Love dr.Vuitton she is so cool🤓 One of my cats (the less cuddly one) bond with listening to us reading, and loves eating from our hands. She loves to be in the same room, somewhat close, but not in the lap. The other one loves to lay on our tummies and cuddle, but would never eat from our hands😅 both bond with us thru play really well, so playtime is a staple every day. As far as bonding with eachother- weeell..not there yet😆💓we had the younger cat for almost 3 years and then adopted a supersweet 8year old recently from the shelter. So now we are working on bonding all together😍
Can you please tell us why cats try to bite and how to stop that I play with my cat a lot but she always try to bite even if I was sleeping or doing other things
At night when we go to bed my cat wants me to hold his paw with one hand while I put the other one over his tummy. And of course, he has to be snuggled like a baby while this is going on. But I hadn't realized they bond to a place and now how I got him makes more sense. When he was 8 weeks old his Mama got mad at her owner's (our neighbors) and moved all the kittens under our house. We helped return them home but he kept coming back every 3-4 days for about two weeks before we decided to keep him. I hope that won't stay a problem because we are moving next week. He is a completely inside cat and has been neutered.
Cat: "It's a common misconception that humans can't be trained. With patience, most humans can be trained to provide food and open doors when you meow."
So I’ve had cats my whole life; and loved each then so much individually. However, my boy I have now, he’s turning 8 this year, I’ve never had a bond like this before. He was a kitten my mom rescued off the streets, and he just instantly took to me. He’s been with me though the last of high school, my first apartment, all my moves. Bad days and good days. Always waiting at the door for me when I get home from work, and curled up by my side when I wake up. I can even smush my face into his belly and he’ll just purr away. He’ll try licking me, but my hair just gets stuck 😂 he loves treats and playing with this candy cane toy he’s had since he was a kitten, that’s tied to a string. He’s so unbelievably sweet, and truly my best friend. It breaks my heart when I hear people call cats aloof, and low maintenance. I wish everyone could experience the love and bond of a cat!
Sounds like he’s soo lucky to have you and you him I’ve had dogs all my life liked a cat to look at but never wanted one but I used to look after sons cat when they went away She was beautiful I found her to be so calming She passed away and it hit me I stared to dream cats left right and centre one day I said I’d love a cat everyone said no you have two dogs that won’t work but I just knew it was meant to be He brought a cat home for me I named him Pickles he gets on fab with Maggie and Rosie I now have a kitten called Honey best thing I’ve ever done laugh every day now 😊
Hearing about your boy kitten is really heartwarming! So reminds me of my precious little guy Mokie, who was so charming, affectionate and funny, silly, a true member of our family. He really seemed human in his ways sometimes, loved to make us laugh! I do believe they chose us and I'm hoping to find another sweet friend, or rather be found by, to love and cherish through the next years. Enjoy your little one, best wishes! 👌
I also thought cats were aloof...Not my Buddy....1st thing in morning we have to do our loving and cuddling and sometimes thru out the day...I never would have believed it....He follows me everywhere outside....love my Buddy!!!
My wife and I inadvertently adopted a really sweet cat about seven months ago. He almost instantly attached himself to my wife...he greats her when she gets home, sleeps with her, etc. However....the kitty is my buddy when my wife is at work (I'm retired), he always comes over to wherever I am, I play with him using a "fishing pole" toy, give him treats, etc. He DOES enjoy pets and scratches on his back...in fact, as you pet/scratch him, he licks you!! 😂 I always was a dog person but, I guess I'm a cat person now, lol!! I really enjoy your channel!! Thank you!!
Oh my goodness Paul, yes!! My husband said he didn’t even like cats cuz he thought they were mean. Lol but he plays with our Mitsy every morning after his night shift. I wake up to him laughing out loud. I think our teacher here has a good classroom growing. When my cat sees me sit up first thing in the morning and also after our midday nap together, she licks me like a dog. I kinda just love it. It’s as if she’s saying “good morning mom, you feeling ok? Here pet me I’ll ease your the physical pain by distracting you with lovins.” Once I gather the strength I feed her then it’s play time with the strings and ponytails. I think she enjoys the ponytails so much because they retract very fast when she bends them. It’s hilarious. I really feel like she is my saving grace when I’m home alone or when my daughter is asleep. She has gotten me through the worst of times with my chronic pain since the moment I found her and applied for her adoption. Even helped get through the mental load and realization of being 30 and told if I keep working I’ll end up paralyzed from the waste down. Gosh I wonder if I need to do specific things to make her a service cat? Or whatever the term for mental calming helper is🤷🏻♀️. If that’s even possible anyway. I agree I’m enjoying the channel too!
@@aliciam_g16 I can feel you. I had a twelve year old white cat.! It was very unknown to the real world.at the time. She suddenly passed away from an illness. Jess can hear this guy's silent at times when she waits for him inside the family's backyard home into the late afternoon hours.. It was a platonic relationship at it's best with the cat.
@@aliciam_g16 In the US there are 1) service animals and 2) emotional support animals. Last I checked, there are only 2 species that qualify for use as a Service Animal: dogs and mini horses. For dogs there is also specificity for certain breeds and the animals undergo intensive training to assist with specific medical issues. However, virtually any animal can be classified as an Emotional Support Animal. I think I read about someone's Emotional Support iguana. You can buy little vests and jackets that say something like "support animal" but it doesn't entitle you to privileges afforded to !n actual Service Animal, so it's really not necessary. I do know that in some cases claiming an Emotional Support Animal can help with rental situations. If a letter from a psychiatric or medical doctor stating that your cat is an emotional support animal is obtained, it can help to have pet deposit waived or allow someone to have a cat in an otherwise pet-free place. So it can be handy there.
My teen daughters seem so offended that all 3 of our cats love me best, but if they would play with, brush and give treats to the cats, then they would be just as stalked by them as me 🤣
My little sister is also like this but that because she won’t even bother to play or feed him and stopped participate in scoop his litter like she promised.
When I was a kid my uncle lived with us his room down the basement.His pets loved him like a God and I was so jealous. I did everything for these animals but could not compete. I do believe what you're saying tho. We love the ones that take care of us and give attention.
@@kristinmary4025 The cats most likely were bonded with him. I’m sure they liked and appreciated you though. I had a cat that I’d raised from a kitten. He almost died from pneumonia at 6 mos old and I nursed him back. We had a very strong bond. I’m still grieving his passing and it was 4 years ago. He was very sick and hung on for me. I had to give him permission to let go. He was 14 y/o. He was very sociable and was very loving to other people that treated him well. When I traveled for work my best friend would keep him for a few days. One time I came back and went to get him she said that he didn’t want to come home and he was very happy there with her so I should just leave him. She challenged me and said that if I left he wouldn’t budge. He said hello to me when I walked in then went and laid under the table. I sat down and chatted for a bit with my friend. She said see he wants to stay he’s so comfortable. Lol 😆 I just laughed, stood up and said let’s go home Lucas and he jumped up so fast to get in his carrier she was shocked 😯 and had nothing to say except wow! I said Lucas loves his mommy. He loves you and appreciates you but he knows where his home is and who he wants to be with. He was just very laid back and got comfortable no matter where he was especially if it was a safe and loving space. Hopefully you have a cat or will adopt one one day. Kittens are great but need more training. Adopting one about 1-3 years old is good because they’re over the rambunctious phase and will listen and learn quickly. ♥️
@May Bee I’m having to explain this to my almost 6 yr old daughter as well. She gets so sad when she’s petting our cat and as soon as Mitsy sees me she leaves my daughter in the dust. Poor thing doesn’t understand.. when our kids and our fur babies see mom, they actually see food. Lol so I get it
@@jaeshasway My husband and I adopted an 8 year old cat last June and she is just wonderful. If we ever adopt again in the future it'll be another senior. 😻😻
I had just be given a kitten a little more than a week ago. Since I'm on a fixed budget I could only buy cat food and litter for her box. I can buy toys this Friday; but meanwhile I've taken the shoelace from one of my old sneakers and rolled up a piece of tinfoil to let her play. Bonding with her is easy . Sometimes she'll sit next to me and likes to be petted. Recently she's started sitting on my lap for about a minute. Nala makes the decisions on what she wants to do.
I bought my fur bean an $8 toy with an electronic squeaker ...he has minus-zero interest. Dropped a twist tie on the floor- cat went bananas. He also love chasing a dried out aponge- cut in half, and almost any other lightweight flotsam that ends up on the floor. Another fun way to stimulate play (that my guy loves) is to put a treat or dry piece of food in an empty toilet paper or paper towel roll... or a paper bag (which is also hilarious to watch.) Don't do this with plastic, obviously. You can also make your own string toy- i recommend a smooth nylon string though cos something rough like hemp or twine can twist around them and get them caught by the tail or something cos it doesn't slide off of them easily. When you do have little extra $ to splurge on your cat, i would recommend a cardboard scratcher > any sort of prefab toy. Another wasted expense i made was on a cat bed. The cat is about three years old and probably had never had a cat bed and i though it would be nice, but he hasn't even added it to the rotation, and it's been weeks
Him will lap sit and be pet everywhere all day... She is not the same. She absolutely melts when I talk to her. While she doesn't really understand the words, she knows I'm vocalizing love and she will roll on her back in pure happy cat
I bond with my girls by cackling with them at the birds and squirrels outside out window. We get excited about the really fast or BIG birds and we all look at each other like "Did you see THAT one?????!!!" I also have a toy closet with a wide variety of cat toys with changeable feather lures so they don't get bored. I also built a really WEIRD/WILD cat highway all over my living room and I throw toys up to them that they swat back down to me. I'm a crazy old cat lady.
You sound like a lovely owner. My girl adores birds too, but in a bad way. We have wild turkeys who like to parade over our property every afternoon, like they're clocking in on a dang work schedule. She wants them BADLY, and will claw at the window incessantly when she sees them. The turkeys are SO done with her-- sometimes they'll approach the window and peck at the glass, trying to drive her away. Half tempted to let her satisfy her bloodlust, but I'm afraid she'll get beaten up. She only ever goes outside on harness walks for this reason. Without my supervision, either she'll rob the entire neighborhood of all our songbirds, or she'll get jumped by the fan-feathered gobble gang. No shame in a little cackling amongst crazy cat ladies, though. Kekekekehs happen. 😺
@@MadamFoogie "Kekekekehs Happen" bwaahahaaaa NICE! I have finally started taking my girls on harness walks too! Well, we just stay in the yard and they pretend that they are indian scouts or whatever. Have a great day!
My black cat was a foundling. He may or may not have been feral because he was picked up close to a feral cat colony. He was friendly so I don't really think that he was feral. However, we went for a number of years where he was super independent and never really wanted to be close to me. He would talk to me and follow me around but he never wanted my lap, never wanted to be picked up, and would slide away if I tried to pet him. Until he got really sick and wouldn't eat and I had to pay a lot of one on one attention to him to force feed him and give him medication. I did this by going into the bathroom with him, holding him in my lap as I sat on the floor, and forcing him to do what was needed to help him to get well. It wasn't too long after that that he started, little by little, wanting my lap. Then he wanted to snuggle. Now he's almost always in my lap. He even started to greet me at the door when I come home from work and roll over on his back so I can give him a belly rub. And he does seem to enjoy the belly rub. He still doesn't want to be picked up , or to boop my nose or rub my face but sometimes when he thinks I'm asleep I can feel him sniff my nose. And I can pet him. I don't know what it was about the special care, especially since I had to hold him down and force him, but it really helped us to bond.
One of the ways that I bound with my cat is by talking to him. My cat is all black, 13 years old. I adopted him from a shelter a year ago. I have to let him be himself. He doesn't like to be pick-up or held, but he is loving.
