If you're reading this article, you probably have a cat, and that means you understand that it's a cat's world, we are just living in it. Hopefully *at least* some of these hacks/tips will help make your life a little easier by learning how to successfully navigate their world. 1.

Let's start off with the basics. This super helpful chart will help you get a better understanding of the 'yes' spots and the 'I'll grab your hand and kick it nonstop until you leave me alone' spots. So as you can see here, there are pretty much only three possible spots to pet your cat without risking any injury (those freaking claws are SHARP.

..more on that later).

Obviously, this is going to depend on your kitty and you shouldn't just assume what's safe for most cats will be safe for yours. Always start off gently until you understand their preferences! Head – sure, you can pet there. Back and sides – go for it! Spot at the base of the tail – OMG, yes! Those are some of the best scratches.

It seems like there's a magic button there that raises the kitty's butt when you scratch there. Tail – ehhh, maybe, aka you can try, and they'll definitely let you know if that is acceptable. Legs – nah, don't do that.

Tummy – certain death. Don't you dare go near that spot unless you absolutely know the cat and their petting behaviors. 2.

Now, getting back to those razor sharp nails...

as ~daunting~ as it sounds, you're going to want to trim them. If you don't, those bad boys can leave scars (trust .