How to Approach a Cat: 9 Vet Approved Tips
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Do you often find yourself timid around cats? Maybe you were scratched or bitten by one at a young age, and now you’re wary when it comes to feline friends. Or perhaps you’re fearful of the unknown and feel like you don’t know how to approach a cat without them jumping away or swatting at you.
Don’t worry—we understand your fear and can offer advice so that you can confidently approach cats in the future! Here are nine expert tips on how to approach a cat. Read on if making friends with felines is your goal!
The 9 Tips on How to Approach a Cat
1. Don’t Make Any Sudden Movements
Cats are naturally alert and can become scared if you make any sudden movements. Instead, move slowly and carefully when approaching a cat so that they feel less threatened.
You could try crouching down to their level, talking in a low, soothing voice, and making sure your hands are always visible. If the cat takes comfort in these gentle gestures and starts coming closer, you can continue to make slow and gentle movements.
2. Reward Them With Treats
Offering a cat some treats is a great way to build trust and create a friendly atmosphere. If the cat starts coming close to you, reward their progress with small treats like kibble or cat-friendly treats.
Remember that each cat is different, and you should never force a treat onto them. If they seem uninterested or hesitant, it’s best to take a step back and wait for them to come to you on their own terms.
3. Don’t Stare
Staring at cats can be interpreted as a threat, so it’s important to keep your gaze low and avoid direct eye contact when approaching them.
Instead, blink slowly and focus on their body language—if they seem comfortable and relaxed, you can gradually increase your level of engagement by talking softly or making other gentle gestures.
4. Give Them Time to Become Comfortable With You
When you’re around cats, it’s important to give them time to become comfortable with your presence. Don’t expect them to instantly trust you—it takes a while for cats to form relationships, and they need some patience and understanding to do so.
So be sure to take things slow and let the cat come to you at their own pace.
5. Pay Attention to Body Language
It’s important to pay attention to a cat’s body language when you’re around them. Most cats will let you know if they are feeling threatened or uncomfortable by crouching low, flattening their ears, and hissing or growling.
If this happens, it’s best to take a step back and give the cat some space—they may need time to relax and feel safe before they are able to interact with you.
6. Get on the Cat’s Level
A great way to create a bond with cats is by getting on their level. This means crouching down so your eye level is close to theirs and allowing them to approach you without feeling threatened.
By showing the cat that you respect their space, they will be more likely to come closer and interact with you in a positive way.
7. Speak Softly and Slowly
When you’re trying to approach cats, it’s important to remember that they have sensitive ears and can be easily startled by loud noises or sudden movements. It’s best to speak softly and slowly in order to keep them calm and relaxed.
Talking in a low, soothing voice can help cats feel more comfortable around you. Be sure to use positive words and phrases like “good kitty” or “nice cat” when speaking to them as well.
8. Put Out Your Hand
One of the best ways to let cats know that you are a friend is by putting out your hand for them to sniff. This will allow them to get used to your smell and become more comfortable with you.
Make sure your hand is open and flat so that the cat can approach at their own pace without feeling threatened. If they do come closer, you can try petting them in a gentle and slow motion until they start to feel more relaxed.
9. Don’t Force Interaction
It’s important to remember that cats are independent creatures, and they will decide when it’s time for you to interact with them. If a cat seems uncomfortable or hesitant, don’t try to force the interaction—this will only make them more scared and create a negative experience.
Instead, take things slow and wait for the cat to come to you on their own terms. Once they start getting comfortable with your presence, you can gradually increase the level of engagement until they become used to being around you.
Tips to Care for Your Cat
Tips to Care for Your CatNow that you know how to approach cats, it’s time to learn about the special care they need to stay happy and healthy.
Here are some basic tips for caring for your cat:
- Make sure they always have plenty of fresh water available.
- Feed them a nutritionally complete, species-appropriate diet. Consult with your vet or a feline nutritionist for assistance, if needed.
- Provide a scratching post and other toys to keep them occupied.
- Give them regular brushing sessions to keep their coat healthy.
- Visit the vet regularly for check-ups and immunizations.
Being a cat owner is a privilege that requires continual love and care. By following these tips, you can ensure that your cat is happy, comfortable, and well taken care of.
Conclusion
Knowing how to approach cats properly is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. Whether you’re adopting a new cat or getting to know the one that you already have, take the time to learn their individual temperament and adjust your approach accordingly.
Featured Image Credit: yvonneschmu, Pixabay
