Handling And Holding Your Cat

If you watch a mother cat, you will see how she picks up a tiny kitten by taking hold of the loose skin at the back of the neck and gently lifting. The kitten then demonstrates one of its inborn reflexes, which is to curl up into an apparently lifeless ball.

It will not move until its mother puts it down. This loose skin, which becomes far less apparent as the kitten grows, is the scruff or nape.

The action of picking up a cat in such a way is called scruffing. While it is possible to lift your cat in this way, scruffing should normally only be considered if absolutely necessary, if instant control is required, for example, when the cat is at the veterinary surgery.

For less flexible adult cats especially, it can be an unnerving experience, particularly as they freeze when scruffed.

It is far better to pick up your kitten or cat by placing one hand under the chest, supporting the backside with the other hand and then lifting. In this way the animal feels completely secure, with no limbs left dangling.

This total support technique is essential if you are holding the cat for any length of time. As you can your cat become more confident, you can try different holds.

Avoid tucking the cat under your arm with its body, back legs and tail dangling like a rag doll. This leaves most of its weight unsupported and puts a great strain on the internal organs.

Many cats do not like being held for too long, and should be gently let down if they start to wriggle. An established resident cat has become accustomed to a new arrival, and the two now provide extra warmth for each other.

Avoid surprising the cat when you are about to lift it. When it is relaxed, support the top of the hind legs with one hand and the chest with the other. When holding or carrying a cat, keep the back end and legs supported.

If the cat starts to wriggle, let it down gently, never force it to be held against its will, unless it is necessary.