If you don't know cats, they can be unpredictable.For the first time, it's important to respect the space of a new animal.You can have the best chance of a successful meeting with a new cat by creating a good first impression, interacting with the cat in a deliberate way, and reading its body language.
Step 1: Don't make loud noises.
Cats don't like loud noises.When entering the cat's space for the first time, try to keep the noise to a minimum.If you have grocery bags with you, leave them outside so you don't frighten the cat.If you are bringing loud or rambunctious children into the house, be sure to ask them to be quiet or somewhere else where they can wait with a trusted adult.
Step 2: If it's appropriate, remove your shoes.
People tower over cats, and sometimes a cat gets knocked over.You don't want to step on the cat's tail if you remove your shoes.High heels make loud noises when you walk.The environment will be quiet and stress-free if they are removed.
Step 3: It's a good idea to avoid eye contact with the cat.
Cats can be intimidated by direct eye contact.Don't look at the cat, and ignore them when they first enter their space.
Step 4: Ask the owner if their cat is friendly to other people.
Depending on the cat's temperament, they may want to interact with you or not.Ask the owner if their cat is friendly or not.You could say that you love cats.Is your cat interested in meeting new people?
Step 5: The cat should approach you first.
The best place to meet the cat is in an open space.Don't move towards the cat in a way that would make it feel trapped, for example if it is in an enclosed cat carrier.Try to let the cat make the first move because it can be tempting to approach it.The more you ignore the cat, the more curious they are about you.
Step 6: Get down on the cat.
If the cat shows interest by approaching you, you should get down to the ground.If you want to be less intimidating, try sitting cross-legged.The smaller you can make yourself, the better.
Step 7: Extending something you're wearing is a good way to do that.
Try to let the cat get to know you.The cat can smell you if you extend your open palm.Extending something you're wearing is possible if the cat shrinks at your hand.
Step 8: The cat has a chin or cheeks.
If the cat is interested in your hand, try to scratch their chin or cheeks.These areas have scent glands that release calming pheromones when rubbed.Cats like to be petted on these parts of the body.If the cat rubs your leg, that is a positive sign.Don't put the cat in your lap.Don't touch the cat at the base of the tail or on the belly.
Step 9: Don't touch the cat with its ears back.
A scared cat will put their ears back.If approached, a cat with its ears back may act out.If a cat suddenly puts their ears back, don't try to pet them further.
Step 10: If a cat's tail is fluffed, don't pet it.
Cats fluff up their fur to make them seem larger than they are.They might put their tails straight up.The cat's fight-or-flight response is engaged.If a cat bites or scratches you, don't try to touch or approach them.
Step 11: Reward a cat that exposes their belly.
If a cat rolls over and exposes their belly, that means they feel safe with you.As this is submissive behavior, you can take this as a sign that the cat is enjoying being petted.You can even try petting the cat's back.You can confirm that the cat is enjoying your touch by purring.It doesn't mean that a cat wants to have their belly rubbed.Most cats don't like having their stomachs touched, so it's best to avoid this.
Step 12: There are signs of distress or illness.
Like us, cats cough, sneeze and vomit when they are sick.The cat may be sick if it is hiding in a small space.Let them know if the owner is available.Do not try to pet this cat.If the cat is a stray, you should contact a rescue group.Further instruction on how to proceed can be given by them.If you try to pet the cat, you may put yourself at risk of being bitten by the animal.