Hug Your Cat Day

Did you know that there’s a very important—and very cute—kitty holiday coming up? June 4th is Hug Your Cat Day! Of course, if it were up to Fluffy, every day would be Hug Your Cat Day. Our feline pals can be very affectionate! In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet discusses hugging cats.

There are many wonderful reasons to hug our feline friends. First and foremost, hugging cats is a great way to relax, especially after a long day. Kitties can also be wonderful sources of comfort in troubled times. If Fluffy starts her engine, there are even more benefits. Cat purrs can actually promote tissue growth and improve bone density. They also help soothe people who are battling depression, anxiety, or grief. Last but not least, hugging pets is just fun!

Kitties have some very adorable ways of showing affection. The purr is probably the cutest: cats actually vibrate with happiness! Fluffy may also curl up on your lap, follow you around, or snuggle up next to you at night. Some of our furry friends’ quirkier displays of affection include rubbing against our legs, attacking them playfully, blinking slowly, and flipping over for belly rubs. (Note: the belly-rub method is sometimes a trap.)

There are some very definitive do’s and don’ts to hugging Fluffy. First, it’s crucial to pick a time when your furball is feeling relaxed and affectionate. If you pick your kitty up, be sure to hold her properly, so her weight is supported by her bottom and/or back legs. Finally, when your feline buddy decides that cuddle time is over, just let her go. Don’t drop her: just set her down gently. Don’t let go until her paws touch the ground!

Kitties all have their own unique purrsonalities. Some are furry little cuddlebugs that want attention 24/7. Others just don’t care to be held or petted, though they may be perfectly content to sleep at your feet or watch you. Never force attention on a cat that doesn’t want it. That’s a huge transgression in the kitty book of rules!

Call us here at Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, anytime. We’re here to help!