Cats are complex creatures, and their mood changes more frequently than one can imagine. One moment, they might be all friendly and enjoy petting, and the next moment, they might hiss at you for doing the same.
But why is that? As a cat owner, you must have wondered at one point why your cat has this love-and-hate relationship with petting.
This is not random behavior. There are several reasons behind this. Let’s explore these reasons together so that you can understand your feline friend better.
Cats and Their Complex Relationship with Petting
There are times when cats love to be petted. Other times, they might hate it. Why is that? Here are a few reasons.
1. The Evolutionary Link
Cats belong to the same family as lions and cheetahs. All these animals participate in mutual grooming, where they pet each other, which shows trust and affection.
Allogrooming in cats translates to humans in a similar manner. By licking their face and letting them rub their face, back, and belly, cats show their affection for humans. It is their way of telling them that they trust you and that you are one of them.
2. Sensory Pleasure
The closest thing to petting that we humans feel is massage. Just think about how relieved and relaxed you feel during a massage.
Petting is the same thing for cats. When a cat is petted, it stimulates its nerve endings and sensitive receptors. The ears and cheeks are filled with scent glands, and when you rub these areas, it stimulates those glands, and cats get more comfortable with you.
And cats often purr when you touch them for a longer period. This is a sign of contentment and a signal that they enjoy their time with you. This is also the reason why cats drool when you pet them.
3. Bonding with Humans
Unlike what many people believe, cats are capable of making strong attachments. It’s just that they aren’t as predisposed as dogs. Cats are very selective about whom they trust and allow near them, making their attention and affection a privilege.
Cats form similar attachments with their human caregivers as infants do. And since touch is the only love language cats are familiar with, petting reinforces that attachment and affection.
So know this: petting is not just a simple scratch but a sign of affection and belonging for your cat.
4. The Mood Factor
Now, we get into the real question. If your cat loves being petted so much, then why does it hiss sometimes when you do it?
Just like humans, cats, too, have boundaries and are sensitive to their surroundings and stress levels.
If your cat is feeling anxious or just isn’t in the mood, they might back off from the petting session, even if you are their favorite human. All you can do is understand your cat’s body language, when it feels grumpy, and when it needs affection.
Look for signs such as tail twitches, flattened ears, and sudden stillness, among others, and back off before your cat makes you.
5. Individual Preferences
The affinity to being petted varies across different breeds of cats. While some cats love being petted and played with, others hate it and prefer to be left alone.
For instance, Ragdolls and Maine Coons tend to be more receptive to cuddles, while some Bengals and Orientals might prefer interactive play over prolonged physical contact. Kittens handled frequently during their critical early development phase are likely to enjoy the human touch as adults.
So understand your cat’s nature and respect their individuality.
Final Thoughts
Cats might be mysterious, but they are not indifferent. Cats show love, trust, and connection in their own unique and interesting way. Every time they allow you to be near them, take it as a sign of trust and closeness.
So, the next time your cat jumps into your lap or headbutts your hand, do not ignore them. It is a sign of their affection, and the best thing is to reciprocate.
Play with and pet them to show that their trust and affection are not misplaced and reinforce your bond. But when they avoid human touch, respect their boundaries and give them the space they need.
Nin9 Tails – Strengthening Bonds Between Cats and Their Human Friends
Cats play a lot and can get dirty as well. This can affect your petting sessions as your cat might feel uncomfortable. Nin9 Tails is here to get rid of this problem. We offer premium cat grooming services in Dubai so that every cat owner can spend quality time with their cat without the fear of either of them getting sick.
Bring your cat to our pet salon today or call us, and our mobile grooming service will be at your door. Help us keep your pet active, clean, and playful.
