Common Mistakes People Make When They Handle Cats
Bearing in mind that cats differ, and there are some cats who enjoy the below actions with someone they trust, in general one should avoid the following unless one knows that cat is okay with it:
1)Petting it like a dog
Ruffling fur, rubbing it roughly is a no no.
2)Mock fighting
Cats like to wrestle with hands or feet, or play "swat the human paw" with someone they trust, but coming at the cat to grab its head or poke its belly in a mock-aggressive manner can make the cat very anxious. They are prey animals as well as predators, and can have an instinctive defense response to someone coming at them like that.
3)Squeezing it
They are actually rather fragile animals. Don't squeeze hard!
4)Picking it up
Some cats don't like having their feet off the ground because it makes them feel out of control and anxious. If you try to pick up a cat and he doesn't like it, take that off your "do with cat" list. (If you do pick him up. support his feet and it may go better)
5)Turning it over
Most cats do not like being turned belly up in your arms, baby style, as it makes them feel vulnerable. Also on the list of things you can try once to see how it responds.
6)Pinning it down
Coming from above and wrapping your arms around it so it is hugged in place. Again, something you can test once.
Cats are prey animals as well as predators, and may respond instinctively to anything that looks like an attack. However, their responses may be different for people they know and trust. So you should never do any of the above with a cat you don't know, but a cat who is comfortable with you may allow, and even enjoy, some of these actions. (Though squeezing hard is always bad).
What you should do instead:
Always be kind to the cat
Speak softly to her, gently stroke her head and run your hand down her back. If she's new to you, give her time to know and trust you. Be patient. She may run from you at times. Remember, she's only between 9 to 16 pounds, while you're between 100 and --- pounds. To her, you're a giant. Your size may intimidate her.
Spice up playtime
To make her less uneasy, get some toys and play with her. Cats love to chase things, so the fuzzy rat on a string is a good choice. Also, they love to chase the butterflies on a string. You could try the laser light. Shine it on the wall and watch her chase it. A ball she can bat around and chase. Cats are funny when they play. They are also very curious and will explore your home -- every inch of it. Put away breakables. Follow her and watch where she goes.
Take good care of them daily
Keep her happy by feeding her well and keeping her litter box clean every day. She may want to sleep with you and cuddle. This will be a sign of true bonding. Your cat is your best friend and you'll want her around for a long time. Keep her indoors and safe. Talk to her often, pet her when she wants petting. Enjoy her (or him) and be thankful you have each other! :)