9 Classic ‘Far Side’ Comics About Cats Being the Worst
Gary Larson’s classic comic strip The Far Side has long shown a stark contrast in how it portrays different animals. While cows are consistently depicted as endearing heroes—even when engaged in morally questionable behavior like plotting against farmers—cats receive dramatically different treatment throughout the strip’s history.
In Larson’s comics, cats are relegated to roles as villains, victims, or recipients of comeuppance. They are portrayed as selfish, unruly pets, ruthless predators of dogs and rodents, and generally deserving of misfortune. This consistent negative characterization stands in sharp contrast to the sympathetic, often humorous treatment afforded to bovine characters.
A Polygon article highlights nine comics that exemplify this pattern, demonstrating Larson’s apparent disdain for feline characters compared to his evident affection for cattle. The piece examines how this running gag shaped the tone and humor of The Far Side throughout its publication run, offering insight into Larson’s comedic preferences and the anthropomorphic hierarchy he established within his work.