My Lily doesn’t love to cuddle, will lay next to you, but not be held. looooves to play, and only having her for almost a year. I thought she was getting depressed, gaining weight. She’s a very active cat by nature. I noticed her sleeping more and staying upstairs. My attention wasn’t enough for her. So I bit the bullet, and got a kitten a month ago. The best decision I have EVER made. She’s lost weight, loves the kitten as if she had him. They play all the time. They sleep together. She’s always near him. She’s downstairs now. I did do my research on cat diets. Switched to mainly wet food. Only small amount of kibble. It’s also knowing when your attention isn’t enough and doing what’s best for them. I can’t believe the difference
I have a 6 month old kitten name's Leo he's an orange tabby the sweetest smartest boy ever. We cuddle he still nurses the blanket. I also have an 8 year old small Pub she's about 9 pounds. They keep each other company during the day when I'm at work but not the same Leo needs a kitty friend. My pup whose name is Lucky wants me all to herself. She will tolerate Leo even play a bit but Leo needs more he needs a kitty friend.
Aww that's so cute! I'm trying to get my cat away from kibble altogether, onto raw food, as it's the healthiest for cats, but my cat is so funny, she never had raw food before so it won't be easy to change her over. But it's really worth it, commercial pet foods are so terrible, wet is much better than kibble but they are both not as good as raw, if your cat tolerates it :) they can digest raw bone, btw, like chicken necks, it's amazing. There's great videos on here about it, if you#re interested! It should lengthen their life span, but make sure you give 10% organs and 10% bone and 80% muscle flesh (heart counts as muscle, apparently), raw egg yolks are good too but not raw egg white (albumin) as it can block the absobtion of the yolk.
Kibble is important for kitties' teeth, it helps keep the teeth clean and strong. If you don't give a lot of kibble, make sure they have something else to chew on. I recommend discussing this with your vet.
The portion about allowing my cats to have successful hunts with laser pointers and treats was really informative. I'd never considered that before, but it makes perfect sense. I'm going to incorporate that into our laser play sessions. Thank you!
Unlike previous cats I have owned, my current, 4-year-old red neutered male cat expresses his affection by jumping up on the kitchen counter and coming over and reaching out his paw to gently touch my face or shoulder. It is sometimes a hint that he wants affection or a treat, but it is always an expression of his bonding with me.
I think the thing with cats (and all pets) is they are very distinct and have their own personality. At 11:38 you mention they don’t like their bellies being petted… Not my female kitty - she rolls around on her back waiting for a belly rub. She LOVES it. Her brother, though, loves rubs on his head and chin, but (mimicking his sister) has also started to roll onto his back looking for belly rubs. Mine also love their paws rubbed, which I hear is rather unusual. Morale of the story - just see what your cat prefers as they are all unique!
Almost the same story here with my cat, although more on her chest, instead of her belly. She'll roll on her back and if you try to pet her in a "normal" way, she'll grab your hand and pull in to her chest. And that's when the really loud purring happens. She also had a brother (we unfortunately lost him earlier this year) that wanted to see what all the fuss was. So he tried it out, but didn't like it as much.
Thank you doctor! Here are 5 other ways my cat has found to bond with me: - Fishing out my dirty paper tissues out of the desktop trash can, letting me know which ones smell the best by eating whole swaths of those; - Helping me supervise chicken whenever it is being cooked, batting at it right in the frying pan so as to ensure that it won't escape; - Using my limbs as medical devices to soothe his dental discomfort by biting down hard on them; - Taking two-hour long naps cuddled up in my arms when I am sitting at my desk and threatening to become too productive; - Patiently waiting for me to get up every morning, lying right next to me in bed without ever laying as much as a paw on me, no matter how late I might be on his usual feeding schedule 💓
So cute! But you should definitely get a lid for your desk trash can and take your cat to the vet. Him eating your tissues: that's pica(the urge to eat non food items), which 1. is an indication that something is wrong, either medical or behavioral, and 2. Can lead to a whole host of health issues in and of itself: including but not limited to intestinal blockage especially with the frequency/amount stated. My sister's cat likes to play with trash (as in that is her only preferred toy/prey. all fancy store bought toys get ingnored, my sister calls her the pickiest trash panda ever 🤣),and she ate a long bit of thread a couple months ago (noticed because it was hanging out of her butt but wouldn't come out), and ended up almost having emergency surgery. The only reason she didn't is because the xray showed that by some miracle it hadn't tangled and constricted her intestines, so we very anxiously spent the next several days to week having to feed her prescription hairball gel medicine every few hours to ease the string's passage and reduce chances of it getting stuck and threatening her life.
@@jvrock7 Oh dear :-/ I'm glad your trash panda avoided surgery. I went through something similar three weeks ago; through sheer idiocy of my own, my cat swallowed a rather large piece of plastic I was using as a toy (after I had stuck a piece of his very appetizing food supplement onto it, thinking it would provide mental stimulation by forcing him to pick it out); I ended up rushing him to the vet ER at 2 in the morning, and then had to go back there during the day for an x-ray. We were as lucky as you were, this 1 inch-long and rather pointy thing went straight through his system, at just the right angle so as to avoid causing any (discernible) damage. Anyway, is it still pica when a cat only tries to swallow non-edible objects that carry the smell of food? I was not very clear in my comment by not specifying that the tissues he goes after are the ones I use as paper napkins during meals. I've caught him eating those, as well as pieces of meat packaging, even sponges when they've picked up cooking scents, but never anything that clearly isn't food. In any case thank you for your concern 🐾
Nr.1 thing of importance I learned was the privacy / own space thing. Cats will love you for it if you give them a private area where you yourself are "forbidden". Preferably high up, with window view. As long as you give a cat their own private castle, they will accept you as their chosen servant.
Our cats are really spoiled and bonded to us! We take them outside supervised for fresh air and sun, treats, playing with them, brushing. They always love to be near us! They greet us at the door when we come home from work. We have a very predictable routine in our home and they love it!
My cat travels with me for my business and she's the absolute best when we are on the road and while still quite lovely at our home, she acts more like a diva. Cats4life
My Padme, who was born on my birthday 6 years ago, came into my life and I’ve been so blessed. She plays fetch, brings her toys to me when she’s ready to play. Very smart little girl. I adore her so much we are bonded so deeply it’s to the point where it’s ridiculous but I wouldn’t change a thing. One of the best things that happened to me apart from my other loving companion Astro the dog. They love each other as well ❤️😂
I adopted an incredibly cute tiny tiger kitten when she was 2.5 months old, and now almost 8 months later she's matured into an unusual cat... she's still irresistably adorable little tiger, but she's also ridiculously affectionate... sleeping in my lap at night -- under the covers on chillier nights. And if I pick her up when she is in a relaxed mood rather than a playful one, she curls up in my arms and lays her little head on my shoulder and dozes off. I'm very lucky :)
Thanks so much for all the infos! Super helpful to the 12 yr old rescued kitty l invited into my little home. She has been w me 6 yrs now & just keep learning! And boy does she know how to be appreciative to my care!
I can confirm, cats do love routine. For my senior cat I've raised since he was 6 months old, I apparently have an unconscious set amount of times I give him pets. I know this, because sometimes when he wants more pets than that, he'll *ask* for it. I apparently also trained him to knead at blankets instead of me. I realized that recently when he gently kneaded me, and waited for a blanket to be put down before he went into hardcore biscuit making mode.
One of my cats, Caramel, a very smart Tortie, loves to play fetch with rattle mice and she only likes a certain brand (the fur is very different across brands. If you buy different kinds you'll see what I mean) Anyway, She especially loves this game at night before bed. She loves bringing them to me in bed for me to throw out into the other part of the apartment and she chases them and brings them back! It's adorable & fun for both of us.
One of my cats does that... brings the mouse to me bed... then I have to throw it, again and again... he also brings me the plastic grocery bags . About 2 a night!
I have two cats. They have drastic differences in personality. One loves to sit next to me, the other wants to sleep next to me, but doesn't stay close otherwise. I love them dearly. And I think they're fond of me! I tend to over feed them with treats.I guess this is weird, but I talk to them, and kiss the tops of their head. We three are a little family. 😍😻😻
My cat likes to go on car rides, I put him on a cat backpack where he can look outside as we ride. When the weather is nice, I also ride with him in his pack while riding my bike. Or goes grocery shopping with me, he loves to look around & always calm.
I find letting a cat sleep in the same room with you for a while, they get a chance to explore you while you are completely docile and still. Also being able to pet a cat while they eat is a good sign that you are bonding. Never run after a cat to cuddle or pet it!
Great video, doc. I always have to remind myself that my "dog mindset" is not applicable or appropriate for my kitty. It may sound weird, but when I pretend that my cat is "blessing" me with his presence, it helps me to respect his boundaries and give him love on his terms.
Since after working from home I let my cat in the backyard which is fenced in and he doesn't know that he could jump over it and for the last 2 years I just let him out in the backyard every day while I work in the sun room and watch him run after and catch birds or anything he wants to do- on my breaks I take frequent ones and I yell at the door and in he comes for combing, treats, water, I come back from break and let him back out and in an hr we're back in the bathroom for running sink water, brushes and treats again. Needless to say, he comes when I call him hehe. I've never loved a pet so much before
One thing I've learned....when my cats eat, they want me there with them. They seem to eat more when my head is right in between the 2 of them.....looking at how lions eat...seems to make sense that they want everyone present during meals. I see this as a good way to keep continuos bonding with them.
I've said this on another video, but tailoring your interactions to the cat's personality is huge. Indulging them according to their personality is a very quick way to get them to develop a very strong bond. Letting a cat groom you that wants to, rather than pushing them away, will let them bond faster, for example. I would stalk one of my cats from a doorway then switch out to a relaxed posture or offer play immediately with a toy or a long blink. I think it really comes down to becoming something that arouses interest in your cat. If you are in tune with them they will do things that are surprising behaviors. The cat I stalked and indulged in rough play would sit at the doorway of my office and guard me if I wasn't feeling social, going so far as to display aggression to someone approaching. If I was in a good mood they would let anyone pass or interact with them. All of our (4) cats knew their names and would come when called.
New cat parent here! I've had dogs for 20yrs and tbh they were more like cats 😅 all my cat friends said that they were! And now this cat is like a dog! We've been leash training and training in general! I've been doing cat school and it's been so much fun! My kitten is so affectionate, very trusting! I can hold his paws touch his belly if eye wanted or needed to (but don't becoz everyone says not to 😅)! He LOVES playing! And also doesn't care for anything I've purchased him in beds, independent toys, etc. jaajajaa! Thank you for your veedeos! Every since he adopted us 20 days ago I've been non stop watching every cat video becoz I want to be the best cat parent to him! I did this for my dogs as well! I've always wanted a cat but I've been highly allergic but out of no where it's been manageable! Hopefully it stays that way!
My two semi ferals (caught after 3 mos. on the streets) were foster brothers for 6 months before I adopted them (one white and orange-mostly white and the other younger one solid black). The white older one, kodabear, is very shy and food does not motivate him; however, he's a total sucker for shoulder scratches and loves to be brushed. The other guy, smartypants, is food motivated and loves treats. And, it goes without saying, they loves to rough house and chase each other all around my tiny apartment. They're both 100% indoor kitties and are both jealous of my attention. They have lots of toys and get fresh catnip (which I grow just outside my backdoor) a couple of times a week. We're one happy family!
My female cat has bonded to me like you wouldn't believe, very dog like in her case. It's amazing and makes me feel so special. First cat I've ever owned.
I flipped my cats upside down and cradle them like a baby. They love this and they also love their tummies rubed. It's all a matter of trust with your cat. My cats have always slept in my bed since they were born. The mother would lay next to me and her babies would spoon between us. The mother has always made me a part of the birthing process. She has always come to me when it was time and layed beside me to give birth. She trusts me and I am there to assist when needed. She is so social that sometimes I forget that she is a cat and not a little person. It is possible to understand each other with out a spoken word just by knowing each other's mannerisms and silent signals. When I leave the house they are always excited when I return because they enjoy the time we spend together.
