Nigel Kidd - Pet That Cat!: A Handbook for Making Feline Friends

M y name is Nigel, and I love cats! I also love reading. The first book I ever learned to read was a picture book called Cat Traps, by Molly Coxe. My brother taught me to read it because he knew I loved cats. When I got older, I often read to my cats, Kenny and Fred. Theyd snuggle on my bed, and we would go on adventures together. Writing this book brings together two of my favorite things!

What I love about cats is that they are all so different: Cats can be cuddly, aloof, feisty, or playful. They can have long hair or short hair, or stripes or swirls in their fur. Some have no fur at all! And every cat has their own unique personality. Learning about cats can help you become a better friend to them.

Getting to know a new cat is like reading a new book. Each has a different story. I hope this book helps you learn more about cats and encourages you to get to know them. Most of all, I hope you make some new feline friends!

Just like any other pet, it is important to ask the caregiver before you pet a cat. Caregivers know their cats better than anyone else. Some cats may be afraid of new people or may not like being petted. A caregiver can tell you if their cat likes to meet new people and give you tips on how to approach their cat.

If the caregiver says no, thats okay! A good friend always respects boundaries. Saying thank-you and walking away shows that you respect the caregiver and their cat.

Now that the caregiver has said yes, it is time to ask the cat. Research shows that cats have better and longer interactions with people who let cats initiate contact. Rushing up to pet a cat may just make her run and hide. If you sit quietly and wait for the cat to approach you first, she will be less scared. Youre also more likely to make a new friend!

When you and your feline friend-to-be are ready, its time to introduce yourself! First make your body smaller by getting down to the cats level, and slowly put your hand out. Give the cat a chance to approach and smell you on his own. If he doesnt, you can slowly reach forward and let him smell your hand. After a few seconds, try gently stroking him on the cheek.

Its important to watch how the cat responds before touching him again. If he comes closer, or rubs against you, he is saying you can pet him. If he backs away, hisses, flattens his ears, or tries to swat at you, its best to stand up and walk away.

Cats like to have their fur petted in the direction it grows. That means petting from the head toward the tail. If you pet a cat from their tail to their head, this rubs the fur in the wrong direction. Most cats dislike this feeling.

Respecting how a cat wants to be petted is important. If you take their feelings into account, a cat is more likely to become your friend.

Cats will often tell you when they have had enough petting. They may walk away, thump their tail, or even gently nip your hand. If this happens, its okay. When a cat does this, they are saying they no longer want to be touched. Respect their wishes and let them be. Part of becoming better friends with a cat is showing that you know when to leave them alone!

Tips from Nigel

Knowing when to stop petting a cat is just as important as getting the cats permission to pet him. Pay attention to what a cat is telling you with their body language (see for more).

Where to Pet a Cat (and Where Not To!)

When you first meet a cat, the first place you should pet is behind the ears or on the cheek. Most cats like to be petted in these places. If the cat responds happily, you can move to petting the top of their head or the middle of their back.