Is it OK to rub a cat's belly?

According to Animal Path, “Whether you have just brought home a kitten or your cat has lived with you for years, it is possible for you to train him to like, or at least tolerate belly rubs. Training your cat to allow you to touch his body, including his paws and belly, can be beneficial for both of you.
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What does it mean if your cat lets you rub their belly?

If your cat loves it when you rub her belly, take it as a compliment. It means that your cat wants attention and trusts you enough to touch her belly. Remember your cat's belly is the most vulnerable spot on her body. If she allows you to pet her in this area, then she trusts you completely.
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Why shouldn't you rub a cat's belly?

Hair follicles on the belly and tail area are hypersensitive to touch, so petting there can be overstimulating, Provoost says. “Cats prefer to be pet and scratched on the head, specifically under their chin and cheeks,” where they have scent glands, Provoost says. (Read how cats know their names.)
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Where should you not rub a cat?

Cats typically don't like being petted on their tummy, legs/feet, or tail. Of course, there are always outliers—some cats will love every bit of affection, no matter where they're touched or who's doing it. But generally, you shouldn't pet a cat you don't know on their stomach or extremities.
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Where do cats like to be petted the most?

So, in which places do cats like to be petted? The head, chin and neck are often their favorites. While some cats enjoy having their tails touched, others will recoil and even experience pain from a tail stroke.
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How to pet your cat's belly like a pro



Why do cats purr and then bite you?

Some kitty lovers call this a 'love bite', others call it petting aggression. It's a controversial subject but it's believed that if your cat suddenly bites you for no apparent reason, it could be because they are being overstimulated by the constant stroking - which you thought they were enjoying!
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Why don't cats let you touch their paws?

You've probably already noticed that when you pet your cat's paws, they try to avoid your touch, flee, or bite you. But why? A cat's paws are covered with sensory receptors which make them very sensitive. These sensory receptors are essential for cats as they allow them to know which type of ground they're walking on.
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How do I know my cat loves me?

9 signs your cat loves you
  • Your kitty purrs around you. ...
  • They sit on you. ...
  • You've seen the 'slow blink' ...
  • You have a sleeping buddy. ...
  • They bring you gifts. ...
  • Head bumping happens. ...
  • You're being followed. ...
  • You've seen your cat's belly, a lot.
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When should you not touch your cat?

Don't pet the kitty if it's not in the mood for snuggling or if its attention is preoccupied with something else. Fidgeting, hissing, bristling and dodging your hands are typical signs that the cat doesn't want you to pet it.
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How to discipline a cat?

Toys that can be chased, swatted, and batted should be provided. Species appropriate punishment such as “hissing” or the use of punishment devices such as a water sprayer, can of compressed air, or hand held alarm are better than using any physical techniques since they are less likely to lead to fear and retaliation.
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Do cats like being picked up?

Being picked up and held can make some cats nervous, as they are being restrained in your arms. This limits their options for escape if anything were to startle them. Cats are independent creatures, and although they often like to be up high, they like to choose their own perch and not be restrained whilst doing so.
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Do cats like kisses?

It depends on the cat.

Some cats are socialized as kittens to be held and kissed, while others haven't had that exposure and might be put off by a kiss as an expression of love. So, some cats like it and some cats don't—but there are ways of detecting the category into which your feline friend falls.
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Do cats like when you touch their belly?

Why Do Some Cats Like Belly Rubs? Of course your purring companion may have no better reason for liking belly rubs than the simple fact that it feels good. All cats have those particular spots that get them to purr like lions — the base of the tail, under the chin and for some, the undercarriage area.
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What not to do with cats?

8 Things You Should Never Do to Your Cat
  • Skip Flea Treatment. ...
  • Put Your Cat Outdoors Unsupervised. ...
  • Leave Windows Open. ...
  • Put Off Vet Visits. ...
  • Hold Your Cat On Your Lap While Driving. ...
  • Toss Your Cat Off the Counter. ...
  • Forget to Brush Your Cat's Teeth. ...
  • Ignore Those Hairballs.
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Where is a cat's sweet spot?

The “sweet spot” is usually at the end of the back... yes, what is basically the top of the cat's butt! Be sure to stop before you hit the tail - the tail is often off-limits! Base of the Ears: Cats have a lot of scent glands concentrated here, which means it's a good spot for petting.
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Do cats fall in love with you?

It's a question that many cat owners have wondered. And the answer is a resounding yes! Cats often feel love quite strongly for their owners and other companions.
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How do cats show sadness?

Cats alter their behavior when they mourn much like people do: They may become depressed and listless. They may have a decreased appetite and decline to play. They may sleep more than usual and move more slowly, sulking around.
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Where your cat sleeps on your bed and what it means?

If your cat sleeps on your bed, he may choose a position that lets him see out your bedroom door more easily. If he's curled up in a ball under your bed or in a quiet corner, then he may be hiding. Cats who sleep under the covers might love being close to you, or they might be hiding to feel safer.
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Do cats get sad when you leave?

Regardless of their reputation, cats do get lonely when they are left unattended for long periods of time. Research proves that cats are social beings that form strong bonds with their owners. Do cats get sad when you leave? Short answer: yes.
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Do cats like their ears touched?

The ears - Some cats like their ears scratched, rubbed, or gently twisted. A few even go for having a knuckle rubbed against their ears' exteriors. If your cat appears to have very itchy ears, ask the vet to take a look at them. Itchiness could signal mites or allergies.
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Why do cats spread their toes when you touch?

One thing cat owners may not realize is that cats actually have poor close-up vision. Because of this, they may stretch their paw out to touch you because they can't see as well when you're cuddling together. The act of reaching their paw out to you makes them feel more secure that you're "there" and with them.
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Do cats prefer female owners?

According to a new study, cats experience the greatest fondness for female owners. Cats attach to your veterinary clients—your female clients in particular—as social partners and it's not just because they want to be fed, according to research in the journal Behavioral Processes.
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What does it mean when my cat puts her paw on my face?

Your cat puts her paws on you to transfer scent

Depositing scent on an object or person is not really about marking territory, claiming possession, or dominating, as some people think. To the cat, it's about making his world smell like him – a smell that is familiar, comforting, and safe.
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Why does my cat grab my hand and bite me?

The most common reason that cats bite their owners isn't that they have an aggressive cat, it's because they are trying to play! While sharp teeth or claws may not feel very “playful” to you, hunting behavior equals play behavior for your kitty. This means stalking, pouncing, biting, and kicking.
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Why do cats stretch in front of you?

When cats stretch, they're saying they feel comfortable and relaxed. If a cat stretches in front of you, it means you make him feel content! Have you ever heard of a “catnap”? It's what we call a short nap.
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