While this may seem impossible, most pet owners don’t know how to pet a cat. Many are surprised to discover that their feline reacts “unexpectedly,” with a bite or scratch in the middle of a relaxing session. However, many have been inadvertently warned.
In this peritoAnimal article we will explain how to caress the cat properly, positively and safely. We will talk about the preferred areas of the feline body, the body language of cats and how to do a session correctly, always with special attention to the welfare of the animal. Read!
- The domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) is.
- Like other feral cats.
- A solitary animal.
- However.
- Domestication has significantly promoted the social behavior of this species.
- This means that a cat can be more or less tolerant.
- Depending on its genetics.
- Socialization and experiences.
It is also important to know that cats do not like overhanding. Therefore, learning to interpret the feline language is essential if you want to know your cat better, identify its tolerance limit and have adequate expectations in relation to it.
Some signs that a cat is happy are
By identifying these body postures, you will know that your cat is relaxed, receptive and ready to be caressed. However, you should also show confidence by providing a relaxed environment, using a soft, sharp voice or adopting slow and progressive approaches.
Similarly, it will be essential to let the cat take the initiative to start a caressing session. Pay attention to your body language to notice any signs of disgust and let the cat leave whenever you want, meaning he will decide when to end the caressing session. Never exaggerate and always respect your limits.
Now that you know some basic premises, we’ll explain how to properly caress a cat, showing which areas are the feline’s body favorites. Still, you must reserve time each day to get to know your cat better, because everyone has their own preferences.
Start by offering long, soft, hair-like features, never against them. Ideally, always follow the same direction and avoid hitting, hitting or squeezing, even if the intention is good. During these first sessions, you should be as careful and affectionate as possible.
It should start with the head, “paint” the top of the head and the back of the neck with the fingers. You can also massage the upper and middle back, starting with the shoulder blades and ending near the chest vertebrae. Similarly, you can gently scratch your cheeks and bottom of your chin, although these areas can only be reserved for people closest to the cat.
Avoid caressing the belly, tail, legs or pads. They usually don’t like these areas and are most likely to notice signs of disgust when you touch them. If you ignore these signs, the cat may begin to increase the intensity of warnings, either by scratching or biting.
Signs of an angry cat include
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, stop immediately. However, it is important to note that the cat is never advised to go so far as to show these signs. Therefore, it is ideal to gradually identify the tolerance limit of the cat and never try to exceed it.
During your pet sessions, always try to provide a positive experience, paying special attention to the welfare and body language of the cat.
Many people wonder how to caress a kitten so that it relaxes and falls asleep peacefully. It is important to remember that sleep is one of the most important habits for felines, especially in the early stages of life, as it depends on good learning and well-being.
To relax a cat and put it to sleep, it is ideal to give it long and soft caresses. In addition, it is necessary to take breaks so that the body no longer stimulates and can begin to rest, until it finally stops. Heat, silence or soft music are also essential for the feline to fall asleep.
Many people wonder how to make a cat pet. However, as mentioned above, one of the secrets to making this routine positive and respectful is to allow the cat itself to initiate it and finish it.
You should never punish or scold a cat that doesn’t want to be petted. If you notice that your cat is less caressed, aggressive, frightened or refuses to be tampered with, you may suspect that there is a stress-related problem.
Nor should you touch the cat when it is relaxed, asleep or distracted, because when the cat does not want to be caressed and forced, we create a situation of unnecessary stress. Also, do not make sudden movements or remove your hand abruptly.
In shy, nervous or aggressive cats, management should always be smooth, positive and progressive. Avoid “no-go zones” and use positive reinforcement to make the situation positive. To do this, you can strengthen with your voice, through a “very good” or offer cat treats.
In the most severe cases, it may be necessary to consult the veterinarian with management guidelines and the option to use tranquilizer pheromones to improve the well-being of the feline at home. It’s important to note that stress, especially when it comes to chronic stress, can even affect a person’s health.
To begin with, we must distinguish between the two types of “wandering cats” that exist: wild cats (who have never socialized with humans) and abandoned cats (which once belonged to a family). The former will never accept coexistence and contact with people, while the latter can have positive relationships.
Start by letting the cat feel your hand to identify you to feel more comfortable in your presence. If you don’t show interest, don’t force the situation and find a more conducive time to connect with it. Again, pay attention to your body language.
If you see positive signs, for example, that the cat is rubbing against you or claims your attention, you can try to caress it with caution, kindness and slow movements. Similarly, be careful if you identify a slight purr, because while it is usually a sign of well-being and pleasure, it can also mean that the cat does not feel completely comfortable.
To conclude this article on how to caress a cat, it is worth mentioning the different benefits of the relationship with a cat and caressing it. According to several studies [1] [2] [3], petting a cat positively affects our health, reducing the risk of heart attack by 30%.
Similarly, the impact on our bodies is amazing. People who caress cats regularly report that they have better communication, increased attention span, and are more engaged. They also claim that it affects mood and decreases anxiety.
Therefore, there are many reasons why we must caress our cats, both for our well-being and for theirs. You do that too? Share your experience with us.
If you would like to read articles similar to How to Care a Cat, we recommend that you visit our Basic Care section.