Your coddled cat might actually be a bundle of nerves, and it’s all because you could be blind to his true identity.

Take a minute to look at the world through feline eyes. You’re a solitary soul, forced to share space with predators like primates and dogs — maybe even other cats. You have no say in your choice of food or drink, and even your bathroom habits are restricted. Chances are, if you want to climb or scratch, that could be off limits too.

To create a cat-comfy home, make sure each cat has his own space, food and water, toys and clean litter box. Encourage natural behaviors like scratching, climbing and hunting. Above all, give your cat choices instead of focusing on limits and forcing change.

Your cat has nine lives; help him live each one to the fullest.