June 4th is Hug Your Cat Day! One thing we can say about our feline friends: they are quite affectionate. In fact, some of our feline patients are furry little cuddle bugs, who are purrfectly content to just lounge around and get petted and pampered all day. Continue reading as a local Marin County, CA veterinarian explains hugging Fluffy.

Can I Hug My Cat?

In general, sure, but there are a few things to consider. The golden rule here is to never hug or hold a cat that does not want to be touched. This is unlikely to win your feline pal over; instead, it will likely get you scratched. Fluffy’s trust has to be won. That may take time.

What Are The Most Cuddly Cat Breeds?

Breed does not play as important an influence in Fluffy’s physiology as it does in dogs. However, it is certainly a consideration. While each kitty is unique, a few breeds are known for being little love bugs.

• Tonkinese 
• Russian Blue
• American Shorthair
• Ragamuffin
• Siberian 
• Devon Rex
• Cornish Rex
• Chartreux
• Himalayan 
• Ragdoll
• Maine Coon
• Scottish Fold
• Siamese 
• Persian 
• Burmese 
• Birman
• Sphynx 
• Bombay 
• Abyssinian

Do Cats Enjoy Being Cuddled?

Our feline pals may get a lot of criticism for being cold and aloof, but this isn’t fair. Some just want to be caressed and pampered all the time. Many kitties enjoy it when their owners pet and snuggle them. Fluffy is also the ideal size to curl up on our laps. (It is unclear if she wants to cuddle or simply considers you a pleasant napping area, but that’s another topic.) 

Putting aside the jokes, our adorable feline buddies actually are quite emotional. At the end of the day, all they want is to be petted and held and feeling loved and safe. In fact, research suggests that our feline companions regard us as second parents. 

Kittens, in particular, really want to feel safe and loved. Paying attention to little Fluffy and patting and hugging her, can help strengthen the special connection we share with our feline companions.

How Can I Make My Cat Hug Me?

That’s ultimately up to Fluffy.

Kitties each have their own preferences. Some are just naturally friendly, and others are more wary and aloof. Your pet’s history may be a contributing factor. If your furry pal wasn’t socialized as a kitten and/or spent time as a stray, she might be distrustful. Needless to say, cats that have experienced trauma or abuse may also be timid. Cats sometimes just gradually warm up to people. It’s rather lovely when an aloof, nervous feline crawls into your lap for the first time!

Purrsonality also comes into play. Some cats will only cuddle with their people on their own terms. That means Fluffy may ignore you while you’re watching TV, only to demand attention while you’re doing something else.

It really comes down to treating Fluffy with love and care. There are no shortcuts here. Simply speak to her, pet her, and give attention to her!

How Do You Properly Hug a Cat?

It might not seem like a big deal to pick up your cat, but there are some things you should and shouldn’t do. Be sure to hold her properly. Her weight should be on her hind end or back legs. She may opt to place her front paws on your arm or shoulders; that is okay. The most important thing is to never grab her by the stomach. This can actually cause internal harm. Plus, it’s simply uncomfortable. You probably wouldn’t want to be grabbed by the stomach either!

The other thing? When your pet thinks she’s had enough, let her go. This is crucial for developing trust. If you attempt to hold Fluffy, she may become afraid and defensive.

What Is the Benefit of Hugging Cats?

As it turns out, snuggling with your feline companion benefits both of you. 

As it turns out, embracing kitties may be quite magical. When you and your pet snuggle, a particular hormone is released in both of you. The hormone known as oxytocin is released in both mothers and their infants when they are cuddled together.

Finally, there’s Fluffy’s purr. It turns out that that unique rumble has some cool features. Cats purr at specific frequencies, often between 25 and 140 Hertz. The same frequencies have been demonstrated to promote healing and bone growth. They are also utilized in physical treatment. And, as you may already know, snuggling with a purring cat may be really relaxing.

What If My Cat Doesn’t Enjoy Hugs?

Some of our feline friends are a touch reserved. That is not to say Fluffy does not love you; she may simply prefer to express her affection by hanging out with you, following you around, or even ignoring you! That’s perfectly fine. 

There are various things you can do to start that motor.

In case you need a reminder, these are some of Fluffy’s favorite things:

• New Toys: Fluffy reaps emotional and physical benefits from playing. It’s very important for your kitty to maintain good physical health. Timing those fancy pounces is also terrific for cerebral stimulation.
• Beds: Did you know that cats may sleep up to 20 hours every day? Buying or creating Fluffy a new bed is sure to elicit a purr.
• Furniture: Kitties benefit greatly from having items designed specifically for them. A cat tower is an excellent choice, but your feline may also prefer a kitty tunnel, window seat, or anything else she can look cute resting on.
• Conversation: Hugging and petting Fluffy are not the only ways you can make her feel appreciated. Just chat with her. Kitties certainly make excellent confidantes!
• Treats: Although our feline friends can be picky, most have a favorite snack. Just stick to healthier selections.
• Catnip: Unsurprisingly, Fluffy’s favorite plant is at the top of this list. Remember that not all kitties are prone to it. If your feline companion doesn’t appear to enjoy it, consider acquiring her honeysuckle cat toys. Honeysuckle appears to be popular among kitties who dislike catnip. Just make sure you stay with those designed particularly for cat toys.
• Boxes: Fortunately for us, our feline overlords are relatively easy to please. Simply give your pet an empty box and tell her to keep out of it.

Of course, keeping your adorable pet happy and healthy requires regular visits to our Marin County, CA pet clinic.

Cats Who Need Hugs

At the end of the day, we believe that all kitties deserve cuddles and affection. There are a lot of kitties in shelters right now, and all they want is for someone to take them home and love them. Given that June is Adopt A Shelter Cat Month, now is an excellent moment to help. That could include making donations, dropping off supplies, fostering, volunteering, or simply raising awareness. Of course, adopting a feline who needs affection would be the best way to commemorate this ‘pawspicious’ occasion.

Book An Appointment At Our Marin County, CA Animal Clinic

Has it been a while since your feline friend came in? Have you recently adopted a new kitten? Contact your pet Marin County, CA clinic today. We are always delighted to help!