How to Win a Cat's Affection: Be Patient and Approach Slowly

Cats are known for being independent, aloof and not particularly affectionate. People may feel a brief sense of happiness as they hold and cuddle a cat, but it will soon wriggle out of their arms as if escaping. It is also quite common for a cat to scratch them with its claws before leaving. Why is that?

Dr. Rebecca Jackson, a veterinarian at Petplan Insurance, explained, "Some cats, such as Burmese, Ragdolls and LaPerms, also display affectionate behavior." These cats readily climb onto laps and enjoy wrapping themselves around their owners' necks or being hugged. Because these breeds form strong bonds with their owners, they are highly suitable as pets.

In an article for PetMD, Cheryl Lock wrote, "If you simply grab a cat and try to hold it, the cat will feel very uncomfortable." When a cat tenses up and tries to escape from your arms, take it as a sign that it does not want to be hugged. Cats prefer low, deep voices. If a cat purrs when you gently hold its body, it is reasonable to assume that it enjoys being hugged.

Do not sneak up on or startle a cat just because you want to hold it. Lock noted, "Disturbing a cat, especially while it is sleeping or eating, will only leave you scratched by its claws." To build a good relationship with a cat, you need to recognize when it wants to be hugged. Gripping or pulling a cat forcefully is bound to fail. If the cat seems uncomfortable, let it go immediately.

Another approach is to sit quietly near the cat and wait for it to come into your arms naturally. Cats want to express affection "in their own way at the right time." Holding a cat and praising it in a gentle voice can help it view hugs as a positive expression of affection. If the cat starts squirming while you are holding it, let it go. You can try hugging it again when it feels more comfortable.