Did you know that June 4th is Hug Your Cat Day? Of course, we think kitties deserve to be hugged every day. After all, Fluffy really does brighten up our lives with her cute antics, adorable meows, and loving purrs and cuddles. However, there are some definite do’s and don’t to cuddling with cats. Read on as a local Aurora, CO vet offers tips on how to properly hug your feline pal.
Timing
Pick a time when your kitty is feeling relaxed. (This probably won’t be difficult, given how much time cats spend sleeping.) You’ll want to make sure that your furball is feeling friendly. If Fluffy seems grumpy or playful, it probably isn’t a good time for a hug.
Picking Fluffy Up
Be very careful when picking up your feline buddy. You want to be sure her weight is supported properly. Support her back legs with one arm. With the other arm, you can cradle your kitty against your chest. Fluffy may put her paws on your shoulder and rub her head against you. She may even close her eyes and doze off a little! Just be careful not to hold your furry friend around the belly. This is very dangerous, as it can actually damage your pet’s internal organs.
Lap Cats
Does your furry pal sometimes jump into your lap when she wants to cuddle? This is a great way to relax while reading or watching TV. If Fluffy jumps onto your lap, she is in a way giving you a kitty hug. That’s a sure sign that your feline overlord is pleased with you!
Purr Activation
The next step is to get your kitty’s motor started. Gently stroke Fluffy’s head or forehead, going in the direction of her fur. Some cats also like ear scritches or chin rubs.
Putting Your Pet Down
When Fluffy decides that hug time is over, just let her go. Never try to force attention on a cat. This is a huge no-no in the kitty rulebook! Place your furry buddy down on the floor gently. Don’t just drop your feline friend: make sure that all four of your furball’s paws are on the ground before you let go.
Please do not hesitate to contact us, your local Aurora, CO vet clinic, if we can ever be of assistance. We are dedicated to providing excellent veterinary care!
