Mary Allen
Today, June 4th is “Hug Your Cat” Day. The perfect occasion to hug our chicks again. But not all cats like to be hugged.
This fluffy fur, those googly eyes, and those velvety paws – cats are without question sweet as sugar. Well, at least when they’re not extending their claws. That’s why cat lovers all over the world celebrate a loving relationship with their kitties on today’s “Hug Your Cat” day.
Hugging cats isn’t always a good idea, however. Because while the gesture is a sign of affection for us humans, close physical contact with the velvet paws can lead to stress. After all, such a hug is pretty tight. And as born hunters, cats instinctively associate this feeling with having been caught by a predator.
In particular, cats that you don’t know well shouldn’t be hugged so boldly. This is what veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker on her blog “Healthy Pets”.
Hugging Cats Properly
Depending on your cat’s character, he or she will enjoy hugs more or less. Some kitties are very cuddly and naturally seek to be close to their humans. Others, on the other hand, may prefer to keep their distance and run away before hugs.
Studies have also shown that cats prefer human touches that are similar to those of their fellow cats – hugs tend not to be one of them. Most kitties, on the other hand, like to be caressed gently. This movement is reminiscent of the mutual grooming that cats groom each other when they like and trust each other.
Particularly popular parts of the body for caresses with the velvet paws are the chin, cheeks, and below the ears. Some kitties, on the other hand, are sensitive to being touched near their tails or on the belly. Experts suspect that these parts of the body could be particularly sensitive to touch.
In addition, the stomach is a very vulnerable place – if a predator bites the cat in the stomach, it would die very quickly. No association that your darling should associate with your petting, right?
With Tick Repellants, It is Better to Avoid Hugs
Whether your cat likes hugs or not, if she’s wearing a tick collar or has just received a spot-on to protect against fleas and other parasites, you shouldn’t cuddle. The Federal Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) is currently pointing out this.
Then it is better not to hug the cat or touch the collar. It is best to treat your cats with anti-tick or flea agents in the evening and not let them sleep in bed with you afterward. Otherwise, there is a risk of side effects such as itching or reddening of the skin.