What is "nekohara"? Why are so many people becoming victims, despite its endearing nature?

By any chance, are you troubled by "Nekohara" (cat harassment)?

Interrupting work or study, stalking, or causing mischief—reports of "Nekohara" incidents from cats are endless on social media.

Cat harassment directed at owners can sometimes be annoying, but... they are so cute that you end up forgiving everything. In this article, I’d like to explain what "Nekohara" is all about.

What is Nekohara?

Nekohara is short for "Neko Harassment," which refers to the "harassment" or "annoying behavior" that cats perform toward their owners. Often, it's something you end up forgiving simply because they are so adorable.

Nekohara started gaining attention around the time remote work and online classes became widespread. As owners spent more time at home, the awareness of Nekohara increased rapidly.

There are so many! Common Nekohara behaviors

Specifically, behaviors such as the following count as Nekohara.

Interrupting your work

Getting on your computer, crashing video calls, knocking over documents, or treating the vacuum cleaner like an enemy—anything that interferes with the owner's work, housework, or study.

Demanding affection

Rubbing against you because they want attention or clinging to your feet, forcing the owner to focus entirely on them.

Causing mischief

Intentionally doing things to trouble their owner, like knocking things over or chewing on cords.

Covering you in fur

Rubbing against your clothes or bag just as you are about to head out, leaving you covered in fur.

Being too cute

Being so incredibly cute that you can't help but stop working or studying.

Victims everywhere!? Reports of Nekohara are appearing on social media one after another

On X (formerly Twitter), many laments (or humble brags) from Nekohara victims are being posted.

Something that became a hot topic on "Cat Day," February 22, 2024, was a post by manga artist Yo Uzuki. If the harassment is this cute, it’s definitely welcome!

Could that be Nekohara?
Please feel free to consult us. #CatDay #CatDay pic.twitter.com/X9LYTk1noy

— Yo Uzuki (@yo_yo_yo_u) February 22, 2024

Why do cats engage in Nekohara?

While Nekohara behaviors from cats can be troublesome for owners, they are said to be a form of affection or communication for the cat.

Interrupting work is jealousy

When their beloved owner is on the computer for a long time, some cats feel jealous of the machine. When a cat interrupts your computer work, it’s their way of saying, "Look at me."

Monitoring because they are worried

Some cats get anxious when their owner is focused on something else or doing something unusual. When you realize they are watching you, it’s because they are worried about you.

Wanting attention, play, or to be noticed

Cats view their owners like parents, so they want affection, play time, and attention. Rubbing against you, meowing loudly, or licking your hand are all expressions of their love for you.

Harassment toward cats is a no-no

Nekohara is a small inconvenience in life with a cat, but when you think of it as proof that your cat trusts you and feels affection, you can forgive it all.

In fact, many owners might even want to brag about their Nekohara experiences.

However, cats are naturally creatures who move at their own pace. They are happiest when they can seek affection only when they want it, and play only when they feel like it. Excessive physical contact or over-involvement from the owner can become a cause of stress.

Maybe it's necessary after all? Nekohara countermeasures

"If it's this kind of cute harassment, I welcome it!" many owners might feel this way, but if it goes too far, it can be a problem.

Here are ways to implement "Nekohara countermeasures" without causing your cat stress or burden.

1. Place a box or bed near your workspace

Cats love boxes. Take advantage of this habit by placing a cat-exclusive box or bed near your computer desk, kitchen, or other workspace. If your cat relaxes there, they will be less likely to interfere with your work.

2. Make time to play, even if only for a short while

If your cat is seeking play, create time to play together for even just a few minutes. If they settle down after burning off some energy, you've succeeded.

3. Provide toys that keep them occupied

For playful cats, toys they can play with alone are also effective. For example, educational toys or automatic-moving toys are recommended. Hiding treats around the house for them to find is also a game they can get absorbed in.

Try incorporating toys and activities that stimulate your cat's instincts for exploration and hunting.

Summary

"Nekohara" is short for "Neko Harassment," referring to behaviors where cats do annoying things, but you have no choice but to forgive them because they are so cute.

The way cats try to get their owner’s attention or demand to be engaged has spread as "Nekohara," resonating with many owners.

Nekohara is just one of the ways cats express love and communicate. It is important to understand and accept your cat’s feelings. Enjoy communicating with your cat!