{"id":32396,"date":"2024-08-24T17:48:51","date_gmt":"2024-08-24T17:48:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cats.com\/?p=32396"},"modified":"2024-08-24T17:48:51","modified_gmt":"2024-08-24T17:48:51","slug":"how-to-pet-a-cat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cats.com\/how-to-pet-a-cat","title":{"rendered":"Dos and Don\u2019ts of Petting a Fearful Cat"},"content":{"rendered":"
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When you first pictured adopting a cat, you may have had soothing thoughts of purr-filled cuddle sessions on the couch. In reality, your attempts to pet your cat are sometimes met with scratches, tail swishes, and nips.<\/p>\n

Why, oh why, can it be so hard to pet some cats? There are a few reasons\u2014some may be temporary and some may be unique to your cat. But there are some important things to learn about your cat that will make it easier to know how much affection they want and when to give it.<\/p>\n

Not All Cats Like Affection<\/h2>\n

A desire for affection often depends on the socialization<\/a> and handling your cat experienced as a kitten. Oftentimes we don’t know our cat’s history and can’t impact how they were brought up prior to adoption day.<\/p>\n

If you’re adopting a new cat<\/a>, you can ask the adoption center if they know anything about your potential cat’s history. Ask if the cat had positive handling as a kitten or if they have been especially fearful in the shelter. This information may help you determine which cat is right for you.<\/p>\n

Genetics also affect how much a cat wishes to interact. Some kittens are born to very shy mothers who fear people and this can be passed on to her kittens. Being gentle and taking things slow is important for adopting a shy cat<\/a> or kitten. One study showed that bold fathers were more likely to have bold kittens. Those kittens are more likely to be outgoing, adventurous, and less fearful of interactions with people.<\/p>\n

DO:<\/strong> Find out about your cat\u2019s history if you can. If they’ve been handled gently since a young age, they’re more likely to enjoy petting. And if your cat has a gregarious dad, they are more likely to be outgoing too.<\/p>\n

DON\u2019T<\/strong>: Expect all cats to have the same personality<\/a>. Not all cats enjoy affection<\/a> from strangers or even from familiar people. Be patient and take the time to learn how they want to interact.<\/p>\n

Feline Moods and Needs Can Change<\/h2>\n