This video is the best for coming to terms with what it means to have a human/cat relationship with a feral adoptee. I especially liked how by respecting the cats boundaries, the human can get the reward of more contact. Thank you!!!
We moved twice once in the same city & then moved countries our cat adapted & never went missing, I think she is attached to us more than her surroundings as much as you suggest.
I had talked to a vet tech once about my concerns that my frequent moves where stressing my cat, bc there was no fixed "home." And she said to me, "Maybe you are your cat's home." It really hit me. So I do think they are more attached to people over place than the Dr. suggested.
My cat and I enjoy a game of fetch, she also likes to curl up in my lap to sleep. I have even had the privilege to have her sleep in my lap stretched out on her back... I felt privileged that she felt safe enough around me to relax and sleep like that.
I'm losing bond with my cat. I unintentionally avoided him while I was staying outside or I was tired. Now he doesn’t even like me, he Don't come to me for petting,. He stays out all the time also attacking some other neighbour cats. The only time he comes home when he is hungry. What should I do? I love him so much he means everything to me
I love the bond with my cat. I bonded with her by understanding her body language, and partaking in activities with her that she enjoy. When she was younger I would go out with her and she would enjoy me coming along for her exploration. I would go down on all fours, so I am on her level.
I was and still am a dog person, but had to take care of my brother's cat when he became disabled. It has been a learning process ... who knew they had "terms"? Thank you for your help!
From the first day after I received my 9 week old sister cats, I have interacted with them via games, touch, talk etc. I woke after a short nap in my leather recliner to find both cats curling around each other, on my lap...this is a regularly renewed occasion after they get tired playing and I happen to be in my chair, especially with my legs up as I recline. I have two wonderful cats.
My cats love chasing kibble (Dr. Elsey's chicken formula) and freeze-dried treats, so I spread that quarter of their daily food allotment out over the day and often use it to end play sessions. I stopped using wand toys because my cats were much more interested in the line than the toy on the end and I was worried they'd get injured if it was pulled too hard or in the wrong direction. I switched to using elastic string, the kind that you sew with. I just tied a little loop that goes over my finger and I move the 3-6' length over all kinds of surfaces. They love it!
When my cat was new (a young stray), she was somewhat aloof, but she often sat by the window and stared outside. So I started sitting on the other side of the window and staring outside with her. Sometimes I would talk to her about what was happening out on the street. After doing that several times, she began to relax a little, and the bond began to grow. She still likes her space, but she checks on me every few hours, sometimes follows me around, and sleeps next to my bed at night.
When my Eliana wants attention and affection she comes over to pat me with her paw. Once she has my attention she moves toward the hall and I follow her. We end up in the bathroom. When we’re in the bathroom I pet her and make up silly little rhyming songs as she licks my legs. I used to wonder why she preferred the bathroom, but then I realized why. There are no distractions there! No phone or tv! Best thing I ever did was get her a 6’ cat tree. That is HER space. I don’t bother her when she’s on it or on any of her other spaces. We all need safe places.
My cat loves it when I look in his eyes and slowly wink.He does the same to me to.My cat loves to sit next to me never on my lap but next to me Hè also loves his treatball.He moves IT around and the treats slowly fall out.He can play with IT for more than an hour.He also loves his place near the window in the sun..I have a little bench special for him with his blanket.He really is my best friend
My Maxi demands at least an hour of play, split up through the day.If I'm working then its a good bit in the morning and night. The fishing pole is his favorite. As for treats, he gets a nice mouse treat once a day when I get home and I use kibble( a teaspoons worth) as kinda treat/snack. He will actually takes them out of the bowl and plays with them, then eats them. One by one, sometimes we play with them together. I didn't realize this was bonding. As for petting, he gets over stimulated easy so, I generally don't give him full body petting, he does how ever love his jowls and shoulders rubbed,lol 😋 He was abandoned, and has some anxiety, so when he gets worked up, I pick him up and we take a little tour of the house. We stop at all the doorways and along the walls and windows so he can sniff and leave his scent. With how he came to me, I've had to check myself from over mothering him, he's demanding enough, so I make sure to give him his space. Love my little bugger 😻
In April & May, a month & a day apart, I lost (2) family cats. The first to a tumor (she was 13 to15) & the second (she was 18 to 19) to kidney failure. I love them & miss them both. When days were nice I'd allow access to the screened-in back porch which every once in awhile a neighborhood cat would come by & chat with them. After they both passed about a week & a half later this neighborhood cat (partial/full Maine Coon) began coming by about every day leading to more & more time. I've called her owners twice since she wears a collar (once connected & chatted) but all during this summer she's spent more & more time & spent nights inside but I still let her do her own thing outside too when she wants to go. I want to consider her mine but I don't. I'm more hers. I've ended-up really appreciative that she's decided to spend time with me especially after that tough month.
we have our playtime ritual, treat rituals, chair & lap time ritual, brush times & bed time rituals. kitty gets lots of love & he loves his lovin'. kitty loves to have his face brushed. kitty loves to have his head scratched. kitty loves to have his chin scrubbed.
We have had many cats over many years. If we moved house, or got a new cat, we would put "butter on their "paws", so in they wouldnt wander away. My theory was ,it took them quite a while to clean away the butter, it was pleasant to take, and outside on footpaths, it took longer to dissolve.the cats would concentrate on that area long after the butter has dissolved. Any thoughts???🐱
When I was a kid growing up, almost 80 years ago, we always put butter on the pawpads of our new kitties "so that they could find their way home again". It is a wonder we didn't all slip and slide on the sidewalk during new kitten time, so many people did it! Of course felines are very intelligent and would likely have been able to find their way home without a treat on their paws, but they tolerated this odd human behaviour. 😽 Of course your beloved furry friend will live much *much* longer if you don't let it outside at all, and these days it is often against the law to let your cat go outside. So no more slippery, buttery sidewalks. 😻
We all bond with our two cats in different ways. My son is 5 and he feeds them dry food in the morning and evening, and plays with them. One of the cats behaves like they're brothers and will watch tv with my son, watch him play with legos, follow him around the house, and sleep with him. My husband feeds the cats wet food and calls them home in the evening. I train the cats and the other cat prefers my cuddles. They learned to sit down on command, get on back two legs, turn around, and lay down.
Thanks so much! "It has to be on their terms." That's a key - you can't force it. Our little princess is sort of roommate. She has her own schedule and routine. She's mostly an outdoor kitty, but she likes to be close to us and we interact often on HER terms, and it works. When she's in the mood for play or petting, she lets us know and we happily oblige. But she's her own person...er, kitty...and we give her space. The idea of "training" her: LOL. OTOH, she's been training us for over a year, and she's done a great job. ;)
I'm a lifelong dog person who is as an adult learning to speak cat. My former neighbor's cat adopted me not long after she got him, largely because I had a yard where he could hide under the bushes and play in the grass. So the bit about a cat being more loyal to a location than a person definitely spoke to me. I think I'm mostly doing well on this list, but I wonder, if I can't touch-a da belly, how am I supposed to brush the cat's belly? (Really, I could be doing better at cat brushing in general without the cat getting irritated with me, but the belly brush is a particular challenge.)
If that cat still belongs to your neighbor, you unfortunately need to do less with that cat, including no feeding, brushing etc,( i guess unless your neighbor has okayed it), otherwise kitty might break up with his owner and decide you are his new owner since your yard is already his territory
Perhaps you can just _gently_ introduce the brush to kitty. Some cats actually don't even like brushing. All of mine except one did; but it's not uncommon to hear people say their cats don't like to be brushed. I think you're probably doing better than you think you are! 🙂 It's not that you're _never_ supposed to touch their bellies; some cats ( like the one I have now! ) don't even MIND if you touch their bellies. Some cats (like his *sister* who is also part of the "package" for lack of better words right now lol), _doesn't_ like to be petted or touched on her belly; unless she "okays" it first; and even then, sometimes she'll get a little "feisty" about it. But she's feisty in general. They were both *feral* but she's the one who seems the most "feral" aka wild, of the two of them. The boy is a little snuggle bug and will tolerate just about anything; he likes to sleep with me every night; and his catnip-filled banana of course! 😂 If the cat seems irritated with you touching its belly, just back off of that for the moment; and let it call the "shots." Cats, in general, own *us* - not the other way around, unlike with dogs 😂 It's just what comes with the territory of cat "ownership..." LOL. Check out Jackson Galaxy videos; they will enlighten you a great _deal_ on how to interact with kitty!!! And you can also try spraying objects you would like the cat to "warm up" to ( beds, brushes, etc ) with catnip-spray; you can buy it on Amazon, and I'm sure, many pet stores sell it!! Good luck and don't be too hard on yourself; you're learning and from what I can tell, you're doing a fine job so far!! 😃❤ Happy Holidays!!!
My young cat has a bond with the first toy I brought home with him. A rescued kitten, he was pretty wild. Now when he wants to play he drags that toy out to me, even though he prefers other toys for the actual fun. I am well trained. He keeps me active and laughing every day.
Food and respect! Dont force them to do stuff or do things they obviously dont like and associate yourself with food! I love kitties and 1000% have bonded with mine!
My cat loves the wire toys attached to the pole with a little bee on the end of the wire. Something about the way it moves must simulate prey because he goes nuts. Then when he catches it he walks away with it in his mouth lol.
A community cat I’ve bonded with likes to hang out in a local shop . There it finds a nice safe space tucked away from the patrons which come in and out. However, when the cat hears my voice, I hear its collar bell tinkling and it will come to greet me with usually a meow, rubbing against my legs, then kind of leaning its hips against one of my legs while its tail will hook on my leg. This cat loves to have its ears, face, and head rubbed. Every couple of days I take it a Ciao Churo treat which it really enjoys.
I've seen videos where owners are petting their cat in a way the cat enjoys but if they keep doing it too long the cat gets annoyed, especially true if the person has their attention focused on something else and is kind of mindlessly petting over and over in the same spot. The human is distracted and then bam, the cat reacts in a not so good way.
This can happen for sure. It's important to be present when we engage with our cats and to look out for any signs they have reached their contact threshold. Otherwise be warned you may get swiped at !
No...it's not. None of this would good info. I can't say that I'm a doctor but I'm a cat rescuer and have worked with them all my life. Absolutely disgusted by some of her suggestions.
I had a very special bond with my 2nd cat with my family. I was the first person that met him when he was a cute stray cat. I was the only one that he trusted me in belly rubs on my belly. I used a gentle force to made him to laid on my belly for the belly rubs and even kisses on his head. He just melted into me. He also let me hugged him on the floor while I was laying with him in my arms. I didn’t played with him that much. He did played with the 1st cat inside the house. This cat was a big lover. He loved to be petted by multiple of hands. My favorite memory of him was at the vet mobile in the early 90’s. I even held him and petted him to be calm during that visit. He was on the chubby side but, he was a big kitty cat. His weight was 20 pounds for the longest time. I never remembered in petting him the wrong way. He was one of a kind for a cat. My 1st cat hated to be petted on his tummy. He did kicked my hand away and a few minutes later he did gently bite me. My 2nd cats was very strange one but, he was almost liked having a dog around. Some kitties do liked their belly rubs. I even had this cat that my sister gave me before moving towards Orlando back in late March 1999. I even helped her in raising him from kitten towards adult cat. Luckily that cat knew me. He even gotten settled really quickly in my apartment. I used to give him a little bit of belly rubs while I was holding him in my arms on my love seat while watching television. Even he did give me kisses on my right ear which it did tickled by his tongue. Even cats do responds to their names when calling on them.
