Petting a cat seems like an easy thing to do.
But does the cat like it? Are we petting the right areas?
I am the Cat Butler and Today I am going to show you what is the best way to pet a cat.
Before we even start petting a cat we want to respect your cat’s personal space.
As much as your cat might enjoy cuddles, there are times your cat just wants to be left alone.
This may not be a good time to pet your cat. Cats have different spaces they go to be alone.
So pay attention and learn their favorite spots. For example Teemo and Arya like to be at the top
of the cat tree when they want to be alone. It is their safe zone.
If you are attempting to stroke a new cat, earn their trust first.
Introduce yourself by extending your hand and letting the cat sniff you.
Let the cat take the lead. Cats are wary of strangers
so it may take time to get used to you.
Cat’s communicate to us through their body language.
A common signal that your cat wants affection is if they rub up against your leg
or lean into you when you sit down. This is known as bunting.
Cats have scent glands on their head that excrete pheromones
and when they rub their head against you it is a way for them to mark you with their scent.
They are telling every other cat you are their family.
This not only serves as a sign of trust and inclusion but is a bonding activity.
It is also permission from the cat to pet them. But if your cat catches an
unfamiliar scent on you. They know that you have been cheating on
them with that pretty Siamese cat down the block. Other clear signals include purring and kneading
which is when your cat pushes their paws in and out.
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Even though you may have a general idea of where to pet a cat, it may not come naturally
to some people, especially children. While every cat is different in terms of
their favorite places to be pet, there are a few reliable areas where you can begin.
Generally the best places to pet a cat are where the scent glands are located.
Most cats love to be petted on the back of the head,
behind the ears,
forehead,
under the chin,
and sides of the face. Gently rub along these spots
for a relaxing, enjoyable cuddle with your cat.
You should always pet in the direction of the fur.
You can also gently stroke your cat along the back from head to tail.
A happy cat will soften its body muscles and perhaps even elevate its rear
when you reach the base of its tail.
For most cats the stomach is off limits.
While there are always exceptions, petting a cat’s stomach should be avoided,
especially if it’s a cat you don’t know well. The stomach is a vulnerable spot because it is
where the vital organs are found. When a cat’s stomach is touched,
it may react aggressively by scratching with its claws or biting you.
Teemo and Arya are an exception. They trust me enough and usually
give me permission to massage their belly when they turn on their back.
Arya, how is your belly rub. Arya usually purrrrs like a motorboat.
Other areas cats dislike being touched include the feet and legs, as well as the tail.
Petting isn’t difficult to do, but with a little time
and effort you can learn the preferences of a cat and create a positive experience for them.
Comment down below how does your cat like to be pet?