Cats and kids can develop wonderful relationships – and it starts with trust.
Here some tips to begin the process.
Follow feline etiquette. When two familiar cats greet each other they engage in nose-to-nose sniffing. It’s after this that they decide whether to come closer or back away. Have your child extend his index finger in front of the cat. Don’t stick the finger in the cat’s face or wiggle it, or try to entice the cat into play. Show your child how to merely extend his finger as if it’s another cat’s nose. This will give the cat an opportunity to do some initial sniffing. If she wants to engage your child, she’ll rub against his finger or move closer. If she doesn’t want more interaction, she’ll stay still or move away. Explain to your child that cats use scent as a way to gather information and communicate. Cats use scent as a valuable form of recognition so being able to sniff your child’s finger is as close to how to feline friends would approach each other.
Pet with an open hand. The wrong petting technique can ruin a budding relationship. Show your child how to gently pet with an open hand and to stroke in the direction the hair grows. Some cats have sensitive areas or strong preferences when it comes to where they’re touched. Instruct your child on the areas to stay away from. If you have more than one cat, each kitty may have very different preferences and it’s important to teach your child what each cat prefers. In general, many young children pet by patting the cat and most cats don’t enjoy that kind of touch. The overall preferred method is to use smooth strokes. The most common place that cats enjoy being petted is on the back of the head. Some cats like long strokes down the back but for other cats that is either too stimulating or too sensitive. Know what your cat likes so you can instruct your child correctly.
Create special games. Cats love to play. Help your child pick out a cat toy – preferably a fishing pole-type toy – and show him how to conduct a play session with kitty. Teach your child not to poke the cat or point the toy in her face, as well as not frustrating kitty by keeping the toy out of reach. Place open paper bags on their sides and have your child try to get the toy in each bag. Both he and the cat will have fun as the toy darts about.
Model the behaviour you want in your child. Your child is learning from watching how you care for and interact with the family pets. On a daily basis, demonstrate that kitty needs proper healthcare, good nutrition, love, fun, and kindness.
Note: this article is not intended to diagnose or treat your cat’s behaviour problem. If your cat is displaying a change in behavior, please contact your veterinarian in order to rule out possible medical causes.
