How to pet the cat

Author: Peter Berry
Date Of Creation: 16 February 2021
Update Date: 3 November 2024
Anonim
Cat Petting 101
Video: Cat Petting 101

Content

While this may seem impossible, most pet owners don't know how to pet a cat. Many are surprised to find that their feline reacts "unexpectedly", with a bite or scratch right in the middle of a relaxing session. However, many were warned without realizing it.

In this article by PeritoAnimal, we will explain to you how to pet the cat appropriately, positively and securely. We'll talk about the cats' favorite body areas, cats' body language and how to do a session correctly, always paying attention to the animal's well-being. Keep reading!

How to pet the cat

The domestic cat (Felis sylvestris catus) is, like other wild cats, a solitary animal. However, domestication remarkably promoted the social behavior of this species. This means that a cat can be more or less tolerant, depending on their genetics, socialization and lived experiences.


It is also important to know that cats do not like excessive manipulation. Therefore, learning to interpret feline language is essential if you want to get to know your cat better, identify its tolerance threshold and have adequate expectations when relating to it.

Some signs that a cat is happy are:

  • relaxed body posture
  • raised ears
  • Tail and head up
  • walk safe
  • Tail "vibrating"

By identifying these body postures, you will know that your cat is relaxed, receptive and ready to be petted. However, you must also provide confidence by offering him a relaxed environment by using a high and soft tone of voice or taking slow, progressive approaches.

Likewise, it will be essential let the cat take the initiative starting a cuddling session. Pay attention to your body language for possible signs of displeasure, and let the cat go whenever it wants, meaning it will decide when to end the petting session. never overdo it, and always respect your limits.


where to pet the cat

Now that you know some basic assumptions, we'll explain you how to pet a cat correctly, showing you what the feline's favorite body areas are. Even so, you should set aside time every day to get to know your cat better, as everyone has their own preferences.

start offering long, soft caresses and in the direction of the fur, never against them. The ideal is to always go in the same direction and avoid patting, hitting or squeezing, even if the intention is good. In these first few sessions, you should be as caring and affectionate as possible.

you must start by the head, "combing" the top of the head and the back of the neck with the fingertips. You can also massage the upper and middle region of the back, starting with the scapulae and ending near the thoracic vertebrae. Likewise, you can gently scratch your cheeks and the underside of your chin, although these areas may only be reserved for those closest to the cat.


Avoid stroking the belly, tail, legs or paw pads. They usually don't like these areas, and you're likely to notice signs of dislike when you touch them. If you ignore these signs, your cat may begin to increase the intensity of the warnings through a scratch or bite.

Some signs of an angry cat are:

  • tense body posture
  • drooping ears back
  • raised tail
  • Tail hitting
  • tail moving too fast
  • fast movements
  • bristly coat
  • arched body
  • bristly tail
  • Open mouth
  • snorts
  • growls

If you see any of the signs mentioned above, stop immediately. However, it is important to keep in mind that it is never advisable for the cat to get to the point of showing these signs. Therefore, the ideal is that you gradually identify what is the tolerance limit of the cat and never try to overtake it.

In your cuddling sessions, always try to provide a positive experience, paying close attention to the cat's well-being and body language.

How to pet the cat so that it sleeps

Many people wonder how to pet a kitten for him to relax and fall asleep peacefully. It is important to remember that sleeping is one of the most important habits for felines, especially in the early stages of life, as proper learning and well-being depend on this.

To relax a cat and put it to sleep, the ideal is to do it on it. long and soft caresses. In addition, you should take breaks so that the body is no longer stimulated and can start to rest, until finally stop. Warmth, silence or soft music are also fundamental for the cat to fall asleep.

How to pet a skittish cat

Many people wonder how to make a cat allow itself to be petted. However, as mentioned above, one of the keys to making this routine positive and respectful is to allow the feline itself to start and finish it.

You should never punish or scold a cat that doesn't want to be petted. In fact, if you notice that your cat is less petted, aggressive, scared, or refuses to be handled, you may suspect that there is a stress related problem.

You also shouldn't touch the cat when it's relaxed, asleep or distracted, because when the cat doesn't want to be petted and we force it, we're creating an unnecessary stressful situation. Also, do not make sudden movements or withdraw your hand suddenly.

In shy, skittish or aggressive cats, handling should always be gentle, positive and gradual. Avoid "no-go areas" and use positive reinforcement to make the situation positive. For this, you can reinforce it with your voice, through a "very good" or offer treats for cats.

In more serious cases, it may be necessary to consult with the veterinarian about the management guidelines and the option of using tranquilizing pheromones to improve the feline's well-being at home. It is important to emphasize that stress, especially when we talk about chronic stress, can even affect the individual's health.

How to pet a stray cat

To begin with, we must differentiate between the two types of "stray cats" that exist: the wild cats (who have never socialized with humans) and the abandoned cats (which once belonged to a family). The former will never accept the coexistence and contact with people, while the latter may come to relate in a positive way.

start leaving the cat smell your hand to identify you and thus feel more comfortable in your presence. If he doesn't show interest, don't force the situation and look for a more favorable time to bond with him. Again, pay attention to your body language.

If you see positive signs, for example, that the cat rubs against you or demands your attention, you can try petting it with caution, gentleness and slow movements. Likewise, be careful if you spot a light purr, as while it's usually a sign of well-being and pleasure, it can also mean that the cat isn't entirely comfortable.

Benefits of Petting Cats

To finish this article on petting a cat, we should mention the many benefits of bonding with and petting a feline. According to several studies[1][2][3], petting a cat positively affects our health status, reducing the risk of heart attack by 30%.

Likewise, the impact on our bodies is amazing. People who regularly pet cats report that they communicate better, are more attentive, and are more engaged. They also claim that it affects mood and reduces anxiety.

So there are many reasons why we should pet our cats, for both our well-being and his. Do you do that too? Share your experience with us.

If you want to read more articles similar to How to pet the cat, we recommend that you enter our Basic Care section.