I tamed a wild cat some weeks ago... Now she comes 2 a day for a visit, hugging and petting included. When feeding her, I sit besides her, petting her, in the small pauses. I also whisper to her, mostly all the time I am close to her. When I call her, she comes to me and she hunts treats, I throw out for her as well. I suggest slow movements (!), always advise your cat, when you are moving and never talk loud or scream at her! Slow blinking helps too... Kind regards from Germany
Great video 🙏🏻 but two things were totally different with my cats: 1. they both loved to be petted on their bellies, for ever! And 2. one of them lived for over 20 years and when she was 18 I moved to another city, away from her familiar habitat. She actually enjoyed the new place way more (less high ceilings) and adjusted within days. Maybe because I was travelling with her starting when she was a kitten. From my experience when you bond very early, they're never grumpy or even aggressive. 😻
My Harley (she's about 1 year old) loves chasing after treats. We pick bouncy ones, like greenies and throw them across the room for her to chase around. We call it a Snack Attack. As soon as you open the bag, she's ready to pounce.
I'm still trying to figure out how to get my cat to not be afraid of me. I got him from a shelter 6 months ago. He hides a great majority of the day and mostly comes out to eat & use the litter box at night. I don't bother him but I do talk to him even though he's hiding. When he does come out and I happen to go through the room he's in he goes back to his hiding spot. I put treats out for him that's across the room from his hiding spot. I tell him to come get his treats and of course, shake the treat container a little so he can hear that. He won't come out and eat them until I leave the room. I feel so sorry for him.
Just give him time. Maybe put a few treats down just in front of his hiding spot and then back up and give him space. That way he can stick just his head out to get them so he still feels safe and can adjust to your presence. Also if you can, ignore him when he is caught out. It will make you seem like less of threat.
@@christinaclark9754 Thanks. I've been putting treats out every day, farther and farther away from his hiding spot for 7 months now, and he's been coming out to get them. He's staying out of his hiding spot more and more. I'm happy with his progress although it's slow.
If you do not watch already look for Jackson Galaxy tips. He recommends giving space, but pushing their comfort level slightly over time so they build trust. He's on RUclips. Did well for my shy kitty.
My two Bengals definitely are bonded deeply with humans, over any territory. It helped so much when we moved because they would follow me around on ever widening walks until I was sure they had the area mapped and wouldn't get lost.
We have such a cat - we thought he was abandoned when the owners moved, but maybe he was just attached to the certain place. One day a fluffy big cat just started sleeping in our garden under a hay. I thought he was sleeping while his owners were at work, so decided that maybe cat gets hungry so i feed him. First he was scared of me, after i fed him he started coming to me. After enquiring around I found out he did not have owners, so we re taking care of him. Very nice cat but requires much more care than my own 2 cats because he is fluffy and he also has hiv.
Thks for this video! I just love my 4 cats! Each are different yet similar. Very affectionate. I am quiet with them and respond according to their individual ways/patterns. I think that they recognize my respect for them. My cat Babe is a real sweetie, and she gives me ‘love bites’. She never does scary hard bites.....and I understand her way of loving. I do not require her to.....accept excessive attention. She just likes....’being nearby’. She talks to me. She was feral for 3 years, before. The others are sweet and uniquely loving as well. I make chicken veggie broth to put on their food. I subscribed. Ahna
Yes. I think you nailed it with needing to be quiet and respectful in responding to their individual ways. My two cats, also feral at the outset, who have since become so loving and sweet, are very very different. The boy when he sleeps, is a cuddlebug; but when he's awake...watch out‼😂 He can be a terror sometimes hahaha! (Nothing terrible; just ordinary kitty shenanigans lol. But he's crazy at times! LOL). My girl kitty, also feral and his littermate aka sister, is much quieter...and *doesn't* like loud crazy goings-on and lets you know it, if anything offends her sensibilities haha. She's a sweetheart. They both are. But they are like polar opposites. I let their *purrsonalities* dictate how I interact with them, too. I think that's the way to go...not just with cats; but with any animal - or anyone! 😃🥰❤
My baby was an orphaned baby, lived with someone else for six months before I got her. She's never liked to he held, and it took her a little bit to seek me out for anything other than food. Now she be wants to be close for about 80 percent of the time with s mid Day nap off by herself, and private time in her window. But she's never taken food from my hand. She prefers I either toss it for her to chase, or just set it on the floor/her plate. If she hurries away from me several feet when I get the jar, she wants me to throw it. If she sits at my feet or at dish.. and she used to like a small piece of cheese or deli meat every once in a while but not as she's gotten older. I want a tree for her but y apartment is so very small.. do you have any thought in a set of a few wall shelves and a little hideaway on the wall so she can go higher up?
I teach a lot of tricks to my cat (clicker training). She loves it. It's easier than I tought and the more I teach her, the faster she learns. I also trained her to be more patient with food and treats, to come to me when I call her and to stay at her place when I ask her to. She also does some parkour. I make her jump on the furniture, on her tree and make her come down and then jump again... I do it at least twice a day, more if I feel that her energy level is high. She is a very stressed cat and I can see it is really helping her. She's almost 2 years old, been with me for 10 months. Took her at a shelter. She was agressive at the beginning and had trust issues. Now, I can pet her, take her in my arms, she spends the night with me and she is more and more affectionate. 🥰 It's worth it.
What about a older cat that is 15 yrs old and has sight problems? I do watch what my girl likes and give lots cuddles on her terms. I also don't give her the full run of the house at nighttime, she comes to bed with me and has access to the spare room, next door over from mine, last time she had the whole house she got confused and peed in the doorframe from lounge to hallway... Never get upset, smile get the wet vac out and clean it, she forgot the tray in the Lounge. LOVE your cats, they are limited time only, I have 15 yr old girl and she should be good for another 5 yrs all going well...... I do everything I can to keep her happy.... Would like to know more caring for much older cats....
Another thing cats like to do is check what you are doing! 😅 My cat is the typical curious cat that has to be in on every and any project I do 😁 Even now having moved to the countryside, and her being outdoors. If I start some project she will come over to investigate 😅
I have had a lot of cats over my life and every one of them has loved belly rubs. I mean they would all come to my and roll on their backs and demand them. It seems alien to me that most people don't have that with their cats. Even the feral boy I rescued who was completely wild and would attack if you looked him in the eye once he learned to trust me and decided to adopt me and become a house cat would ask for them. Love your videos always full of interesting info.
I know what you mean. Every time I hear it I'm like, not my kitties. I girl kitty ever night has to have full belly rubs, chin to bug, and if I don't she drives me nuts until I do it. My boy isn't as abscessed but still asks for them often.
Such an important video. Cats are animals who live in their bodies, not their minds. They want to run, jump, hide, and PLAY!! Thank you for this important message!
My cat only hates me when I take her to the vet! I have had her since she was a baby. I had to bottle feed her. She's going on 5 years old now. Very intelligent cat. She's very talkative but don't like cuddles.
My cat loves to chase the kibble, or even better, her favorite, freeze-dried chicken treats. I also hide it and put it in various spots and up higher to encourage her to jump. Also, long thick strings make her crazy, playing chase (she likes me to chase her), running through boxes open on both ends, and the little go-cat bee toy.
I make up a melody/song for each of my cats, that is about only them. It can be sung as a lullaby with soothing words, or the melody can use impromptu words that fit a specific situation. "David, David the cat. I love you but get out of my way or I'll vacuum your tail!" is a recent aria. Each cat recognizes their melody, and enjoys being called to supper with their special song.
We lucked out both of our cats female 19 months old and male 10 months old love belly rubs. They literally flop in front of us no matter where we are; on the couch, on the bed or standing in the kitchen stretched out belly exposed until they get their belly rubs. We rub their bellies back and forth like you would a dog and they love it. I swear they were raised by dogs because they absolutely love their bellies rubbed.
I had a really special bond with a beautiful lilac point Siamese. He would follow me everywhere, sleep next to me every night. Ride on my shoulders, and gently nibble at my toes if I didn’t give him enough love. I could hold him, flip him, chase him, the trust between us was pretty amazing. If I went on trips, he would get separation anxiety. Wouldn’t, eat, wouldn’t go to the restroom, so I made the mistake of trusting a boarding clinic to assure he was being monitored and loved. His health declined so rapidly (he was extremely healthy and only 5), he died almost immediately after bringing him home (the clinic was extremely neglectful. I’ll absolutely never forgive myself) I miss him so much, not sure I will ever have a bond like that again. A part of me died with him. I’m so deeply lonely, and miss him more than I’ve ever missed anyone/anything. He was extremely precious to me.
I always say one of the main reasons I love cats more is because when they love you, you really earned that love lol most dogs who don’t have trauma I feel like love or trust anyone easily (not to say they don’t bond and have deep love for certain people of course)
My cat loves going outside daily. He doesn't use the litter box anymore.. he prefers to do his business outside. but when he's home he's either sleeping, eating, or getting massages.
Thank you for the idea of throwing treats as play. I don't know why I didn't think of this sooner. My one male cat just doesn't like most toys except mice with beans in them. He doesn't fetch but he will occasionally bring me one as a present. He holds them in his mouth and yowls as he walks with them. lol I did the treat throw play with him just now and he seemed to enjoy it, so I will continue this. I promise to be careful with how much I give him because he is a little chunky and I am trying to slim him down.
This was so insightful. I learned so much, saved this for future reference. Thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge. I really appreciate your approach, putting the cat's needs first and meeting them at their level.
How do YOU increase the bond with your cat? Share your favorite rituals and tips in the comments.
Having her sleep on my chest 😴 🥰🥰🧡🧡🧡
Love dr.Vuitton she is so cool🤓 One of my cats (the less cuddly one) bond with listening to us reading, and loves eating from our hands. She loves to be in the same room, somewhat close, but not in the lap. The other one loves to lay on our tummies and cuddle, but would never eat from our hands😅 both bond with us thru play really well, so playtime is a staple every day. As far as bonding with eachother- weeell..not there yet😆💓we had the younger cat for almost 3 years and then adopted a supersweet 8year old recently from the shelter. So now we are working on bonding all together😍
My cat loves being brushed. she does not like being held and she is not a lap sitter. but she does like to sit close.
Can you please tell us why cats try to bite and how to stop that
I play with my cat a lot but she always try to bite even if I was sleeping or doing other things
At night when we go to bed my cat wants me to hold his paw with one hand while I put the other one over his tummy. And of course, he has to be snuggled like a baby while this is going on.
But I hadn't realized they bond to a place and now how I got him makes more sense. When he was 8 weeks old his Mama got mad at her owner's (our neighbors) and moved all the kittens under our house. We helped return them home but he kept coming back every 3-4 days for about two weeks before we decided to keep him. I hope that won't stay a problem because we are moving next week. He is a completely inside cat and has been neutered.
Cat: "It's a common misconception that humans can't be trained. With patience, most humans can be trained to provide food and open doors when you meow."
So I’ve had cats my whole life; and loved each then so much individually. However, my boy I have now, he’s turning 8 this year, I’ve never had a bond like this before. He was a kitten my mom rescued off the streets, and he just instantly took to me. He’s been with me though the last of high school, my first apartment, all my moves. Bad days and good days. Always waiting at the door for me when I get home from work, and curled up by my side when I wake up. I can even smush my face into his belly and he’ll just purr away. He’ll try licking me, but my hair just gets stuck 😂 he loves treats and playing with this candy cane toy he’s had since he was a kitten, that’s tied to a string. He’s so unbelievably sweet, and truly my best friend. It breaks my heart when I hear people call cats aloof, and low maintenance. I wish everyone could experience the love and bond of a cat!
You're one blessed human and cool 😎 person.
