There’s a pretty adorable pet holiday coming up: the 4th is Hug Your Cat Day! Kitties are pretty huggable. They’re just the right size to hold in our arms, and they can easily fit into our laps. Plus, many of our feline friends love to snuggle. However, there are a few rules for snuggling Fluffy. A Middletown, DE vet goes over them below.
Let Fluffy Decide
The number one rule of cuddling kitties? It’s up to Fluffy to decide when snuggle time starts, and when it stops. Don’t expect your feline overlord to take your needs too much into consideration here. She may ignore you when you’re watching TV, and then demand attention when you’re busy with something that will not benefit from having cat fur on it.
Don’t Force It
Never force attention on a kitty. Cats are both predators and prey in the wild, and they have the instincts of both. Fluffy can get very nervous at being held against her will, and could hurt herself or scratch you trying to get down.
Cuddle Kittens Often
If you have a baby furball, you’ll want to pay her extra attention. Kittens do see their humans as second parents though that special bond has to be nurtured. Many baby cats also crave feeling loved and safe, so letting your little buddy hang out in your arms or on your lap will help her bond to you.
Expect Gear Shifts
One thing we know about our feline pals? They can be rather unpredictable. Fluffy may be purring and content one minute, only to suddenly bite your hand and run off. Nobody is quite sure why cats can change their moods so quickly: it’s just purr for the course.
Relax
Did you know that cuddling Fluffy is good for your health? It can lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack. Kitties also help soothe people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma. As it turns out, those comforting purrs do have healing properties. The same frequencies cats purr at—usually 25 to 150 Hertz—are used in physical therapy.
Offer Alternatives
Not all cats enjoy being hugged or petted. If your furry friend is more aloof, just talk to her or play with her!
Do you have questions or concerns about kitty care? Contact us, your Middletown, DE pet hospital, today!
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