How to greet a cat
The tip of your finger is almost hypnotic to
a cat
MetPet.com Staff Writer
 If you've ever watched two friendly
or well-acquainted cats greet each other, you'll notice
that they first go nose-to-nose. This type of greeting between
acquaintances can also be used between humans and cats to set a friendly
tone to the meeting.
Since
people are so much taller than cats, it's difficult to sink down to their
level and touch noses. Besides, human faces are so large that even the
friendliest cat may draw back in alarm.
Try substituting the tip of your index finger for your nose. Point your
finger and slowly direct it towards the cat's face and let him sniff it.
Chances are good that the cat, even a stranger, will come closer or rise up
on its haunches for a smell. That would, after all, be the polite thing to
do and it appears to be a normal reaction.
We find it puts cats at ease and helps to avoid the
hissing, growling and tail swishing that are clear signs to keep your
distance. If the cat hisses, growls, swishes its tail quickly or
violently back and forth, bristles its tail or arches its back (unless it's
just stretching after a nap) then it's a good idea to back off and try again
later.
We've heard this also works with
chickens and lobsters but we haven't tried it out yet.
Related Information:
Tail Signals in Cats
How To Cuddle Your Cat
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