Sounds like he’s soo lucky to have you and you him I’ve had dogs all my life liked a cat to look at but never wanted one but I used to look after sons cat when they went away She was beautiful I found her to be so calming She passed away and it hit me I stared to dream cats left right and centre one day I said I’d love a cat everyone said no you have two dogs that won’t work but I just knew it was meant to be He brought a cat home for me I named him Pickles he gets on fab with Maggie and Rosie I now have a kitten called Honey best thing I’ve ever done laugh every day now 😊
Hearing about your boy kitten is really heartwarming! So reminds me of my precious little guy Mokie, who was so charming, affectionate and funny, silly, a true member of our family. He really seemed human in his ways sometimes, loved to make us laugh! I do believe they chose us and I'm hoping to find another sweet friend, or rather be found by, to love and cherish through the next years. Enjoy your little one, best wishes! 👌
So true
I also thought cats were aloof...Not my Buddy....1st thing in morning we have to do our loving and cuddling and sometimes thru out the day...I never would have believed it....He follows me everywhere outside....love my Buddy!!!
My wife and I inadvertently adopted a really sweet cat about seven months ago. He almost instantly attached himself to my wife...he greats her when she gets home, sleeps with her, etc. However....the kitty is my buddy when my wife is at work (I'm retired), he always comes over to wherever I am, I play with him using a "fishing pole" toy, give him treats, etc.
He DOES enjoy pets and scratches on his back...in fact, as you pet/scratch him, he licks you!! 😂
I always was a dog person but, I guess I'm a cat person now, lol!!
I really enjoy your channel!! Thank you!!
Oh my goodness Paul, yes!! My husband said he didn’t even like cats cuz he thought they were mean. Lol but he plays with our Mitsy every morning after his night shift. I wake up to him laughing out loud.
I think our teacher here has a good classroom growing.
When my cat sees me sit up first thing in the morning and also after our midday nap together, she licks me like a dog. I kinda just love it. It’s as if she’s saying “good morning mom, you feeling ok? Here pet me I’ll ease your the physical pain by distracting you with lovins.”
Once I gather the strength I feed her then it’s play time with the strings and ponytails. I think she enjoys the ponytails so much because they retract very fast when she bends them. It’s hilarious. I really feel like she is my saving grace when I’m home alone or when my daughter is asleep. She has gotten me through the worst of times with my chronic pain since the moment I found her and applied for her adoption. Even helped get through the mental load and realization of being 30 and told if I keep working I’ll end up paralyzed from the waste down. Gosh I wonder if I need to do specific things to make her a service cat? Or whatever the term for mental calming helper is🤷🏻♀️. If that’s even possible anyway.
I agree I’m enjoying the channel too!
@@aliciam_g16 I can feel you. I had a twelve year old white cat.! It was very unknown to the real world.at the time.
She suddenly passed away from an illness. Jess can hear this guy's silent at times when she waits for him inside the family's backyard home into the late afternoon hours.. It was a platonic relationship at it's best with the cat.
Terrible stereotype that you've broken😻😻😻
@@aliciam_g16 In the US there are 1) service animals and 2) emotional support animals. Last I checked, there are only 2 species that qualify for use as a Service Animal: dogs and mini horses. For dogs there is also specificity for certain breeds and the animals undergo intensive training to assist with specific medical issues. However, virtually any animal can be classified as an Emotional Support Animal. I think I read about someone's Emotional Support iguana. You can buy little vests and jackets that say something like "support animal" but it doesn't entitle you to privileges afforded to !n actual Service Animal, so it's really not necessary. I do know that in some cases claiming an Emotional Support Animal can help with rental situations. If a letter from a psychiatric or medical doctor stating that your cat is an emotional support animal is obtained, it can help to have pet deposit waived or allow someone to have a cat in an otherwise pet-free place. So it can be handy there.
Cats are amazing. I became a cat guy, too, when my wife brought him home. Lol, I call him my buddy as well.
Take it easy, my friend.
My teen daughters seem so offended that all 3 of our cats love me best, but if they would play with, brush and give treats to the cats, then they would be just as stalked by them as me 🤣
My little sister is also like this but that because she won’t even bother to play or feed him and stopped participate in scoop his litter like she promised.
When I was a kid my uncle lived with us his room down the basement.His pets loved him like a God and I was so jealous. I did everything for these animals but could not compete. I do believe what you're saying tho. We love the ones that take care of us and give attention.
@@kristinmary4025 The cats most likely were bonded with him. I’m sure they liked and appreciated you though. I had a cat that I’d raised from a kitten. He almost died from pneumonia at 6 mos old and I nursed him back. We had a very strong bond. I’m still grieving his passing and it was 4 years ago. He was very sick and hung on for me. I had to give him permission to let go. He was 14 y/o. He was very sociable and was very loving to other people that treated him well. When I traveled for work my best friend would keep him for a few days. One time I came back and went to get him she said that he didn’t want to come home and he was very happy there with her so I should just leave him. She challenged me and said that if I left he wouldn’t budge. He said hello to me when I walked in then went and laid under the table. I sat down and chatted for a bit with my friend. She said see he wants to stay he’s so comfortable. Lol 😆 I just laughed, stood up and said let’s go home Lucas and he jumped up so fast to get in his carrier she was shocked 😯 and had nothing to say except wow! I said Lucas loves his mommy. He loves you and appreciates you but he knows where his home is and who he wants to be with. He was just very laid back and got comfortable no matter where he was especially if it was a safe and loving space. Hopefully you have a cat or will adopt one one day. Kittens are great but need more training. Adopting one about 1-3 years old is good because they’re over the rambunctious phase and will listen and learn quickly. ♥️
@May Bee
I’m having to explain this to my almost 6 yr old daughter as well. She gets so sad when she’s petting our cat and as soon as Mitsy sees me she leaves my daughter in the dust. Poor thing doesn’t understand.. when our kids and our fur babies see mom, they actually see food. Lol so I get it
@@jaeshasway My husband and I adopted an 8 year old cat last June and she is just wonderful. If we ever adopt again in the future it'll be another senior. 😻😻
I retired 7 years ago. This cat that I adopted 5 years ago is _super_ bonded to me, because I’m home all the time.
I had just be given a kitten a little more than a week ago. Since I'm on a fixed budget I could only buy cat food and litter for her box. I can buy toys this Friday; but meanwhile I've taken the shoelace from one of my old sneakers and rolled up a piece of tinfoil to let her play. Bonding with her is easy . Sometimes she'll sit next to me and likes to be petted. Recently she's started sitting on my lap for about a minute. Nala makes the decisions on what she wants to do.
I bought my 2 kittens expensive toys and they prefer the cardboard box and a tin foil ball. Go figure?
You got it, anything they can chase. My cat loves my shoelaces. anything they can swat around like a mouse is great.
You can easily make car toys by yourself. Check Kitten Lady's vedios, she had taught people how to DIY cat toys.
I bought my fur bean an $8 toy with an electronic squeaker ...he has minus-zero interest. Dropped a twist tie on the floor- cat went bananas.
He also love chasing a dried out aponge- cut in half, and almost any other lightweight flotsam that ends up on the floor.
Another fun way to stimulate play (that my guy loves) is to put a treat or dry piece of food in an empty toilet paper or paper towel roll... or a paper bag (which is also hilarious to watch.) Don't do this with plastic, obviously.
You can also make your own string toy- i recommend a smooth nylon string though cos something rough like hemp or twine can twist around them and get them caught by the tail or something cos it doesn't slide off of them easily.
When you do have little extra $ to splurge on your cat, i would recommend a cardboard scratcher > any sort of prefab toy.
Another wasted expense i made was on a cat bed. The cat is about three years old and probably had never had a cat bed and i though it would be nice, but he hasn't even added it to the rotation, and it's been weeks
@@allonekingdom exactly! No need for expensive toys, cardboard boxes and paper bags and you have a happy cat 😂
I moved many times with my 2 cats, cause I had to. Never had aby problems. I treat them with respect and we have really strong Bond.
Him will lap sit and be pet everywhere all day... She is not the same. She absolutely melts when I talk to her. While she doesn't really understand the words, she knows I'm vocalizing love and she will roll on her back in pure happy cat
I bond with my girls by cackling with them at the birds and squirrels outside out window. We get excited about the really fast or BIG birds and we all look at each other like "Did you see THAT one?????!!!" I also have a toy closet with a wide variety of cat toys with changeable feather lures so they don't get bored. I also built a really WEIRD/WILD cat highway all over my living room and I throw toys up to them that they swat back down to me. I'm a crazy old cat lady.
*crazy smart cat lady
True true
You sound like a lovely owner. My girl adores birds too, but in a bad way. We have wild turkeys who like to parade over our property every afternoon, like they're clocking in on a dang work schedule. She wants them BADLY, and will claw at the window incessantly when she sees them. The turkeys are SO done with her-- sometimes they'll approach the window and peck at the glass, trying to drive her away. Half tempted to let her satisfy her bloodlust, but I'm afraid she'll get beaten up.
She only ever goes outside on harness walks for this reason. Without my supervision, either she'll rob the entire neighborhood of all our songbirds, or she'll get jumped by the fan-feathered gobble gang.
No shame in a little cackling amongst crazy cat ladies, though. Kekekekehs happen. 😺
@@MadamFoogie "Kekekekehs Happen" bwaahahaaaa NICE! I have finally started taking my girls on harness walks too! Well, we just stay in the yard and they pretend that they are indian scouts or whatever. Have a great day!
You sound like such a great owner. Your cats must love you and have a great bond!
My black cat was a foundling. He may or may not have been feral because he was picked up close to a feral cat colony. He was friendly so I don't really think that he was feral. However, we went for a number of years where he was super independent and never really wanted to be close to me. He would talk to me and follow me around but he never wanted my lap, never wanted to be picked up, and would slide away if I tried to pet him. Until he got really sick and wouldn't eat and I had to pay a lot of one on one attention to him to force feed him and give him medication. I did this by going into the bathroom with him, holding him in my lap as I sat on the floor, and forcing him to do what was needed to help him to get well. It wasn't too long after that that he started, little by little, wanting my lap. Then he wanted to snuggle. Now he's almost always in my lap. He even started to greet me at the door when I come home from work and roll over on his back so I can give him a belly rub. And he does seem to enjoy the belly rub. He still doesn't want to be picked up , or to boop my nose or rub my face but sometimes when he thinks I'm asleep I can feel him sniff my nose. And I can pet him. I don't know what it was about the special care, especially since I had to hold him down and force him, but it really helped us to bond.
One of the ways that I bound with my cat is by talking to him. My cat is all black, 13 years old. I adopted him from a shelter a year ago. I have to let him be himself. He doesn't like to be pick-up or held, but he is loving.
My Lily doesn’t love to cuddle, will lay next to you, but not be held. looooves to play, and only having her for almost a year. I thought she was getting depressed, gaining weight. She’s a very active cat by nature. I noticed her sleeping more and staying upstairs. My attention wasn’t enough for her. So I bit the bullet, and got a kitten a month ago. The best decision I have EVER made. She’s lost weight, loves the kitten as if she had him. They play all the time. They sleep together. She’s always near him. She’s downstairs now. I did do my research on cat diets. Switched to mainly wet food. Only small amount of kibble. It’s also knowing when your attention isn’t enough and doing what’s best for them. I can’t believe the difference
😻😻😻😻😻
that's so awesome!!
I have a 6 month old kitten name's Leo he's an orange tabby the sweetest smartest boy ever. We cuddle he still nurses the blanket. I also have an 8 year old small Pub she's about 9 pounds. They keep each other company during the day when I'm at work but not the same Leo needs a kitty friend. My pup whose name is Lucky wants me all to herself. She will tolerate Leo even play a bit but Leo needs more he needs a kitty friend.
