Anyone who has a cat, or has lived with one, knows that it is not uncommon to take a bite or scratch occasional. Sometimes it is because we put our hand in at the least appropriate moment and, other times, because our little cat is tired of being caressed or considers that we are not doing it in the way that he considers correct.
And the truth is that, although a scratch from time to time, as payment for petting our kitten, is worth it, it would not be bad to be able to save it. Luckily, there is a proper way to pet cats that ensures they never feel the need to take a bite.
The first thing is to understand that, although they are domestic animals, they still have a very pronounced wild instinct. Therefore, the key is to follow your rhythm. Learning to know the cat’s signals will save our hands from many troubles. The key is to know when the cat is relaxed and in the mood for cuddles, as that will be the perfect moment to bring your hands closer. If he’s in a playful mood, it’s better to move his hands away and bring a toy closer.
Now that we know that, the next question is where to pet him. And it is that cats have favorite areas and others that will not let you touch them. Each cat can have his favorites-mine doesn’t let anyone touch his belly-, but, in general, everyone likes to be touched around the cheeks and chinas well as right between her little ears.
If you want to go for the 10, it’s a good idea to watch its response when you pet it. Let him be the one to initiate the contact, look at his tail and if he moves it vigorously from one side to the other, being low, it is better to leave the caresses for another day. Nevertheless, if it purrs, it means that you’re doing well.
If it moves away from the hand, flattens its ears or tries to bite us, it is better to leave it for another moment in which the cat is more receptive, because the next warning will surely not be so relaxed. With these keys, and knowing that all cats have different personalities and not all have the same pampering needs, there is no reason why we cannot have a perfect relationship with the king of our house.
Images | little plant on Unsplash and Paul Hanaoka on Unsplash
In Jared | It was the favorite breed of dog of the Romans, part of the Egyptian royalty and today it is one of the most expensive and demanded breeds.