Happy International Cat Day! Spoil Your Feline Friend the Right Way

Today, as the internet purrs with excitement, we celebrate the most majestic and mysterious members of our households: our beloved cats! It's #InternationalCatDay, a fantastic excuse to spoil our beloved feline friends even more than usual (if that's even possible 😉). But beyond the extra treats and crinkly new toys, what does 'spoiling' truly mean for a cat? It's about understanding and respecting their unique preferences for affection.

As any cat owner knows, felines are masters of individuality. Some are true 'lap cats,' content to spend hours purring and being stroked, their rhythmic rumble a soothing balm to our souls. Others, however, may prefer only the briefest of attention – a quick head rub as they pass by, or a shared moment of quiet companionship from a safe distance on the sofa. Forcing affection on a cat who isn't receptive can quickly turn a bonding moment into a stressful encounter, potentially damaging the trust you've worked so hard to build.

So, how do we ensure our affection is received as a gift, not an imposition? To help pet owners navigate the nuanced world of feline comfort levels, Battersea, the renowned animal welfare charity, advises using their incredibly handy and insightful ‘C.A.T’ approach: Choice, Attention, Touch. This simple acronym is your guide to building a stronger, more trusting bond with your cat, by interacting with them in a way that is truly comfortable for them.

Let's break down the C.A.T. approach:


C – Choice:

Always give your cat the option to engage or disengage. Offer a hand for them to sniff, and let them approach you. Never force interaction by holding them down or chasing them if they try to walk away.
Respect their decision to retreat or seek solitude. A cat that feels they have control over their interactions is a happier, more secure cat.


A – Attention:

Pay close attention to your cat's body language and signals. This is crucial for understanding whether they're enjoying the interaction or if they're feeling overwhelmed.
Signs of enjoyment include a relaxed posture, purring, slow blinks, kneading, or gently leaning into your touch.
Signs of discomfort might include a twitching or thumping tail, stiff body, flattened ears, dilated pupils, hissing, or trying to walk away. If you see these signs, it's time to stop and give them space.


T – Touch:

When your cat chooses to interact, be mindful of where and how you touch them. Most cats prefer being stroked around their scent glands – on their chin, cheeks, around their ears, and at the base of their tail.
Areas often disliked include their belly, paws, and tail, unless they specifically invite it (e.g., by rolling over and exposing their tummy).
Always use gentle, consistent strokes. Avoid sudden movements or rough handling. Think about what a mother cat does – gentle grooming and nudges.

Applying the C.A.T. approach isn't just about being a 'good' pet owner; it's about fostering a deep, respectful relationship based on trust. When you understand and honor your cat's boundaries, they feel safer, more secure, and paradoxically, more likely to seek out positive interactions with you. It translates to a happier, healthier cat and a more harmonious home.

So, as we celebrate International Cat Day, let's make it a day of true understanding. Take a moment to truly observe your cat today. Apply the C.A.T. approach, and you'll be giving them the greatest gift of all: respect, comfort, and a bond that purrs louder than ever.



Happy International Cat Day, from UK felines to felines around the world! 💙🐱