While some cats and particular breeds may be friendlier than others, there are some simple steps you can take to help your cat feel comfortable and allow their lovable, friendly personalities to flourish. If you have a kitten it’s best to get a start on this early so that way you can have a social, well-mannered kitty that brings joy to everyone. Here are our tips on how to raise a friendly cat:
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1. It all begins with gentle handling
Cats can become scared if you don’t handle them with care, and this is especially true for kittens and younger cats. It’s important to show them TLC and practice being extra gentle with them while handling. If you prove to your cat that we humans are trustworthy and kind they are likely to be much more responsive and crave your attention in return.
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2. Teach them to come when you call them
These clever animals should have no problem recognizing their names after a bit of repetition. Practice calling them by name and once they start coming you can reward them with a treat. Cats that come on command aren’t shy and enjoy being around people. If you teach them to come when you call them then they can learn to do this for others, too.
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3. Introduce your kitten/cat to feline-friendly dogs
The younger that your cat is when you introduce them to a cat-friendly dog the better it is for them to learn that some dogs can be nice. Most cats are naturally afraid of dogs, and some even more so due to bad experiences. If you have a dog in your home this will be easier, but if not try socializing your kitten/cat around a dog that doesn’t mind kitties.
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4. Keep kitty close to you
In the first few months, especially during kittenhood, it’s important to maintain a healthy presence for your kitten and not to be away from the home too much. Cats are rather independent and can be aloof by nature, but it’s necessary for their social development to be interactive with them and to shower them with lots of attention. Go ahead and invite people over to awe over your new precious kitten and let them show them some attention, too. This way when they are older they won’t be bothered by attention since it’s something that they’ve always known.
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5. Be affectionate with your cat
By no means are you expected to lock lips with a cat, but by practicing a “cuddle and scoop” method with them this could do wonders. When it’s affection time carefully pick them up and pull them in close to you, stroking their fur and treating them like you would a baby. Showing your cat that human interaction is perfectly safe will help for them to develop trust and will also work to create a strong bond between you and your cat. Chances are their kitty motor will get to working too with this simple routine.