Aww that's so cute! I'm trying to get my cat away from kibble altogether, onto raw food, as it's the healthiest for cats, but my cat is so funny, she never had raw food before so it won't be easy to change her over. But it's really worth it, commercial pet foods are so terrible, wet is much better than kibble but they are both not as good as raw, if your cat tolerates it :) they can digest raw bone, btw, like chicken necks, it's amazing. There's great videos on here about it, if you#re interested! It should lengthen their life span, but make sure you give 10% organs and 10% bone and 80% muscle flesh (heart counts as muscle, apparently), raw egg yolks are good too but not raw egg white (albumin) as it can block the absobtion of the yolk.
Kibble is important for kitties' teeth, it helps keep the teeth clean and strong. If you don't give a lot of kibble, make sure they have something else to chew on. I recommend discussing this with your vet.
The portion about allowing my cats to have successful hunts with laser pointers and treats was really informative. I'd never considered that before, but it makes perfect sense. I'm going to incorporate that into our laser play sessions. Thank you!
We don't let cats play with lasers in our house any more. Our new house, obviously.
Unlike previous cats I have owned, my current, 4-year-old red neutered male cat expresses his affection by jumping up on the kitchen counter and coming over and reaching out his paw to gently touch my face or shoulder. It is sometimes a hint that he wants affection or a treat, but it is always an expression of his bonding with me.
I think the thing with cats (and all pets) is they are very distinct and have their own personality. At 11:38 you mention they don’t like their bellies being petted… Not my female kitty - she rolls around on her back waiting for a belly rub. She LOVES it. Her brother, though, loves rubs on his head and chin, but (mimicking his sister) has also started to roll onto his back looking for belly rubs. Mine also love their paws rubbed, which I hear is rather unusual. Morale of the story - just see what your cat prefers as they are all unique!
My kitties love having their bellies rubbed and snuggled!
Almost the same story here with my cat, although more on her chest, instead of her belly. She'll roll on her back and if you try to pet her in a "normal" way, she'll grab your hand and pull in to her chest. And that's when the really loud purring happens. She also had a brother (we unfortunately lost him earlier this year) that wanted to see what all the fuss was. So he tried it out, but didn't like it as much.
@@evilbob840 cats are so cute
all 3 of my cats LOVE belly rubs! they roll over for it too 🥰🥰
So does my cat. I have had many cats and I have never had one who like belly rubs before.
My cats have always been my babies. I love them and they know it. I know they love me.
Thank you doctor! Here are 5 other ways my cat has found to bond with me:
- Fishing out my dirty paper tissues out of the desktop trash can, letting me know which ones smell the best by eating whole swaths of those;
- Helping me supervise chicken whenever it is being cooked, batting at it right in the frying pan so as to ensure that it won't escape;
- Using my limbs as medical devices to soothe his dental discomfort by biting down hard on them;
- Taking two-hour long naps cuddled up in my arms when I am sitting at my desk and threatening to become too productive;
- Patiently waiting for me to get up every morning, lying right next to me in bed without ever laying as much as a paw on me, no matter how late I might be on his usual feeding schedule 💓
So cute!
But you should definitely get a lid for your desk trash can and take your cat to the vet. Him eating your tissues: that's pica(the urge to eat non food items), which 1. is an indication that something is wrong, either medical or behavioral, and 2. Can lead to a whole host of health issues in and of itself: including but not limited to intestinal blockage especially with the frequency/amount stated.
My sister's cat likes to play with trash (as in that is her only preferred toy/prey. all fancy store bought toys get ingnored, my sister calls her the pickiest trash panda ever 🤣),and she ate a long bit of thread a couple months ago (noticed because it was hanging out of her butt but wouldn't come out), and ended up almost having emergency surgery. The only reason she didn't is because the xray showed that by some miracle it hadn't tangled and constricted her intestines, so we very anxiously spent the next several days to week having to feed her prescription hairball gel medicine every few hours to ease the string's passage and reduce chances of it getting stuck and threatening her life.
@@jvrock7 Oh dear :-/ I'm glad your trash panda avoided surgery. I went through something similar three weeks ago; through sheer idiocy of my own, my cat swallowed a rather large piece of plastic I was using as a toy (after I had stuck a piece of his very appetizing food supplement onto it, thinking it would provide mental stimulation by forcing him to pick it out); I ended up rushing him to the vet ER at 2 in the morning, and then had to go back there during the day for an x-ray. We were as lucky as you were, this 1 inch-long and rather pointy thing went straight through his system, at just the right angle so as to avoid causing any (discernible) damage. Anyway, is it still pica when a cat only tries to swallow non-edible objects that carry the smell of food? I was not very clear in my comment by not specifying that the tissues he goes after are the ones I use as paper napkins during meals. I've caught him eating those, as well as pieces of meat packaging, even sponges when they've picked up cooking scents, but never anything that clearly isn't food. In any case thank you for your concern 🐾
Nr.1 thing of importance I learned was the privacy / own space thing. Cats will love you for it if you give them a private area where you yourself are "forbidden". Preferably high up, with window view. As long as you give a cat their own private castle, they will accept you as their chosen servant.
They still let you live in your own house?
@@robambrose4199i decided to live with my grandparents because i dont think my cat is ready for me to live in my house with him
@@7avdes :)
Our cats are really spoiled and bonded to us!
We take them outside supervised for fresh air and sun, treats, playing with them, brushing. They always love to be near us! They greet us at the door when we come home from work. We have a very predictable routine in our home and they love it!
My cat travels with me for my business and she's the absolute best when we are on the road and while still quite lovely at our home, she acts more like a diva.
Cats4life
Too cute!
My Padme, who was born on my birthday 6 years ago, came into my life and I’ve been so blessed. She plays fetch, brings her toys to me when she’s ready to play. Very smart little girl. I adore her so much we are bonded so deeply it’s to the point where it’s ridiculous but I wouldn’t change a thing. One of the best things that happened to me apart from my other loving companion Astro the dog. They love each other as well ❤️😂
Cats bonding with a Place is sooo true. My neighbors moved about 2 miles away and their cat constantly walked to the old house and cried to get in.
I adopted an incredibly cute tiny tiger kitten when she was 2.5 months old, and now almost 8 months later she's matured into an unusual cat... she's still irresistably adorable little tiger, but she's also ridiculously affectionate... sleeping in my lap at night -- under the covers on chillier nights.
And if I pick her up when she is in a relaxed mood rather than a playful one, she curls up in my arms and lays her little head on my shoulder and dozes off. I'm very lucky :)
You are very lucky to have a cute cuddle, make the most of your special gift everyday ❤
Thanks so much for all the infos! Super helpful to the 12 yr old rescued kitty l invited into my little home. She has been w me 6 yrs now & just keep learning! And boy does she know how to be appreciative to my care!
I can confirm, cats do love routine. For my senior cat I've raised since he was 6 months old, I apparently have an unconscious set amount of times I give him pets. I know this, because sometimes when he wants more pets than that, he'll *ask* for it. I apparently also trained him to knead at blankets instead of me. I realized that recently when he gently kneaded me, and waited for a blanket to be put down before he went into hardcore biscuit making mode.
One of my cats, Caramel, a very smart Tortie, loves to play fetch with rattle mice and she only likes a certain brand (the fur is very different across brands. If you buy different kinds you'll see what I mean) Anyway, She especially loves this game at night before bed. She loves bringing them to me in bed for me to throw out into the other part of the apartment and she chases them and brings them back! It's adorable & fun for both of us.
❤I think Torties must be smart cats. I can see the intelligence in mine and she surprises me every day
One of my cats does that... brings the mouse to me bed... then I have to throw it, again and again... he also brings me the plastic grocery bags . About 2 a night!
My little Aífe is a Tortie and she's obsessed with fetch with ice cubes. It's cause I eat it through the day and she's just like mama 😹
I have two cats. They have drastic differences in personality. One loves to sit next to me, the other wants to sleep next to me, but doesn't stay close otherwise. I love them dearly. And I think they're fond of me! I tend to over feed them with treats.I guess this is weird, but I talk to them, and kiss the tops of their head. We three are a little family. 😍😻😻
My cat likes to go on car rides, I put him on a cat backpack where he can look outside as we ride. When the weather is nice, I also ride with him in his pack while riding my bike. Or goes grocery shopping with me, he loves to look around & always calm.
I find letting a cat sleep in the same room with you for a while, they get a chance to explore you while you are completely docile and still. Also being able to pet a cat while they eat is a good sign that you are bonding. Never run after a cat to cuddle or pet it!
Dear Dr. Wooten, you are awesome! I'm so impressed with your empathy in speaking out for cats. Wow!!!!! Pinky, Sid and I love you!!
Great video, doc. I always have to remind myself that my "dog mindset" is not applicable or appropriate for my kitty. It may sound weird, but when I pretend that my cat is "blessing" me with his presence, it helps me to respect his boundaries and give him love on his terms.
Since after working from home I let my cat in the backyard which is fenced in and he doesn't know that he could jump over it and for the last 2 years I just let him out in the backyard every day while I work in the sun room and watch him run after and catch birds or anything he wants to do- on my breaks I take frequent ones and I yell at the door and in he comes for combing, treats, water, I come back from break and let him back out and in an hr we're back in the bathroom for running sink water, brushes and treats again. Needless to say, he comes when I call him hehe. I've never loved a pet so much before
One thing I've learned....when my cats eat, they want me there with them. They seem to eat more when my head is right in between the 2 of them.....looking at how lions eat...seems to make sense that they want everyone present during meals. I see this as a good way to keep continuos bonding with them.
just learned this about my cat!
I've said this on another video, but tailoring your interactions to the cat's personality is huge. Indulging them according to their personality is a very quick way to get them to develop a very strong bond. Letting a cat groom you that wants to, rather than pushing them away, will let them bond faster, for example. I would stalk one of my cats from a doorway then switch out to a relaxed posture or offer play immediately with a toy or a long blink. I think it really comes down to becoming something that arouses interest in your cat. If you are in tune with them they will do things that are surprising behaviors. The cat I stalked and indulged in rough play would sit at the doorway of my office and guard me if I wasn't feeling social, going so far as to display aggression to someone approaching. If I was in a good mood they would let anyone pass or interact with them. All of our (4) cats knew their names and would come when called.
New cat parent here! I've had dogs for 20yrs and tbh they were more like cats 😅 all my cat friends said that they were! And now this cat is like a dog! We've been leash training and training in general! I've been doing cat school and it's been so much fun! My kitten is so affectionate, very trusting! I can hold his paws touch his belly if eye wanted or needed to (but don't becoz everyone says not to 😅)! He LOVES playing! And also doesn't care for anything I've purchased him in beds, independent toys, etc. jaajajaa! Thank you for your veedeos! Every since he adopted us 20 days ago I've been non stop watching every cat video becoz I want to be the best cat parent to him! I did this for my dogs as well! I've always wanted a cat but I've been highly allergic but out of no where it's been manageable! Hopefully it stays that way!
Nice! ConCATulations!
Im excited for you!! Cats are awesome.
@@nancyayotte2297 thank you so much! It's been so much fun!! He has so much personality and is the cutest!
My two semi ferals (caught after 3 mos. on the streets) were foster brothers for 6 months before I adopted them (one white and orange-mostly white and the other younger one solid black). The white older one, kodabear, is very shy and food does not motivate him; however, he's a total sucker for shoulder scratches and loves to be brushed. The other guy, smartypants, is food motivated and loves treats. And, it goes without saying, they loves to rough house and chase each other all around my tiny apartment. They're both 100% indoor kitties and are both jealous of my attention. They have lots of toys and get fresh catnip (which I grow just outside my backdoor) a couple of times a week. We're one happy family!
I’m a first time cat owner and I must say your videos have been so insightful and helpful! Thank you so much 🤍
I'm so glad!
My female cat has bonded to me like you wouldn't believe, very dog like in her case. It's amazing and makes me feel so special. First cat I've ever owned.
