For pet parents, petting is the first and most common thing to develop a strong bond with their fur babies. But, it is required to understand your pet’s liking before you indulge in a petting session. Cats are very specific about their preferences for human touch and like to have a clear say in the way they are petted. If your furball feels threatened or dislikes the petting, they may get aggressive or stressed. Of course, each cat is different and so are their likes and dislikes. This article will give you a general idea about things to consider while petting a cat so that it becomes a pleasant experience for both you and your feline.

Here, we have mentioned a stepwise cat petting guide and the details of where to pet cats and where not to. Read on to find out the details.

Do cats enjoy petting?

Unlike dogs, not all cats enjoy the proximity of humans. Cats are very independent in nature and their human companions have to put in efforts to develop a strong bond with them. Besides, not all cats have the same preferences. Some cats enjoy petting on the head, some may feel more pleased with scratching on the tail, while others may be alright with only a light touch. That is why; there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to petting a cat. Observe your feline’s body language to understand their touch threshold and pet them accordingly.

How to pet cats- a stepwise guide

1. Let the cat approach

Cats like to be the decision maker for their interactions. So for a successful communication, it is best to let the cat decide for themselves. Get to your cat’s adaption level so that they do not feel threatened by you looming over them. Be calm and wait. Let them approach you on their own. Do not corner your fur baby, the area should be open in such a way that they can run away if they are not comfortable.

2. Extend a hand

If your furry friend is coming near you, it is a positive sign. Extend your hand out, keep it still, and observe their reaction. If your feline companion sniffs your hand and touches your hand with their head, you have got the first green signal that they are ready to let you touch them. If your cat goes away from you or sits still without giving any reaction, take a step back. Do not force the issue as they may not be ready to get touched.

3. Start petting softly

Begin petting gently on your furball’s head. Go slow, and do not frighten them. Pet your feline in the direction of their fur, from head to the tip of the tail. Avoid petting in the reverse direction as this can hurt them and cause discomfort.

4. Observe the body language

Pay attention to your cat’s body language while you are petting them. If you hear soft purring sounds, it means they are enjoying it. Continue with petting if you find them happy and relaxed. Whereas, if you see flattened ears, twitched tail, or they are trying to move away from you; stop petting. It is a clear sign that they are no longer comfortable with your touch.

Where to pet cats

Precise about their likings, cats appreciate petting only the specific parts of their bodies. Cats prefer petting the areas that have scent glands as these glands release pheromones which help them form positive social relationships and feel comfortable and content. The areas where cats enjoy petting the most are the cheeks, chin, top of the head, behind the ears, shoulders, and base of the tail.

Areas where cats do not like petting

Though every cat has their own petting preferences, there are some body parts where the majority of cats do not like petting. Touching on stomach, chest, legs, paws, and tail makes felines feel threatened. Additionally, cats who were not introduced to touching in these parts during their socialisation period (two to seven weeks of age) may not feel comfortable with the touch in adulthood. So if you do not know your cat well yet, it is best to avoid these areas while petting them. For any queries, Consult our Vet. 

To conclude

Cats have clear preferences regarding the human touch. However enjoyable and comforting it is for you to pet and cuddle with your furry friend, it is advisable to pet cats in a way they are comfortable. Follow the steps mentioned in this article, go slow and be gentle during the petting sessions. Avoid petting the areas your feline is not comfortable and make the petting exercise relaxing and enjoyable for both you and your four-legged friend.