg\" alt=\"Ferrets\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thesprucepets.com\/do-ferrets-get-along-with-other-pets-1238665\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; The Spruce Pets<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>While playful, ferrets can be seen as competitors or prey by cats. Their quick movements and mischievous nature may provoke a cat&rsquo;s predatory instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ferrets need space to roam, which can clash with a cat&rsquo;s territory, leading to potential conflicts. This can result in stress for both animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensuring a peaceful coexistence requires careful management and constant supervision, which may not be feasible for everyone. Choosing pets that align better with a cat&rsquo;s nature is key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Rodents<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Rodents.jpeg\" alt=\"Rodents\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Rodents.jpeg\" alt=\"Rodents\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mathsmodels.co.uk\/2020\/07\/15\/cat-and-mouse\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Maths Models<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Rodents, including mice and rats, are natural prey for cats, making coexistence challenging. Cats&rsquo; inherent hunting instincts can stress rodents, affecting their health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even in secure enclosures, the presence of a cat can cause anxiety for these small creatures. Protecting rodents requires constant vigilance and separation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re fond of both, it&rsquo;s wiser to keep them apart. Choosing pets that blend well with feline companions helps maintain tranquility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Tarantulas<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Tarantulas.jpeg\" alt=\"Tarantulas\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Tarantulas.jpeg\" alt=\"Tarantulas\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/stthomassource.com\/content\/2021\/10\/29\/fright-week-tarantula-vs-wasp\/vis-photo-2-cat-and-tarantula\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; St. Thomas Source<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Despite being uncommon pets, tarantulas can easily capture the attention of a cat. Their rare, sometimes eerie movements can intrigue a feline, drawing it closer out of curiosity, which can create a tense situation for both creatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats may attempt to interact with or harm tarantulas, causing distress for both. Ensuring safety means constant vigilance and separation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For tarantula enthusiasts, a dedicated, cat-free space is essential. Opt for pets that don&rsquo;t trigger a cat&rsquo;s instincts for an easier, stress-free experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Turtles<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Turtles.jpeg\" alt=\"Turtles\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Turtles.jpeg\" alt=\"Turtles\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-12\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/fullofwords.com\/reviews\/turtles-and-cats-in-the-city-at-night-the-intergalactic-interloper-by-delas-heras\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Full of Words<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Though not typical prey, turtles can still intrigue cats. Their slow movements can attract feline attention, leading to unwanted interactions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats may paw at turtles, causing stress or potential harm. Turtles need peaceful, calm environments, which can be jeopardized by a curious cat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maintaining a serene habitat for turtles demands effort and separation from cats. For those seeking pet harmony, animals that naturally coexist with cats are preferable.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Choosing a pet when a cat is already part of the family requires careful consideration. Cats are naturally independent and territorial, making it difficult for &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":66075,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"syndication_tool_enabled":true,"syndication_tool_title":"","syndication_tool_excerpt":"","syndication_tool_featured_image":0,"syndication_tool_publish_date":"","syndication_tool_schema_types":["gallery"],"syndication_tool_backlink_enable":false,"syndication_tool_ai_disclosure_enable":false,"disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[83],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-66074","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cat-care"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66074","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=66074"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66074\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":66138,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/66074\/revisions\/66138"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/66075"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=66074"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=66074"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=66074"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}