I flipped my cats upside down and cradle them like a baby. They love this and they also love their tummies rubed. It's all a matter of trust with your cat. My cats have always slept in my bed since they were born. The mother would lay next to me and her babies would spoon between us. The mother has always made me a part of the birthing process. She has always come to me when it was time and layed beside me to give birth. She trusts me and I am there to assist when needed. She is so social that sometimes I forget that she is a cat and not a little person. It is possible to understand each other with out a spoken word just by knowing each other's mannerisms and silent signals. When I leave the house they are always excited when I return because they enjoy the time we spend together.
I had a little person cat for 17 years🥰
my cat only likes to be carried like a baby lol, when he was a kitten i would give him treats if he sat like a human so he got used to it lol.
What a beautiful story
@@chatticatie_ I agree!! 🥰❤
wish my cat was like this-
This video is the best for coming to terms with what it means to have a human/cat relationship with a feral adoptee. I especially liked how by respecting the cats boundaries, the human can get the reward of more contact. Thank you!!!
How to help cats catch a laser: paper bags on the floor, and they pounce with a mighty crunch! Very satisfying.
We moved twice once in the same city & then moved countries our cat adapted & never went missing, I think she is attached to us more than her surroundings as much as you suggest.
Definitely
I had talked to a vet tech once about my concerns that my frequent moves where stressing my cat, bc there was no fixed "home." And she said to me, "Maybe you are your cat's home." It really hit me. So I do think they are more attached to people over place than the Dr. suggested.
My cat and I enjoy a game of fetch, she also likes to curl up in my lap to sleep. I have even had the privilege to have her sleep in my lap stretched out on her back... I felt privileged that she felt safe enough around me to relax and sleep like that.
I'm losing bond with my cat. I unintentionally avoided him while I was staying outside or I was tired. Now he doesn’t even like me, he Don't come to me for petting,. He stays out all the time also attacking some other neighbour cats. The only time he comes home when he is hungry. What should I do? I love him so much he means everything to me
I love the bond with my cat.
I bonded with her by understanding her body language, and partaking in activities with her that she enjoy.
When she was younger I would go out with her and she would enjoy me coming along for her exploration. I would go down on all fours, so I am on her level.
I grew up with cats and it is so important to play with them.
Totally agree with this :)
Easily my favorite Dr. Cat videos online thank you thank you thank you
I was and still am a dog person, but had to take care of my brother's cat when he became disabled. It has been a learning process ... who knew they had "terms"? Thank you for your help!
Respect for you for helping your brother and his cat.
You are very kind to do that for your brother and I don't think you are going to be a dog person any longer😂😂
From the first day after I received my 9 week old sister cats, I have interacted with them via games, touch, talk etc. I woke after a short nap in my leather recliner to find both cats curling around each other, on my lap...this is a regularly renewed occasion after they get tired playing and I happen to be in my chair, especially with my legs up as I recline. I have two wonderful cats.
My cats love chasing kibble (Dr. Elsey's chicken formula) and freeze-dried treats, so I spread that quarter of their daily food allotment out over the day and often use it to end play sessions. I stopped using wand toys because my cats were much more interested in the line than the toy on the end and I was worried they'd get injured if it was pulled too hard or in the wrong direction. I switched to using elastic string, the kind that you sew with. I just tied a little loop that goes over my finger and I move the 3-6' length over all kinds of surfaces. They love it!
When my cat was new (a young stray), she was somewhat aloof, but she often sat by the window and stared outside. So I started sitting on the other side of the window and staring outside with her. Sometimes I would talk to her about what was happening out on the street. After doing that several times, she began to relax a little, and the bond began to grow. She still likes her space, but she checks on me every few hours, sometimes follows me around, and sleeps next to my bed at night.
When my Eliana wants attention and affection she comes over to pat me with her paw. Once she has my attention she moves toward the hall and I follow her. We end up in the bathroom. When we’re in the bathroom I pet her and make up silly little rhyming songs as she licks my legs. I used to wonder why she preferred the bathroom, but then I realized why. There are no distractions there! No phone or tv!
Best thing I ever did was get her a 6’ cat tree. That is HER space. I don’t bother her when she’s on it or on any of her other spaces. We all need safe places.
My cat loves it when I look in his eyes and slowly wink.He does the same to me to.My cat loves to sit next to me never on my lap but next to me Hè also loves his treatball.He moves IT around and the treats slowly fall out.He can play with IT for more than an hour.He also loves his place near the window in the sun..I have a little bench special for him with his blanket.He really is my best friend
thanks a bunch
My Maxi demands at least an hour of play, split up through the day.If I'm working then its a good bit in the morning and night. The fishing pole is his favorite.
As for treats, he gets a nice mouse treat once a day when I get home and I use kibble( a teaspoons worth) as kinda treat/snack.
He will actually takes them out of the bowl and plays with them, then eats them. One by one, sometimes we play with them together. I didn't realize this was bonding.
As for petting, he gets over stimulated easy so, I generally don't give him full body petting, he does how ever love his jowls and shoulders rubbed,lol 😋
He was abandoned, and has some anxiety, so when he gets worked up, I pick him up and we take a little tour of the house. We stop at all the doorways and along the walls and windows so he can sniff and leave his scent.
With how he came to me, I've had to check myself from over mothering him, he's demanding enough, so I make sure to give him his space.
Love my little bugger 😻
In April & May, a month & a day apart, I lost (2) family cats. The first to a tumor (she was 13 to15) & the second (she was 18 to 19) to kidney failure. I love them & miss them both. When days were nice I'd allow access to the screened-in back porch which every once in awhile a neighborhood cat would come by & chat with them. After they both passed about a week & a half later this neighborhood cat (partial/full Maine Coon) began coming by about every day leading to more & more time. I've called her owners twice since she wears a collar (once connected & chatted) but all during this summer she's spent more & more time & spent nights inside but I still let her do her own thing outside too when she wants to go. I want to consider her mine but I don't. I'm more hers. I've ended-up really appreciative that she's decided to spend time with me especially after that tough month.
It's so much more rewarding when you see your cat wanting to be near you and obviously happy with you.
we have our playtime ritual, treat rituals, chair & lap time ritual, brush times & bed time rituals. kitty gets lots of love & he loves his lovin'. kitty loves to have his face brushed. kitty loves to have his head scratched. kitty loves to have his chin scrubbed.
We have had many cats over many years. If we moved house, or got a new cat, we would put "butter on their "paws", so in they wouldnt wander away. My theory was ,it took them quite a while to clean away the butter, it was pleasant to take, and outside on footpaths, it took longer to dissolve.the cats would concentrate on that area long after the butter has dissolved. Any thoughts???🐱
When I was a kid growing up, almost 80 years ago, we always put butter on the pawpads of our new kitties "so that they could find their way home again". It is a wonder we didn't all slip and slide on the sidewalk during new kitten time, so many people did it! Of course felines are very intelligent and would likely have been able to find their way home without a treat on their paws, but they tolerated this odd human behaviour. 😽
Of course your beloved furry friend will live much *much* longer if you don't let it outside at all, and these days it is often against the law to let your cat go outside. So no more slippery, buttery sidewalks. 😻
@@ethicscannie5716 Haha your comment really made me smile. ☺ Thank you for the smile. 😻❤
We all bond with our two cats in different ways. My son is 5 and he feeds them dry food in the morning and evening, and plays with them. One of the cats behaves like they're brothers and will watch tv with my son, watch him play with legos, follow him around the house, and sleep with him. My husband feeds the cats wet food and calls them home in the evening. I train the cats and the other cat prefers my cuddles. They learned to sit down on command, get on back two legs, turn around, and lay down.
Thanks so much!
"It has to be on their terms." That's a key - you can't force it. Our little princess is sort of roommate. She has her own schedule and routine. She's mostly an outdoor kitty, but she likes to be close to us and we interact often on HER terms, and it works. When she's in the mood for play or petting, she lets us know and we happily oblige. But she's her own person...er, kitty...and we give her space.
The idea of "training" her: LOL. OTOH, she's been training us for over a year, and she's done a great job. ;)
I'm a lifelong dog person who is as an adult learning to speak cat. My former neighbor's cat adopted me not long after she got him, largely because I had a yard where he could hide under the bushes and play in the grass. So the bit about a cat being more loyal to a location than a person definitely spoke to me. I think I'm mostly doing well on this list, but I wonder, if I can't touch-a da belly, how am I supposed to brush the cat's belly? (Really, I could be doing better at cat brushing in general without the cat getting irritated with me, but the belly brush is a particular challenge.)
If that cat still belongs to your neighbor, you unfortunately need to do less with that cat, including no feeding, brushing etc,( i guess unless your neighbor has okayed it), otherwise kitty might break up with his owner and decide you are his new owner since your yard is already his territory
Perhaps you can just _gently_ introduce the brush to kitty. Some cats actually don't even like brushing. All of mine except one did; but it's not uncommon to hear people say their cats don't like to be brushed. I think you're probably doing better than you think you are! 🙂 It's not that you're _never_ supposed to touch their bellies; some cats ( like the one I have now! ) don't even MIND if you touch their bellies. Some cats (like his *sister* who is also part of the "package" for lack of better words right now lol), _doesn't_ like to be petted or touched on her belly; unless she "okays" it first; and even then, sometimes she'll get a little "feisty" about it. But she's feisty in general. They were both *feral* but she's the one who seems the most "feral" aka wild, of the two of them. The boy is a little snuggle bug and will tolerate just about anything; he likes to sleep with me every night; and his catnip-filled banana of course! 😂 If the cat seems irritated with you touching its belly, just back off of that for the moment; and let it call the "shots." Cats, in general, own *us* - not the other way around, unlike with dogs 😂 It's just what comes with the territory of cat "ownership..." LOL. Check out Jackson Galaxy videos; they will enlighten you a great _deal_ on how to interact with kitty!!! And you can also try spraying objects you would like the cat to "warm up" to ( beds, brushes, etc ) with catnip-spray; you can buy it on Amazon, and I'm sure, many pet stores sell it!! Good luck and don't be too hard on yourself; you're learning and from what I can tell, you're doing a fine job so far!! 😃❤ Happy Holidays!!!
This cat feels that you are a cat person too. It is an honour. Every cat ist unique, be curious what this cat likes.
My young cat has a bond with the first toy I brought home with him. A rescued kitten, he was pretty wild. Now when he wants to play he drags that toy out to me, even though he prefers other toys for the actual fun. I am well trained. He keeps me active and laughing every day.
"I am well trained." Aren't we all??? 😂 But we adore our tiny little slave-masters so much, don't we?? 😅😻❤
Food and respect! Dont force them to do stuff or do things they obviously dont like and associate yourself with food! I love kitties and 1000% have bonded with mine!
My cat loves the wire toys attached to the pole with a little bee on the end of the wire. Something about the way it moves must simulate prey because he goes nuts. Then when he catches it he walks away with it in his mouth lol.
I know that walk. it's the walk of a pure hunter's pride.
Lol, my kitten does that same. She catches the toy and walks away with it. I have to let go of the stick so she can drag it away.
I LOVE it when they do that!
Wait, now I’ve got to know what toy you’re talking about!? I’m trying to picture it, but I can’t please help!
My cat does the same thing! We think it's hilarious that he takes us for walks😂
A community cat I’ve bonded with likes to hang out in a local shop . There it finds a nice safe space tucked away from the patrons which come in and out. However, when the cat hears my voice, I hear its collar bell tinkling and it will come to greet me with usually a meow, rubbing against my legs, then kind of leaning its hips against one of my legs while its tail will hook on my leg. This cat loves to have its ears, face, and head rubbed. Every couple of days I take it a Ciao Churo treat which it really enjoys.
I've seen videos where owners are petting their cat in a way the cat enjoys but if they keep doing it too long the cat gets annoyed, especially true if the person has their attention focused on something else and is kind of mindlessly petting over and over in the same spot. The human is distracted and then bam, the cat reacts in a not so good way.
