How to Pet a Cat
Most cat parents (or cat-petters) have had this experience: your kitty is rubbing against your legs and meowing. She clearly wants to be petted. You start stroking her, and POW, she takes a swipe or nip at you! Is she just grouchy, or could you be petting her the wrong way? Wait... is there a wrong way to pet a cat?
The answer to this question is that it depends on the cat. But if your cat occasionally swipes at you or you're petting a cat that is new to you, learning the right way to pet a cat will help you make a best buddy.
Feline domestication has been more recent than that of our canine friends. A modern house cat's DNA is only slightly different from its wild ancestors. This means that our house cat, in many ways, still thinks like their wild ancestors, who are more solitary, and because of this, they have different social skills than canines. They are social and affectionate, just in a different way than a dog.
Both dogs and cats love to be petted. It makes them feel loved, relaxed, and safe. Here are some basic tips on cat petting.
Space - An important step is to allow the cat to have as much choice and control as possible. Some cats need a bit more space or private time than others. Wait for the cat to come to you to be stroked. Don't hold the cat down; if she feels like leaving, let her leave.
Touch - Keep a light touch when petting a new cat until you learn what they prefer. Don't rub their fur the wrong way; always stroke them from head to tail.
Excitement - Some cats get over-excited when petted (especially a cat that is new to you). So if the cat looks edgy, that may not be the best time for a cuddle.
Locations - Many cats like stroking around their scent glands. This means around their face, on top of their head, under their chin, and at the base of their tail. Most cats love a full-body stroke that starts at their head and ends at the tail base. Cats usually adore petting around their ears, but do it gently. Again, each animal is an individual so pay attention to their body language, so you'll know if they are enjoying it.
Body Language - Learning a bit of cat body language will help you bond with any cat. If she is thumping her tail or swishing it back and forth quickly, growling, or if her pupils are dilated - it's time to back off.
Ears flattened against her head are signs of discomfort, as are short bursts of grooming, blinking, or remaining passive when you pet her (no purring or rubbing against you). These are signs that it's time for the cat to get a bit of space. Happy signs are purring, paw kneading, a slowly waving tail, a relaxed posture, and a gentle nudge if you stop.
Belly Rubs - Most dogs love a belly rub; cats not so much (some do - but get to know the cat before you try a belly rub). If you're petting a cat and she rolls over to show her belly, she is not necessarily asking for a belly rub. She is saying she trusts you when she is in this position, but not necessarily that she wants you to scratch her tummy.
Now you're a master at cat petting, so now go find a cat to snuggle with!
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