The cat in your arms doesn’t want to be there: here’s why
One of the most common questions many feline lovers ask is why the cat won’t be picked up.
Let us specify, first of all, that if the cat does not want to be in your arms, it does not mean that it does not love its human rather, it shows it in other ways.
There are several factors that can influence kitty’s reluctance
First, the act of being relieved can make a cat feel vulnerable, exposing it to possible threats, which is contrary to its self-preservation instinct.
Another aspect to consider is how a cat was socialized in the first few months of life.
Kittens who have had positive experiences with human contact while growing up tend to be more likely to tolerate and even seek physical contact with humans.
Conversely, cats that have not been properly socialized may associate lifting them with negative or stressful experiences, making them reluctant to be picked up.
However, one of the most common situations we face is that related to the need to pick up the cat to fit it in the carrier for veterinary visits or other necessary trips.
Through a patient and positive approach, it is good to accustom the cat to handling if it is necessary for its safety and well-being.
Getting a cat used to being picked up
Every cat is different, and some may never appreciate being picked up.
With the right approach, other cats can learn to tolerate and even enjoy physical contact with their humans.
It is important to respect their limits and not force them, especially if they show signs of stress or fear.
Before attempting to lift your cat or pick him up, it is advisable to begin by making unobtrusive physical contact, petting him while he is lying or sitting, on his head and along his back.
If it snuggles or purrs, it is a good sign.
Avoid touching the belly, as many cats do not like that area.
How to pick up a cat in the correct way
Holding a cat requires care and some technique to ensure that the feline feels comfortable and unstressed.
Gently lift the cat, keeping one hand under the chest and the other supporting the hind legs.
Make sure his back is well supported so that he feels safe and comfortable.
Throughout the process, carefully observe the cat’s reaction.
When a cat is picked up, it may try to stretch, snuggle or, conversely, wriggle.
These behaviors may indicate whether the cat is comfortable or not.
If it shows signs of stress, put it down gently and try later.
Cats should never be lifted by the scruff of the neck
La scruff is the part of the neck where the skin is particularly flexible, and in the wild, cat mothers use this method to carry their young.
However, this technique is only valid up to a point, as kittens have a very different body structure than adult cats.
In adult cats, the scruff skin is not designed to support the weight of the entire body.
Lifting a cat by the scruff of the neck can cause muscle injury or damage the cervical vertebrae.
The bony and muscular structures of an adult cat are not adapted to tolerate the traction and pressure that can result from inappropriate lifting.
There are specific times when it is not advisable to hold a cat, such as when it is frightened or nervous or in the presence of loud noises.
In a crowded or noisy environment, the cat may feel threatened and react aggressively or flee.
For advice on your cat’s management, checkups and periodic checkups, contact the veterinary doctors on our staff who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
