I don’t have one of those in the house, but friends of mine do though. These cats are arrogant, bratty, not in the least bit subtle and know what they want, and you better not get in their way. Typically, these cats are grown male cats that have not been neutered, though there are plenty of tough ‘bitches’(aka females :P) out there as well. Usually, if there is a bully on the block, they are the culprit, and if there is two of them, then chances are your ‘Boss’ has the war wounds to prove he is tough. While the Diva is the ultimate female, the boss is the ultimate male. Think Sylvester Stallone in Rambo or Rocky.

What are the downsides? Well, since they are the bullying-kind, other pets can suffer from their ‘reign of terror’. Make sure he is not causing them any stress. Also, their constant fights for territory makes going to the vet seem like a weekly event. Also, a Boss will demand what he wants. There is no asking. Food, now! is a great example. Friends of mine have a Boss-cat and if he wants and demands attention and does not get it, he will scratch the couch. The scratching post is standing in front of it, and he will scratch that when not trying to annoy them, but when he wants attention, he will actually go for the couch, because he KNOWS it will get their attention. There is no ignoring a Boss. They also tend to be stoics, so they can be in terrible pain without showing it, since they are too tough for such a thing. Food is not safe, not even the Rottweiler’s food. And if the Rottweiler complains it is very likely he will find his nose clawed up. They also guard their stuff, making it impossible for other pets to get to the bathroom or to the food bowl. Multiple feeding places and litter trays are definitely recommended. As is neutering! Even then he will stay a Boss, but at least it will get rid of some unnecessary testosterone. Take also into account that patience is not his thing, and children should respect him enough to prevent being scratched up.

So why get one? The Boss cat is confident, and knows what it wants. That means that providing what he needs is very easy, since he will make his needs very clear. Also, they are very independent and will mostly spend their time outdoors if they can. And as long as dinner is served on time, he will not bug you. He does not have time to come and whine at your head, he has territory to defend. However, believe it or not, the Boss cat can be incredibly loving towards the people he cares for. He will gladly play a game with them (on his terms though!), and purr for them. He is independent, and will therefore not spend any of his time on your lap, though he will thoroughly mark you by stroking against your legs with his entire body. If you want a cat that can take care of itself and requires a minimal amount of care, the Boss cat is your kitty.

How to recognize one? Look for the bully in the bunch. The bratty one that is clearly going to show you who is boss. The show-off. Other cats will respect him by giving him his space as he walks, and submitting to him if he comes closer. He is confident and has that untamable look about him. This sometimes is even clear in kittens, but most of the time not, since they are so cute and fluffy in the beginning and it is hard to look tough that way ;)