Each cat has its own personality and that is the most interesting thing about these animals. Some cats just want to get away from the world, not being fans of petting and cuddles, while others could spend all day in our arms. Many times their disdain is due to their particular nature. However, other times there are some obstacles that stand in the way of your affection for your pet.
It is important to know these possibilities to avoid labeling the feline as an unfriendly or evasive cat. Next, on our site we will explain why your cat does not like to be petted, thus knowing the reasons for the physical distance from your beloved pet. Maybe he's just a creature of reserved tastes.
Cat socialization
We must understand that upbringing, education and socialization are going to be fundamental pillars of a large part of the personality of cats. Animals raised in a loving home where they have been petted constantly since their earliest youth will be much more receptive to human contact
In the same way, if they have lived with other felines since they were little, they will probably be more sociable cats with other cats. If they have had good socialization and have been accustomed to receiving affection, they will stop being caressed and will like to be caressed.
However, cats that live in abusive environments, on the street or that have suffered some trauma (due to abuse, abandonment or illness), will be much more apprehensive and will be more cautious before any type of caress. If your fellow humans have never hugged you before, you probably won't be too excited about them now.
If you don't know your feline's past history, you can always try to socialize an adult cat, however it is a long and complicated process, that it is worth working with a cat educator, a specialist in feline ethology.
Aggressiveness and negative behaviors
We must be very attentive to this point because we may have a cat with a tendency to aggressiveness, a feline that does not like to be petted or simply a cat that does not know how to play calmly and harmlessly.
Some cats are disgusted by constant human affection and ask to be given their space, others dislike being petted constantly at certain points of the body, rather, at the same point:
Studies confirm that continuously stroking an area can be counterproductive, causing more unpleasant sensations than pleasant ones. The solution: don't stay stuck in the same spot and caress your pet's entire body. If your cat twitches its ears or scratches your hand while you pet it in a particular spot, that's your signal to stop and move on to another area.
The best way to achieve physical closeness with a cat is not to insist or force that the interaction happens, but to encourage him to want the contact. Even if your intentions are correct, avoid cornering or petting him against his will.
Start with the basics: say hello, sit at his level, hold out your hand and let him come closer. Pick a time when he is relaxed and gradually gain his trust. When he approaches you and asks for caresses, surprise him with a treat or a kind word, your cat will associate the closeness with a positive moment. At the first sign that he doesn't want to, let him go. Freedom will generate security and comfort towards you.
Fears and traumas
On our site we insist that cats are very sensitive and sensitive animals that also suffer from fear. They suffer in situations that generate fear, such as fireworks, storms, loud sounds, artifacts, strange or unknown people and many other situations. We talk about apprehension. The brain needs to be attentive and active and caresses represent a distraction and a moment of relaxation. Many times the very act of caressing them represents a scare and makes them anxious in moments of tension.
The best thing to do in this case is to be patient with your cat and the situation, not encourage contact if they don't want it and let them be themselves. Stay present but do not caress him or hold him in your arms, unless he is the one who asks you to, let him adjust little by little. He will know that you are agreeing to his terms, this will surely have more and better effect in the future
Pain and illnesses
It may happen that your cat is in pain and that he does not enjoy being caressed very much because he is physically very sensitive. Even soothing pats or gentle pressure can be painful. If your cat has always been very affectionate, and suddenly has a change of character, it may be that something is hurting him, that he has some wound or internal discomfort. If the change is drastic, it is best to take it to the vet for a general check-up.
