Express your bond with your cat in a caring and affectionate way with a hug. If your cat is used to being held and doesn't mind being close to you, cuddling can be a great way to show affection.
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Part 1 of 3: Understanding Cats
Step 1. Understand your cat's temperament
Before trying to cuddle, understand your cat's temperament. Not all cats like physical contact so they can scratch or bite if hugged. Before trying to cuddle, make sure that your cat is a loving type of cat.
- Spend time with your cat. Play with your cat in one room for about an hour. Pay attention to how your cat interacts with you. Does your cat tend to get spoiled, come closer, and rub their face against you? Or do cats tend to be cold, sitting close to you but not wanting to be touched much?
- The former are safer to cuddle with because they tend to relax more when picked up and held. A cold or shy cat may not like being touched that way.
Step 2. Learn the cat's body language
When frightened, even a warm and loving cat may throw a tantrum. Spend a little time learning your cat's body language. This will help you guess when the cat is in a good mood.
- When they feel happy, cats show it with their bodies. The ears are usually slightly pointed forward, the eyes are half closed and the pupils are narrow, the tail is standing with a curved tip, and the back is also curved with flat (not standing) fur. When happy to see you, the cat will also meow softly or make a sound similar to a purr.
- On the other hand, an aggressive or frightened cat will growl or meow loudly and in a low tone. The cat will also dilate its pupils, move its tail back and forth or tuck it between its legs, and arch its back with the fur standing up. You should never try to hug a cat in this condition.
Step 3. Watch the cat's response when picked up
Even a friendly and loving cat may refuse to be adopted. Cats are animals that tend to be independent and often refuse to be restricted. However, cats who live with small children and are often carried around usually don't mind being picked up. Cats who don't like being picked up may smack or squirm at your hand. Cats who don't like being picked up can be cuddled, but you should do this without picking them up.
Part 2 of 3: Hugging Cats
Step 1. Wash your hands
You should always wash your hands before cuddling or petting a cat. Make sure that your hands are free of anything that might provoke the cat's anger.
- Wash your hands with clean water and soap to lather for about 20 seconds. Be sure to clean between your fingers, the inside of your nails, and the backs of your hands. To calculate the time, you can also wash your hands while singing "Happy Birthday" twice.
- Rinse under running water and dry hands with a clean towel.
Step 2. Let the cat approach you
Never sneak up to cuddle a cat. You also shouldn't disturb a cat that is sleeping, playing, or eating. Let the cat approach you. Sit in the same room as the cat and wait for the cat to call for your attention. When your cat approaches you and starts making noises similar to purring or scratching his nails, you can safely cuddle him.
Step 3. Pet the cat first
Don't hug her right away, as the cat might startle. Pet the cat first before hugging it.
- Caress the cat's back, shoulders, under the chin, and behind the cat's ears. Cats tend to dislike having their belly or sides of the body touched because these are vulnerable areas.
- Relax your cat by talking in a soothing, gentle voice.
Step 4. Hug your cat
Once you seem calm and happy, you can try cuddling the cat. Hug gently and stop if the cat seems irritated.
- Some cats may jump on your chest if you stand in front of them. If your cat does, try to bend over and see if the cat puts its hand on your shoulder. Then gently lift the cat toward your chest by lifting its hind legs with one hand and holding it in position with the other.
- Remember, not all cats like to be picked up. If the cat refuses to be held, try to cuddle it by placing your arms around its body while the cat is sitting or lying down. Many cats who don't like to be picked up love this type of cuddle.
- Cats like different cuddling techniques, depending on their personality. However, almost all cats like to get support all over their bodies when cuddled. Make sure the bottom of the leg is also supported. Try holding his chest or back with one hand and the back of his leg with the other.
Part 3 of 3: Showing Love in Other Ways
Step 1. Comb your cat's fur
Cats like to have their fur combed because it keeps it clean. Cats also like the sensation of having their fur combed because it allows scratching areas where their claws can't reach. Hard-to-reach areas, such as the back of the neck or under the chin, should be gently brushed occasionally to avoid tangling. You can buy a special comb for cats at the nearest pet shop.
Step 2. Pet your cat
Most cats like to be petted. If your cat doesn't like being picked up, you can show affection by petting him every day.
- Always allow the cat to approach you. Cats do not like to be disturbed while doing their activities. Your cat will show its desire to be petted by gently scratching your hand, rubbing its body, and sitting on your lap.
- Be sure to pay attention to areas your cat likes to pet. Some cats don't like it when certain points on the sides of their bodies and belly are touched. If the cat growls or moves away, try petting it at a different point.
Step 3. Play with your cat
Cats of all ages love to play. Most cats need 15-20 minutes to play each day.
- Cats like toys that are similar to the prey they would chase in the wild. Toys with faux fur can be a great choice for cats. Try attaching a toy mouse to a string or buying a toy bird that has a tool like a fishing rod so you can make the bird "fly".
- Cats tend to be more active in the morning. So, if possible, play with your cat after waking up.
