The Cagots were separated from their French counterparts in many different ways. It appears that not only were they relegated to the status of peasant, they were divided in other ways. They were put into what the Independent describes as "dismal ghettos," where they were kept apart from the rest of society.

In addition to their homes being separated, they were also separated in the general tasks of everyday life. They were prohibited from practicing certain professions and were relegated to physical labor, such as carpentry and basket weaving. They were even segregated when attempting to practice their faith in churches — having to use their own entrances, fountains, and were given communion at a distance. However, that wasn't even enough, and the French placed even more outlandish and outright bizarre restrictions on an already oppressed people.

The Cagots were forbidden from touching many things, especially things shared in the community, including bridge parapets or baths. They were not allowed to eat alongside non-Cagots, for fear of contamination. They were also prohibited from walking around barefoot, for some reason. This may have led to the rumors that they possessed webbed feet. The symbol of the webbed foot was also used to identify the Cagot people, as they were forced to wear it pinned to their clothing.

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