If you have a cat who doesn’t like to be picked up or held, try these tips.
- Position yourself next to or slightly behind your cat.
- Place your outer arm underneath the cat’s chest (and belly), and your other hand in front of the cat’s chest to control the front legs.
- Pick up your cat so that he is parallel to the ground. Keep him facing away from you and in the direction you’re taking him.
- Start with short distances, such as picking up your cat to put him on the sofa, coffee table, window perch, or tabletop.
- Place your cat down gently. Be sure all four paws are on the ground before letting go. Do not let your cat jump from your arms or drop him—even by a few inches.
- Pair placing your cat down with food or treats. By gently picking up and ‘teleporting’ your cat this way, you can help him acclimate to being picked up, prevent injury, and create a positive association with your touch.
You may want to begin by simply ‘scootching’ your cat toward the food bowl. When you set food down, place one hand on each side of his waist or lumbar region and scootch or lift him forward slightly. Eventually, pick him up and place him down in front of the bowl. At first, you might only lift him half an inch. Then begin lifting and carrying him further distances. Always pair picking up and placing your cat down with something good.
(upper right) © ASPCA
To learn more gentle cat handling techniques, read The Good Cat Parent’s Guide to Feline Behavior Modification or see the Cat Behavior & Training Tutorials.
© 2016 Alana Stevenson, All Rights Reserved.
