The Rules of Petting Cats

Is your cat a bit finicky about when—and how—you are allowed to pet her? Some of our feline buddies are quite the little snugglebugs, and would love to be cuddled and petted 24/7. Others? Not so much. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet lists some of the rules of petting cats.

The first rule of petting cats is that it is always up to the cat to decide when cuddle time stops and starts. Fluffy also has the right to stop or start snuggling at a moment’s notice. Do not be surprised if your kitty hops into your lap to demand attention right meow while you are busy doing something. Fluffy may also completely ignore you when you actually have time to snuggle. That’s just what cats do. Never try to force attention on a cat who doesn’t want to be petted.

As you may have noticed, Fluffy can be a bit temperamental. She may be purring and cuddly one minute, and irritated the next. If you pet your cat her one time too many, she may walk away, meow in protest, or even give you a little nip. Just pay attention to your kitty’s expression and body language if she nibbles you. If she’s purring and rolling around, she could just be feeling silly or playful. Time for a play session! If she flattens her ears or lashes her tail, it’s probably safe to say that your feline friend is not in a good mood. Back away slowly and just let leave her alone until she feels sociable again.

Some kitties just don’t care to be petted or cuddled. No matter how cute your furball looks, you have to remember what cats actually are: fierce little predators that are amazingly self-sufficient. If Fluffy doesn’t like being petted or held, don’t force her. Just admire your kitty from a distance, and bond with her by talking to her and playing with her. Pampering your aloof pet with toys, treats, cat furniture, and, of course, proper veterinary care, will still help keep her healthy and happy, and keep that little motor going.

Please contact Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your local Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, anytime. We are here to help!