This can happen for sure. It's important to be present when we engage with our cats and to look out for any signs they have reached their contact threshold. Otherwise be warned you may get swiped at !
My cat loves to be carried around in the apartment, specially after I come back from work. I call it her “sightseeing her domains” 😊
Thank you Dr. Wooten for this great information.
No...it's not.
None of this would good info. I can't say that I'm a doctor but I'm a cat rescuer and have worked with them all my life. Absolutely disgusted by some of her suggestions.
I had a very special bond with my 2nd cat with my family. I was the first person that met him when he was a cute stray cat. I was the only one that he trusted me in belly rubs on my belly. I used a gentle force to made him to laid on my belly for the belly rubs and even kisses on his head. He just melted into me. He also let me hugged him on the floor while I was laying with him in my arms. I didn’t played with him that much. He did played with the 1st cat inside the house. This cat was a big lover. He loved to be petted by multiple of hands. My favorite memory of him was at the vet mobile in the early 90’s. I even held him and petted him to be calm during that visit. He was on the chubby side but, he was a big kitty cat. His weight was 20 pounds for the longest time. I never remembered in petting him the wrong way. He was one of a kind for a cat. My 1st cat hated to be petted on his tummy. He did kicked my hand away and a few minutes later he did gently bite me. My 2nd cats was very strange one but, he was almost liked having a dog around. Some kitties do liked their belly rubs. I even had this cat that my sister gave me before moving towards Orlando back in late March 1999. I even helped her in raising him from kitten towards adult cat. Luckily that cat knew me. He even gotten settled really quickly in my apartment. I used to give him a little bit of belly rubs while I was holding him in my arms on my love seat while watching television. Even he did give me kisses on my right ear which it did tickled by his tongue. Even cats do responds to their names when calling on them.
I tamed a wild cat some weeks ago... Now she comes 2 a day for a visit, hugging and petting included. When feeding her, I sit besides her, petting her, in the small pauses. I also whisper to her, mostly all the time I am close to her. When I call her, she comes to me and she hunts treats, I throw out for her as well. I suggest slow movements (!), always advise your cat, when you are moving and never talk loud or scream at her! Slow blinking helps too... Kind regards from Germany
Great video 🙏🏻 but two things were totally different with my cats: 1. they both loved to be petted on their bellies, for ever! And 2. one of them lived for over 20 years and when she was 18 I moved to another city, away from her familiar habitat. She actually enjoyed the new place way more (less high ceilings) and adjusted within days. Maybe because I was travelling with her starting when she was a kitten. From my experience when you bond very early, they're never grumpy or even aggressive. 😻
My Harley (she's about 1 year old) loves chasing after treats. We pick bouncy ones, like greenies and throw them across the room for her to chase around. We call it a Snack Attack. As soon as you open the bag, she's ready to pounce.
I'm still trying to figure out how to get my cat to not be afraid of me. I got him from a shelter 6 months ago. He hides a great majority of the day and mostly comes out to eat & use the litter box at night. I don't bother him but I do talk to him even though he's hiding. When he does come out and I happen to go through the room he's in he goes back to his hiding spot. I put treats out for him that's across the room from his hiding spot. I tell him to come get his treats and of course, shake the treat container a little so he can hear that. He won't come out and eat them until I leave the room. I feel so sorry for him.
Just give him time. Maybe put a few treats down just in front of his hiding spot and then back up and give him space. That way he can stick just his head out to get them so he still feels safe and can adjust to your presence. Also if you can, ignore him when he is caught out. It will make you seem like less of threat.
@@christinaclark9754 Thanks. I've been putting treats out every day, farther and farther away from his hiding spot for 7 months now, and he's been coming out to get them. He's staying out of his hiding spot more and more. I'm happy with his progress although it's slow.
If you do not watch already look for Jackson Galaxy tips. He recommends giving space, but pushing their comfort level slightly over time so they build trust. He's on RUclips. Did well for my shy kitty.
My two Bengals definitely are bonded deeply with humans, over any territory. It helped so much when we moved because they would follow me around on ever widening walks until I was sure they had the area mapped and wouldn't get lost.
Throwing the kibble is a great idea as play and exercise, thanks
once again thank you Dr. Sarah for sharing your expertise!
We have such a cat - we thought he was abandoned when the owners moved, but maybe he was just attached to the certain place. One day a fluffy big cat just started sleeping in our garden under a hay. I thought he was sleeping while his owners were at work, so decided that maybe cat gets hungry so i feed him. First he was scared of me, after i fed him he started coming to me. After enquiring around I found out he did not have owners, so we re taking care of him. Very nice cat but requires much more care than my own 2 cats because he is fluffy and he also has hiv.
Thks for this video! I just love my 4 cats! Each are different yet similar. Very affectionate. I am quiet with them and respond according to their individual ways/patterns. I think that they recognize my respect for them. My cat Babe is a real sweetie, and she gives me ‘love bites’. She never does scary hard bites.....and I understand her way of loving. I do not require her to.....accept excessive attention. She just likes....’being nearby’. She talks to me. She was feral for 3 years, before. The others are sweet and uniquely loving as well. I make chicken veggie broth to put on their food. I subscribed. Ahna
Yes. I think you nailed it with needing to be quiet and respectful in responding to their individual ways. My two cats, also feral at the outset, who have since become so loving and sweet, are very very different. The boy when he sleeps, is a cuddlebug; but when he's awake...watch out‼😂 He can be a terror sometimes hahaha! (Nothing terrible; just ordinary kitty shenanigans lol. But he's crazy at times! LOL). My girl kitty, also feral and his littermate aka sister, is much quieter...and *doesn't* like loud crazy goings-on and lets you know it, if anything offends her sensibilities haha. She's a sweetheart. They both are. But they are like polar opposites. I let their *purrsonalities* dictate how I interact with them, too. I think that's the way to go...not just with cats; but with any animal - or anyone! 😃🥰❤
My baby was an orphaned baby, lived with someone else for six months before I got her. She's never liked to he held, and it took her a little bit to seek me out for anything other than food. Now she be wants to be close for about 80 percent of the time with s mid Day nap off by herself, and private time in her window. But she's never taken food from my hand. She prefers I either toss it for her to chase, or just set it on the floor/her plate. If she hurries away from me several feet when I get the jar, she wants me to throw it. If she sits at my feet or at dish.. and she used to like a small piece of cheese or deli meat every once in a while but not as she's gotten older. I want a tree for her but y apartment is so very small.. do you have any thought in a set of a few wall shelves and a little hideaway on the wall so she can go higher up?
I teach a lot of tricks to my cat (clicker training). She loves it. It's easier than I tought and the more I teach her, the faster she learns. I also trained her to be more patient with food and treats, to come to me when I call her and to stay at her place when I ask her to. She also does some parkour. I make her jump on the furniture, on her tree and make her come down and then jump again... I do it at least twice a day, more if I feel that her energy level is high. She is a very stressed cat and I can see it is really helping her. She's almost 2 years old, been with me for 10 months. Took her at a shelter. She was agressive at the beginning and had trust issues. Now, I can pet her, take her in my arms, she spends the night with me and she is more and more affectionate. 🥰 It's worth it.
What about a older cat that is 15 yrs old and has sight problems?
I do watch what my girl likes and give lots cuddles on her terms.
I also don't give her the full run of the house at nighttime, she comes to bed with me and has access to the spare room, next door over from mine, last time she had the whole house she got confused and peed in the doorframe from lounge to hallway...
Never get upset, smile get the wet vac out and clean it, she forgot the tray in the Lounge.
LOVE your cats, they are limited time only, I have 15 yr old girl and she should be good for another 5 yrs all going well......
I do everything I can to keep her happy....
Would like to know more caring for much older cats....
Always good and interesting new things to learn from this wonderful lady...thank you again!
Another thing cats like to do is check what you are doing! 😅 My cat is the typical curious cat that has to be in on every and any project I do 😁 Even now having moved to the countryside, and her being outdoors. If I start some project she will come over to investigate 😅
This is why my ozzy is so different on my days off. Omg this opened up so much
I have had a lot of cats over my life and every one of them has loved belly rubs. I mean they would all come to my and roll on their backs and demand them. It seems alien to me that most people don't have that with their cats. Even the feral boy I rescued who was completely wild and would attack if you looked him in the eye once he learned to trust me and decided to adopt me and become a house cat would ask for them. Love your videos always full of interesting info.
I know what you mean. Every time I hear it I'm like, not my kitties. I girl kitty ever night has to have full belly rubs, chin to bug, and if I don't she drives me nuts until I do it. My boy isn't as abscessed but still asks for them often.
Such an important video. Cats are animals who live in their bodies, not their minds. They want to run, jump, hide, and PLAY!! Thank you for this important message!
My cat only hates me when I take her to the vet! I have had her since she was a baby. I had to bottle feed her. She's going on 5 years old now.
Very intelligent cat. She's very talkative but don't like cuddles.
My cat loves to chase the kibble, or even better, her favorite, freeze-dried chicken treats. I also hide it and put it in various spots and up higher to encourage her to jump. Also, long thick strings make her crazy, playing chase (she likes me to chase her), running through boxes open on both ends, and the little go-cat bee toy.
I make up a melody/song for each of my cats, that is about only them. It can be sung as a lullaby with soothing words, or the melody can use impromptu words that fit a specific situation. "David, David the cat. I love you but get out of my way or I'll vacuum your tail!" is a recent aria. Each cat recognizes their melody, and enjoys being called to supper with their special song.
Very good video for all cat owners, especially first time owners!
We lucked out both of our cats female 19 months old and male 10 months old love belly rubs. They literally flop in front of us no matter where we are; on the couch, on the bed or standing in the kitchen stretched out belly exposed until they get their belly rubs. We rub their bellies back and forth like you would a dog and they love it.
I swear they were raised by dogs because they absolutely love their bellies rubbed.
I had a really special bond with a beautiful lilac point Siamese. He would follow me everywhere, sleep next to me every night. Ride on my shoulders, and gently nibble at my toes if I didn’t give him enough love. I could hold him, flip him, chase him, the trust between us was pretty amazing.
If I went on trips, he would get separation anxiety. Wouldn’t, eat, wouldn’t go to the restroom, so I made the mistake of trusting a boarding clinic to assure he was being monitored and loved.
His health declined so rapidly (he was extremely healthy and only 5), he died almost immediately after bringing him home (the clinic was extremely neglectful. I’ll absolutely never forgive myself) I miss him so much, not sure I will ever have a bond like that again. A part of me died with him. I’m so deeply lonely, and miss him more than I’ve ever missed anyone/anything. He was extremely precious to me.
I REALLY LOVE MY TUXEDO KITTEN 🥰 AND SHE LOVES ME🌹👋🏼😃
I always say one of the main reasons I love cats more is because when they love you, you really earned that love lol most dogs who don’t have trauma I feel like love or trust anyone easily (not to say they don’t bond and have deep love for certain people of course)
My cat loves going outside daily. He doesn't use the litter box anymore.. he prefers to do his business outside. but when he's home he's either sleeping, eating, or getting massages.
Thank you for the idea of throwing treats as play. I don't know why I didn't think of this sooner. My one male cat just doesn't like most toys except mice with beans in them. He doesn't fetch but he will occasionally bring me one as a present. He holds them in his mouth and yowls as he walks with them. lol I did the treat throw play with him just now and he seemed to enjoy it, so I will continue this. I promise to be careful with how much I give him because he is a little chunky and I am trying to slim him down.
My cat is my EVERYTHING! ❤️
This was so insightful. I learned so much, saved this for future reference. Thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge. I really appreciate your approach, putting the cat's needs first and meeting them at their level.
Thank you so much.