Whose toes is the cat attacking? and no there are no rules and there is no justice when kids, pets and house maintenance is concerned. It just is

Yes, you are the only one who hears it. Just as you are probably the only one who sees the trash, dirty dishes and laundry.

The cat and the dog rely on you for food and comfort. The other family members are consistent in providing for these needs. I have a cat that waits for me to let it outside because it knows that I will listen for it to ask to come back in. I had a dog for many years that always came to wake me up in the morning. I had to get up very early for work at he time and the dog figured out that I could be counted on to let it out on its run. If I slept in, the dog would lie down or sit on the floor next to my bed until I got up. Pets learn who cares consistently and rely on that person for basic needs. Congratulations, your pets have elected you to be their caregiver!

Your house your rules

Same in my home..the dog could start howling at any time of the night or morning...we take turns to deal with her various issues...it always feels like you're sleepwalking...walking into walls..stepping on Lego..stumbling over a pair of discarded stilettos (not mine)..and calming down a princess dog...pleading..and begging..for a few hours of unbroken sleep!

Actually sounds like your life is not boring at all !!! That's a good thing !!!