I think my neighbor's cat is going to tear our apartment building apart.
By @gabeyk · Social
A cat started hanging out in our courtyard and at first it was cute. Now people are in a full-blown war over it, and I'm just watching from my window.
The full story
It started about a month ago. A very friendly, fluffy orange cat, who we've collectively decided our building's courtyard is his new spot. At first it was nice. People left out a water bowl. Someone started a group chat just for pictures of him sleeping on the benches. Then it escalated. Someone, I don't know who, bought him a heated bed for the covered patio area. This was apparently the wrong kind of bed. An argument broke out in the group chat about orthopedic support for senior cats (we don't even know if he's senior). Then came the food debate. One person puts out expensive grain-free kibble, and another person replaces it with cheap stuff, claiming the rich food is making him 'too prideful.' They literally have dueling food bowls now. Last week was the breaking point. Someone made a public 'Cheddar Schedule' on a google doc, trying to formalize who gets to pet him and when, to 'ensure everyone gets a turn.' This led to accusations of people 'hogging' the cat and taking petting slots they didn't sign up for. I saw two of my neighbors, who have lived here peacefully for years, having a hushed but very intense argument by the mailboxes over someone allegedly luring Cheddar to their apartment with 'un-sanctioned treats.' It's completely absurd but also I can't look away. I'm just waiting for someone to try and claim him on their taxes.
How people voted
- Valid Take — 28% (31 votes)
- I’m Torn — 37% (40 votes)
- Bad Take — 35% (38 votes)
Readers are split: “I’m Torn” leads with 37% — 109 votes and 5 comments so far.
What people are saying
@claireb — Has anyone checked to see if he's microchipped or belongs to someone?
@tateactually — Soft.
@ren — The 'Cheddar Schedule' sounds like a completely normal and healthy thing for adults to create.
@reesetbh — I'd start leaving out a third, even fancier brand of food just to see what happens.
@ashlol — A cat's place is outside, earning its keep, not being pampered.
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