Cats are mysterious and independent. They are not easily motivated and ready to work for praise like dogs. But they can also be understood and trained. Though the process is a little more time consuming, it is purrfectly rewarding. Here is how to make your cat like you more.
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1. Learn your cat’s body language
Getting fluent in cat body language is all about understanding the subtle messages your pet sends you with its tail, eyes, ears, and the sounds it makes. It helps to decide if you should give your fluff-ball some space or interact with them, feed them or play a game, take them to the vet or arrange a comforting hiding place. Once you know what your cat wants and can make it happen for them, this is when your relationship becomes perfect. Despite popular belief, cats can be grateful.
2. Slow down and speak softly
Scientists have found that cats like it when you slowly blink at them or narrow your eyes in slow motion, Daily Paws write. Cats will normally return the friendly sign and even approach you.
If you decide to come to your kitty yourself, do it slowly by carefully introducing your hand for sniffing first. Move softly, ideally lowering yourself to your cat's level to appear less of a large dominant creature.
As cats are frightened of loud movements, a yelling owner is the last thing they want. If you speak at a lower tone and exude calm, a cat is more likely to see you in their safe space.
3. Bribe your cat with food
One of the quickest ways to a cat's heart is through treats. Use kitty sweets to train your fluff-ball to anticipate good things when you pet them.
When you give a cat a meal of wet food or a treat, pet them several times while they're eating it and walk away. Do this every day. Eventually, switch to petting first and then give the food or treat. The kitty will come to associate petting with something good. Lisa Radosta, the board-certified veterinary behaviourist at Florida Veterinary Behaviour Service, says that this trick works even if a cat doesn't like you that much.
4. Pet your cat in all the right places
When your kitty gives you the green light for petting, you better know exactly where to scratch them.
The best area for a pet is from the top of the head to the shoulders, where felines normally groom each other. Some cats also like to be petted on the back. But if you see the cat's tail start to thrash, it's a warning that they are tolerating it, but not loving it. Keep in mind that furry enigmas are protective of their bellies - no belly rubs.
5. Respect your cat's space
There is nothing more important for cats than their personal space. They like to decide about their social interaction, so when you move toward them without an invitation, it can come off as threatening.
If you want to earn a cat's affection, wait for it to come to you rather than reaching out and petting or picking them up.
To do a little consent test,offer your pointer finger to the cat and see if it pushes its head up against it. That's a sign your fluff-ball is in the mood for more socialising. Pet it five or six times and then stop and do the consent test again. This allows a cat to let you know when they've had enough.
Sources used:
- Daily Paws: ‘8 Tips to Get Any Cat to Like You More’
- Mental Floss: ‘10 Science-Backed Tips for Getting a Cat to Like You’
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