If this is your first time adopting a cat from a no-kill rescue/shelter, you undoubtedly will want to spend quality time with your new "forever friend". Here are a few tips to creating a lifelong bond between the two of you and show him/her affection is through petting.
First, cats are not like dogs. Cats thrive on attention and unlike a dog, (which people "pat"); cats love long gentle stroking and scratching. This is a learned behavior from their mother. Also, if you ignore your cat it will eventually come to you for attention to show its appreciation for you understanding its need for "space". Wait until the cat is fully awake until you try stroking him/her. If the cat is tired and thus fully asleep, you may startle your fur companion and that may leave a bad memory for future attempts.
During the first attempts to pet your cat, try sitting on the floor with reading material spread on the floor or with one of their favorite toys. If this is unsuccessful, try sitting near their cat perch, cat furniture or their favorite place to nap. Cats love being stroked on the top of the head, below the chin, down the back, and on the back of their neck (especially if they wear a collar). Stick to these choice spots if you want your cat to warm up to you. Stay away from petting their paws, (another article will address the benefits of "paw play"), tail, lower back, and stomach.
Be wary when petting a cat while it is lying on its side. It may seem affectionate after petting it for a while, but if it then suddenly moves to somewhere nearby but just out of reach of your hands (such as an ottoman), that most likely means your cat is 'done' with its petting session. If you think you are safe attempting it while laying on its side, pet it with your thumb perpendicular, but facing towards its head. Try sitting on the toilet and leaving the bathroom door open. The feline's curiosity is sure to bring them within reach. I have known people, (including myself), where a cat will actually climb into the pants of their "pet parent". It may seem odd, but this is a sign that the cat is fully trusting of you. If you have been previously unsuccessful petting, this is a perfect time to start. Try scratching your cat between the shoulder blades - this is a spot they can't reach easily, and they generally love it.
One emotion new pet parents experience is a fear of either hurting the cat, being bitten or clawed. Don't be scared of the cat. If you are scared, the cat will be too. Remember, no matter what it seems like, you're in control. You're the pet parent. You're the one buying the food. The cat knows this, but also seems to know when you want to give them that loving affection of petting!
First, cats are not like dogs. Cats thrive on attention and unlike a dog, (which people "pat"); cats love long gentle stroking and scratching. This is a learned behavior from their mother. Also, if you ignore your cat it will eventually come to you for attention to show its appreciation for you understanding its need for "space". Wait until the cat is fully awake until you try stroking him/her. If the cat is tired and thus fully asleep, you may startle your fur companion and that may leave a bad memory for future attempts.
During the first attempts to pet your cat, try sitting on the floor with reading material spread on the floor or with one of their favorite toys. If this is unsuccessful, try sitting near their cat perch, cat furniture or their favorite place to nap. Cats love being stroked on the top of the head, below the chin, down the back, and on the back of their neck (especially if they wear a collar). Stick to these choice spots if you want your cat to warm up to you. Stay away from petting their paws, (another article will address the benefits of "paw play"), tail, lower back, and stomach.
Be wary when petting a cat while it is lying on its side. It may seem affectionate after petting it for a while, but if it then suddenly moves to somewhere nearby but just out of reach of your hands (such as an ottoman), that most likely means your cat is 'done' with its petting session. If you think you are safe attempting it while laying on its side, pet it with your thumb perpendicular, but facing towards its head. Try sitting on the toilet and leaving the bathroom door open. The feline's curiosity is sure to bring them within reach. I have known people, (including myself), where a cat will actually climb into the pants of their "pet parent". It may seem odd, but this is a sign that the cat is fully trusting of you. If you have been previously unsuccessful petting, this is a perfect time to start. Try scratching your cat between the shoulder blades - this is a spot they can't reach easily, and they generally love it.
One emotion new pet parents experience is a fear of either hurting the cat, being bitten or clawed. Don't be scared of the cat. If you are scared, the cat will be too. Remember, no matter what it seems like, you're in control. You're the pet parent. You're the one buying the food. The cat knows this, but also seems to know when you want to give them that loving affection of petting!
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