Where Not To Pet A Cat

Petting along the back or near the tail can even trigger an unexpected aggressive response.

Where not to pet a cat. Most cats enjoy being pet on the back of the head under the chin and behind the ears. While there are always exceptions petting a cats stomach should be avoided especially if its a cat you dont know well. Whether its the vomited fur balls on the carpet the stinky litter tray the clawed and shredded furniture or the slaughtered neighborhood population of small birds and mammals cats have a lot to answer for. For many people the years of unconditional love and devotion they receive from their furry kids far outweigh the daily responsibilities.

Leave the stomach alone as a rule the one place to stay away from when it comes to petting is the cats stomach. In fact theres so much science to it that dr. This is viewed as a vulnerable spot on a cats body and touching the belly may cause your cat to stiffen hiss and even claw you. Cats are dependent on their owners for all their needs food water medical attention exercise shelter and most important companionship.

Although there are certainly exceptions its safest to avoid petting a cat on the belly. Dont pet a cat when it is on its back. To learn how to interpret other signs and signals the cat might give you read on. Some cats will let you pet them along their back too.

Many cats mine included enjoy being pet on their head and neck but not necessarily any lower down on their body says dr. One of the reasons we love cats so much is because theyre particular about many things including of course where they like to be petted. Though it may sound strange too much petting can lead to over stimulation or aggression so look out for any changes in the cats behavior as you pet it. In addition to avoiding their bellies many cats will eagerly tell their owners that any part south of the neck is a no go.

A lot of cats dislike being pet on their belly tail legs and paws so try to avoid these areas. However it is actually a sign that the cat is showing submission to you and that it trusts you not to violate its personal space. Where not to pet. If you attempt to pet those areas watch the cats body language very carefully.

A cat will often roll on its back exposing its belly to you and looking as cute as it possibly can. They may be the worlds most popular pet but our furry feline friends have plenty of downsides. Some spots always seem to turn on the purring machine in your feline while others inevitably draw out the claws. Be gentle and pet in the direction the cats fur grows in.

Not all parts on your cats body beckon petting. To many people this looks like an invitation to rub the cats belly. If the cat seems relaxed you can try petting it. Most cats detest what most dogs love.

So resist petting the belly even if your cat appears relaxed next to you and is in the belly up position. Aww your cat loves you. Scratching or gently petting these areas usually feels good to cats as theyre the areas they naturally rub against other things and people to spread their scent.