Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
PROPER HANDLING KEEPS A CAT HAPPY
Holding and carrying a cat properly is important. Of course you do not
want to injure the cat, and if the cat feels insecure she may injure you
trying to get away.There are various techniques that work well, and you
can master them with practice and experience. If you have children, be
sure to work with them and teach them how to gently and safely han-
dle the cat. (Cats seem to have extra tolerance around children and are
willing to put up with more than they normally would from you.)
The whiskers and tail of a cat are very sensitive to touch. Do not
hold or pull a cat's whiskers.A cat's tail is an extension of her spine, and
if you pull too hard, you can cause damage to the end of the spinal col-
umn where important nerves controlling urination and defecation are
found.
When working with a cat, it is important to be gentle but firm.
Cats are quite adept at reading human body language. If you are not
confident about your ability to pick up or hold a cat, the cat knows it
and will take advantage of the situation.
The best way to pick up a cat is to first extend your hand and let
the cat sniff it.This gives the cat a chance to know who you are. Next,
scratch the cat between the ears and along the cheekbones or chin.
Approaching the cat from the side is less threatening than looming over
her. Put one hand firmly behind the armpits of the front legs and lift
the cat up, then scoop up the hind legs with your other hand from
below. Hold the cat gently against your body for additional support. A
cat who feels secure is less likely to struggle.
It is acceptable to hold a cat, even an adult, by the scruff of her
neckā€”but please don't try to lift her off the ground this way. This is
the hold the mother cat used on her as a kitten. Most cats will natu-
rally relax when held in this manner.A large cat may be difficult to hold
well in this way, and you will need to support her hind end.
You can cradle a cat in your arms by scooping her up with one arm
at the front of her chest and the other arm behind her tail. This posi-
tion should also support the hind legs. For more security, you can hold
the hind legs in this position with your hands.
Some cats tolerate being carried cradled like a baby. But upside down
cradling is a very submissive posture, and many cats will not allow it.
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