Your cat has scent glands near their ears, so head bunting is a way for their to leave their scent on you. They may also rub their cheek against you to mark you with their scent. [3] X Research source Marking you with their scent is one way of them communicating that they like you. To show you that they like you, your cat may establish eye contact with you and softly blink. The eye contact demonstrates that they trust you. [4] X Research source Softly blinking back at them will show them that the trust is mutual. Imitating some of your cat’s body language back to them, such as the head bunting and soft blinking, will deepen your bond with them and show them that you have affection for them. Other examples of their affectionate body language include soft purring, kneading you with their front paws (“making biscuits”), sitting on your lap, and licking you. [5] X Research source
If you have an older and/or more sedate cat, she may prefer a toy that she does not have run or chase after, such as a catnip-filled toy that she can play with when laying down. Be sure to rotate the toys on a regular basis so that they do not become bored with their toy selection. [6] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source If you do not want to spend a lot of money on toys, you can also turn common household items into toys for your cat. For example, empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls and paper bags with the handles removed can be fun for your cat to play with. [7] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Be mindful of toys that your cat should not play with—ribbons, strings, rubber bands—due to the potential of them swallowing them. Swallowing any of these toys could lead them to getting stuck in, and wrapped around, your cat’s intestines. This would lead to serious medical problems requiring extensive veterinary care. These medical problems could be even fatal. Also, be aware of toys that have smaller components, such as plastic eyes, that your cat could remove and potentially swallow. [8] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source If you are unsure about which toys would work best for your cat, talk with your veterinarian or visit your local pet store for additional advice.
If your work schedule allows for it, schedule play sessions at dawn and dusk, with each session lasting 5 to 15 minutes. Keep in mind that older or overweight cats may not have the endurance for long play sessions. [10] X Research source [11] X Research source No matter what time of day you play with them, make sure that your playtime is at about the same time each day. This will give them something to look forward to, and will help you develop and maintain regular and positive bonding sessions with them. [12] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
Ideally, the first ingredient of their food should be a protein, such as turkey or chicken. Because of the wide variety of cat food available at your grocery store and local pet store, consult with your veterinarian to determine which type of food would be best for your cat. Depending on your cat’s age and current health status, some foods may be better for them than others. How often you feed your cat partially depends on their age. Kittens up to 6 months of age should be fed 3 times a day. Twice-daily feedings are good for cats who 6 months of age to 1 year old. Beyond 1 year of age, once-daily feedings should be sufficient. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can also influence how often you feed your cat. The amount to feed your cat will depend on several factors, such as their size, activity level, and age. [14] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source [15] X Research source Although there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to how much to feed your cat, there are some general weight-based recommendations for dry food: 5 lbs (1/4 to 1/3 cup), 10 lbs (3/8 to 1/2 cup), and 15 lbs (1/2 to 3/4 cup). [16] X Research source Consult with your veterinarian about the amount and type of food you should feed your cat at feeding time.
Cat treats are available at your local pet store and grocery store. In general, do not treat your cat with human food. In fact, some human foods (e. g. , grapes, onions, raisins) are toxic to your cat and should be avoided. [18] X Research source Catnip is an excellent treat for cats. [19] X Research source Treats are useful when rewarding them for good behavior.
Keep in mind that your cat may not want to be petted all the time, or for long periods of time, even when looking relaxed and content. [21] X Expert Source Brian Bourquin, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 20 December 2019. If their body language tells you that they are overstimulated by petting (dilated pupils, fur twitches, tail wagging like a dog),[22] X Research source or they try to move away from you, give them some space to be alone. Let them dictate how much they’re comfortable with you petting them. When you pet them, gently stroke your hand in the areas where they like to be petted. You can even talk to them in a calm and soothing voice to make the experience more enjoyable for the both of you. In addition to petting your cat, consider brushing and grooming her,[23] X Research source if they will let you. Brushing and grooming are ways for you to learn the areas in which your cat likes, and does not like, to be touched.
In the wild, cats are aware that they can be predator and prey at the same time. The belly houses the most vital organs,[27] X Research source so if you reach for their belly when they’re unaware of your harmless intentions, their prey mentality might be triggered and they may do all they can to protect that area of their body. When your cat is stretched out and showing their belly, they may feeling very relaxed and comfortable in their environment. [28] X Research source However, they might be demonstrating defensive behavior. [29] X Research source To be on the safe side, do not mistake the showing of their belly as your cat’s invitation to rub their belly. [30] X Research source Even though some cats may not mind their bellies being rubbed, it is best to avoid this area and pet your cat only in the areas where you know they enjoy being touched. [31] X Research source
Just as your cat can show you affectionate body language (e. g. , purring, head bunting), they can also let you know when they’ve had enough and want to be alone. For example, if they start growling, hissing, or spitting, give them some space and alone time until they calm down. [32] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source Your cat may also simply become physically tired from playing and will probably stop on their own. Avoiding forced interactions is especially important if your cat is timid. [33] X Research source
Physically punishing your cat will likely make them fearful and wary of you. [36] X Expert Source Brian Bourquin, DVMVeterinarian Expert Interview. 20 December 2019. Rather than yelling at them, you can try giving them a firm ‘no’ in a stern voice when they demonstrate bad behavior. [37] X Research source
