Introduction
Just like humans and dogs, cats have different preferences when it comes to petting and being touched. While there are some general areas most cats enjoy being petted, each feline is unique in terms of the type and amount of physical affection they desire.
This article will explore the various ways cats like to be pet and scratched, including areas to focus on and techniques to try. We’ll cover head and cheek rubs, chin and jaw scratches, full body pets, tail pets, and more. Understanding your cat’s particular petting preferences will help strengthen your bond and ensure your furry friend feels safe, loved, and content.
According to an article from Purina, “In general, cats prefer to be stroked along their back or scratched under the chin or around the ears.” (https://www.purina.ca/articles/cat/behaviour/how-do-cats-be-petted)
Head and Cheek Rubbing
Most cats enjoy having their heads and cheeks rubbed and scratched. This is because cats have scent glands in these areas, so when you pet them there, you’re helping them mark you with their scent. When a cat rubs its head against you, that’s their way of scent marking you as belonging to them.
Some of the best spots to focus on when petting a cat’s head and cheeks include:
- Around the ears – Scratching around a cat’s ears releases calming endorphins.
- Under the chin – Most cats love having their chins scratched as it activates scent glands there.
- Temples – Gently rubbing a cat’s temples often makes them purr louder.
According to experts, when petting a cat’s head, use a relaxed scratched or gentle rubs rather than vigorous petting. Focus on areas around the ears, under the chin, and temples. Scratching these areas will release pheromones that can relax and comfort your cat.1
Chin and Jaw Scratches
The underside of a cat’s chin and jawline are highly sensitive areas. Cats love having their chins scratched because it feels pleasurable; the scratching motion releases feel-good endorphins. When a cat exposes its underside and throat to you, it’s a sign that they trust you. Gentle chin and jaw scratches can strengthen the bond between cat and owner.
According to Rover’s pet care experts, nerves in a cat’s chin and jaw connect to feel-good receptors all over their body, so chin scratches stimulate these feel-good sensations. The chin and jaw also have scent glands, so scratching deposits the cat’s scent on you, marking you as theirs (Source).
When scratching under your cat’s chin, use a gentle touch and short strokes with your fingernails. Avoid using too much pressure. Scratch slowly under their jawline as well. Every cat has unique preferences for chin scratches, so observe your cat’s reactions to determine their favorite type of chin rubs.
Full Body Pets
When petting a cat, focus on full strokes down the back and sides as these motions are often most calming for cats. Studies have shown that petting cats reduces stress levels and relieves anxiety in humans and felines alike (https://news.wsu.edu/press-release/2019/07/15/study-demonstrates-stress-reduction-benefits-petting-dogs-cats/). Firm, long strokes, like petting the fur with a soft brush, will be most enjoyable and soothing for your cat.
While some cats enjoy tummy rubs, it’s safest to avoid prolonged stroking of the belly as this area is vulnerable and some cats may become overstimulated. Finally, be sure to always pet with the lay of the fur and avoid stroking against the grain as this can be uncomfortable or irritating.
Tail Pets
Most cats enjoy having the base of their tail gently scratched and petted. The base of the tail is a scent gland area for cats, so petting here helps transfer your scent to the cat which can be comforting and familiarizing. Just be very gentle when petting the tail, using a delicate touch to scratch or massage the area at the base. Avoid pulling, twisting, or otherwise manipulating the tail as this can cause pain and stress for cats [1].
You’ll want to let the cat initiate rubbing their tail against you first before trying to pet it. Cats use their tails to communicate, so grabbing it suddenly can be seen as rude or threatening. Go slowly and pay attention to the cat’s body language. If they start swishing or whipping their tail when you try to pet it, take that as a sign to stop. Each cat has unique preferences, so get to know what your individual cat enjoys. With gentle petting and positive associations, most cats will eventually come to appreciate tail pets.
[1] https://www.wikihow.com/Pet-a-Cat
Avoiding Overstimulation
Cats can easily become overstimulated from too much petting. Signs of overstimulation include swishing tail, ears folded back, skin twitching, and dilated pupils. If you notice these signs, it’s important to immediately stop petting and let the cat take a break.
