A solid question for a day that celebrates cat cuddles.
Of course you can hug cats! As long as you read the signals and back off if your cat is not a hugger.
Here’s are some signs to watch for:
Your Cat is Not A Hugger If He...
Sees you reaching out and runs away
Starts hissing or scratching (being defensive)
Starts making low, throaty noises
Suddenly tenses up
Shows signs of stress (abnormal behaviour) like peeing out of his litter box or have diarrhoea
Be sensitive to the signs because a hug to show love is pointless if you’re just gonna cause your cat discomfort. There are other ways to show love to him (yummy and healthy treats being one of them).
Anti-hugs Furever?
Sometimes it is about building your relationship with kitty to a point where you can have a cuddle without him freaking out or clawing your eyes out. Perhaps your first attempt to give a hug was not right or you unknowingly startled him. You can keep trying different approaches and take it slow until he is comfortable enough.
Here are some tips:
Be sure your cat can see you coming and inch closer bit by bit. Avoid approaching when he is sleeping because you will definitely startle him. (Some cats may be possessive over their food too, so don't approach them during mealtimes.)
If you can, be patient and let him come to you.
No sudden movements. Reach out to pat him or gently massage under his chin.
Once he seems comfortable enough, you can rest your arms loosely around him.
Go slow with a small short hug, and let him go.
Repeat the steps above and you may be rewarded with a proper cuddle in time.
The truth is, no one (animal or human) likes to be stalked and startled. So be friendly, patient, respect your cat’s boundaries and in time, your affections will be reciprocated in hugs or in other ways. Of course there are exceptions of really aloof cats or rescue cats who need a lot more time (which may seem like forever). But there are so many other ways to love and enjoy them.
And if you need advice on cat behaviour or if you’re having trouble with your cat, book a consult with our experienced vets at Gaia.
