If you want to learn the best strategies on how to get a cat to like you, it’s important to understand the basics of feline psychology. Cats are territorial animals, meaning that they are mostly deterred by things that are new to them. This means that just barging into your cat’s space without knowing some important tips, tricks and secrets is a bad idea. Although it might seem like cats don’t mind strangers at all, these animals actually have their own way of showing when they are being stressed out or when they are afraid.
My cat, for example, always hisses and growls when she’s uncomfortable. It’s her way of trying to tell me that she doesn’t want me to come any closer. And if I ignore her warning and keep advancing, she’ll eventually scratch or bite me. So, to make a good impression on your new feline friend, it’s important first to learn how to read your cat’s cues and signals.
Once you know how to interpret your cat’s communication, the next step is to follow some simple guidelines on getting a cat to like you. The following are some of the best tips that have worked for me over the years.
1. Cats like to be stroked or petted on the head or around their ears.
One way to get your cats to like you is by petting them on their head or around their ears. They also love to be stroked from the back of their head down along their spine. This area is a pleasure zone for them, and they will often stretch out to expose it fully.
For more details on the correct way to pet your cat, or to find out if there is even a correct way, see our article here.
2. Allow the cat to take the initiative.
Another way to get your cat to like you is by allowing the cat to take the initiative. In other words, don’t try to corner them or grab them when they’re not in the mood – let them come to you when they’re ready. And be patient because it may take a while for some cats to warm up to you.
As shown by research conducted in 51 Swiss homes with cats, when humans sit back and wait- and focus on something else, such as a good book- a cat is more likely to approach, and less likely to withdraw when you respond.
3. Offer them food or treats.
One of the best ways to get your cat to like you is by offering them food or treats. Cats love to eat, and if they associate you with good things happening, they’ll be more likely to come around eventually. Some people even go as far as to train their cats using positive reinforcement, which can work quite well.
4. Give them a place to hide.
All cats need a place to hide, and if you can provide that for them, they’ll be more likely to feel comfortable around you. This could be anything from a cardboard box to a nice, soft bed where they can curl up and take a nap.
5. It’s not acceptable to stare at the cat for long.
It’s also important to remember that staring at cats is impolite. A direct stare in the animal kingdom might be considered a threat. Avoid staring and, if you must look at the cat, make your glances modest and short instead. They’ll get used to you over time, but try to be respectful of their space until then.
6. Approach a cat in the manner they greet each other.
Cats greet each other by sniffing one another’s face or the nose, so when you approach them, make sure to do the same. You may establish a connection by giving a non-threatening fingertip at nose level, a few inches away. Don’t hover; instead, bend down and gently extend your hand. Many cats will approach your finger and sniff it, perhaps rubbing against it. That’s a good start to a meeting.
I started to use this strategy with my cat before I knew it was a ‘thing.’ When I want to give him a greeting, I bend down and reach in slowly to tap his nose. He picks up on this cue right away, lifting his nose up instantly to reach my finger. In a split second, ‘Tap!’ we make that connection.
Often, this is enough for my cat. He is a ‘cool cat,’ and sometimes he doesn’t need extra attention. Occasionally, he will slide my finger onto his head, indicating that he wouldn’t mind a few pats on the head. Other times, he will rub the sides of this. cheeks against my finger after the tap, showing me that he wouldn’t mind a few strokes on his cheek.
7. Give the cat space if you get negative feedback.
If you get negative feedback from the cat – for example, if they hiss or swat at you, it’s best to give them some space. Back off and let them calm down before trying again. It may take a while, but eventually, they’ll come around if you’re consistent and gentle in your approach.
8. Keep your cat indoors.
Keeping your cat indoors is one of the best ways to ensure they stay safe and healthy. It also gives you more opportunities to interact with them, which will help them get to know and trust you. With some patience and time, you’ll be able to win your cat’s affection in no time.
9. Never aggressively scold or hit a cat.
This is probably the worst thing you can do if you want a cat to like you. Cats don’t respond well to aggression, and it will only make them more fearful or stressed around you. Instead, use positive reinforcement when training your cat – for example, treats or toys when they behave in the way you want them to.
10. Be a consistent and firm leader.
Start the training early by establishing yourself as a leader from day one, and it will be much easier to get your cat to follow your lead over time. For example, if the cat jumps up on furniture or tries to get on your lap, firmly (but gently) push them off and tell them to get down. This will show the cat that you’re not a pushover – and you’ll be able to spend more time together without any problems.
Conclusion
To get a cat to like you entirely depends on how you treat the cat. If you treat your cat the same way you treat a dog, you may not get the desired love from them. Study your cat and find the suitable method of approach as different cats react differently to various approach methods. Above all, be gentle and kind to your new feline friend, as cats love attention but also enjoy their own independence.
Written by Mercy Mamman Miazanko
https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/549585/science-backed-tips-for-getting-a-cat-to-like-you
https://europepmc.org/article/med/2047832
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2752/089279391787057062
Thank you for these sugestions. I had never had a cat before. I knew they liked to be stroked. but i didn’t know about many of the other points you mentioned. Not staring at our cat for long was an i nteresting rule. I have been guilty of breaking it. I will be careful from here on.
Hi Paolo, thank you for your response! Yes, apparently staring at your cat means you want to fight your cat! I used to wonder why my cat would look away if I stared at him too long, now I know why.