Cats need to disengage and walk away when they’ve had enough stimulation. Forcing continued contact can cause them to bite or scratch to get away. It’s best to let the cat set the pace and move on once they show signs of overstimulation. Don’t restrain or pick up the cat when it’s trying to escape.
Some cats are more prone to overstimulation than others. Get to know your cat’s unique signals and tolerance for handling. Petting in short intervals with breaks in between may prevent overstimulation. Always let the cat voluntarily re-engage for more when ready after a rest period.
According to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, “This is called petting induced or overstimulation aggression. It’s a common behavior in many cats, and is something that can be both frustrating and frightening when it happens unexpectedly.” (source)
Individual Preferences
Each cat has unique likes and dislikes when it comes to petting and touch. While some cats enjoy tummy rubs and having their full bodies petted, others prefer to only be scratched under the chin or may not like being touched at all. It’s important to pay close attention to a cat’s body language signals to understand their individual preferences.
Look for a cat leaning into your touch or pushing their head against your hand as a sign they are enjoying the petting. Purring, kneading with their paws, or a tail up in greeting are other positive signs. On the other hand, cats show discomfort or overstimulation through behaviors like growling, biting, swatting, pupil dilation, tail swishing, ears back, escaping or hiding.
Get to know what your cat likes best. Gentle experimentation combined with paying attention to their reactions will help you learn what types of petting make your cat the happiest. Always respect their boundaries if they indicate overstimulation. Having patience and working within your cat’s individual comfort zones creates positive experiences for both human and kitty.
Petting Multiple Cats
When there are multiple cats in your home, it’s important to take turns petting each one to prevent jealousy over perceived unequal attention. According to the experts at Daily Paws, “If you have more than one cat, make sure you pay equal attention to all of them. Cats can get jealous if they see you paying too much attention to another feline in the home.”
The key is to divide your petting time equally among all cats, especially if one cat tends to demand more attention. As WikiHow suggests, “If you have multiple cats, try to pet them for equal amounts of time so that none of them feel left out.” Take turns petting each cat, providing a few minutes of focused attention before moving on to the next. This ensures each cat feels valued.
It also helps to keep cats separate at petting time. As Daily Paws advises, “Keep the cats in separate rooms when it’s their turn to receive your undivided attention.” This prevents jealousy and conflict over perceived unequal affection. Give each cat dedicated one-on-one time to build the bond.
Proper Petting Techniques
It’s important to use proper technique when petting cats to ensure a positive experience for both you and your feline friend. As experts from Daily Paws note, you should always let the cat initiate contact before petting. Avoid restraining or forcing interaction if the cat seems uninterested.
When petting a receptive cat, use gentle, consistent motion. Long, smooth strokes down the head, cheeks, chin, and back are usually enjoyed. Avoid pinching or tugging their skin. Let your fingertips glide softly to find the spots each unique cat likes best.
Cats have delicate skin, so a light touch is ideal. WikiHow recommends using just your fingertips or fingernails to gently scratch under the chin or at the base of the jaw. Go slow and pay attention to the cat’s body language to make sure they are comfortable.
With a relaxed, friendly approach and proper technique, petting can be an extremely rewarding experience for both cat and human. Always let the cat set the pace to ensure positive interactions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cats enjoy many types of petting including head and cheek rubbing, chin and jaw scratches, full body pets, and tail pets. However, it’s important to pay close attention to your cat’s signals and body language to avoid overstimulation. Cats have individual preferences when it comes to petting, so make sure to learn what your cat enjoys most. The key is to pet your cat using proper technique in the areas they like best. Always let your cat’s comfort and consent guide the petting session.
By understanding the kinds of petting cats like, and respecting their boundaries, you can strengthen your bond and provide your feline friend with affection and stimulation. A happy cat that welcomes your touch is one of the great joys of being a cat owner. So pet your cat according to their unique preferences, and enjoy the rewarding experience of connecting with your furry companion.