Why Do Cats Like Being Pet – Bonding & Trust

A cat’s fur is so soft that you assume that petting is a cat is only making you happy. What you may not realize is that most cats like being pet too. You’ve probably never thought much about it yourself, but you should stop and ask yourself, why do cats like being pet? 

Cats like to be pet because it is a bonding experience. Petting is comforting to cats and also relieves itching symptoms. Cats like to be pet in some places more than others. 

If your cat enjoys being pet, then your cat may not care where you pet them. However, some cats prefer their chin scratched over their back or the base of their tail. Wherever you pet your cat, know that it is a bonding experience with your cat. Keep reading to understand why petting makes your cat so happy! 

Reasons Cats Like Being Pet

There are many reasons why cats like to be pet. Your cat may have additional reasons why he likes to be pet by you, but here are the top five most common reasons cats like to be pet. 

Petting Makes Your Cat Happy

Simply put, your cat may like being pet because it makes your cat happy. There may be no more profound reason for it than simply happiness.

Petting Reaches An Itch Your Cat Couldn’t

You may not do it on purpose, but petting could scratch an itch that your cat couldn’t stretch to get at himself. Your cat will be pleased to get some relief! 

It’s A Bonding Experience

There are many spots on a cat that have scent glands that you can pet. If your pet is around the glands on your cat’s chin and cheeks, it will be a bonding experience for your cat. Your cat will mark you with his scent. 

Your Cat Likes Attention

Petting is a form of attention. If you have an attention-hungry cat, then you’ll be giving your cat the attention he wants when you pet him. You may have to deal with a tired hand, though!

It Shows Your Cat You Care

Sometimes it may feel like you don’t know how to show your cat that you care about him, but petting is a great way to show your cat affection. 

What Do Cats Feel When You Pet Them

Cats feel happy and content when you pet them.

If you pet a cat that enjoys being pet, then the cat will feel so happy that he is getting attention and scratches from you. You may notice that your cat will start to relax and may even flop down on the floor at your feet. 

It’s hard to know precisely what cats think when you pet them, but your cat’s reaction will tell you enough about how your cat feels when you pet them. If you start to hear some purrs from your cat, then you know you’re doing a great job!

Why Do Cats Like To Be Pet Under Their Chin

Cats like to be pet under the chin because cats have scent glands under the chin.

The chin might seem like a strange pet for cats to like to be pet, but it makes a lot of sense. There are scent glands near a cat’s chin. Your cat uses these glands to mark you, even though you can’t smell your cat’s scent on you. Other cats can, though! 

If you want to make your cat extra happy, then scratch beneath their chin and up around their cheeks. That’s one way to become your cat’s best friend. 

Why Do Cats Like To Be Petted At The Base Of The Tail

The base of your cat’s tail is difficult to get to, so you are doing your cat a favor by petting your cat at the base of the tail.

When you see your cat twist all around, you would think that your cat could reach the base of his tail. It’s hard to get to for your cat. A cat that does manage to reach his tail may only be able to do so for a few seconds.

Petting your cat at the base of the tail may alleviate an itch that your cat couldn’t otherwise reach. Fleas will often run to the base of your cat’s tail to hide, so you really will be hitting that itchy spot! 

Why Do Cats Like To Be Pet On Their Lower Back

The lower back is yet another place that your cat has trouble reaching.

The lower back is difficult for cats to reach, just like the base of the tail. If you pet your cat’s lower back, you may also start scratching the base of your cat’s tail too. 

All of these places are doing your cat a big favor. 

Where Do Cats Like Being Pet The Most

Stroke your hand along your cat’s back because your cat likes to be pet there the most. 

You have many options when you start petting a cat, but the best place to pet your cat is along their back. The back is also a safe option if you are unfamiliar with the cat; while most cats like their chins scratched, there is also a chance you’ll be bitten!

Your cat’s back is a hard part for them to reach, so if you pet there, you could be itching a spot your cat couldn’t get to. That will go a long way in making your cat happy! 

How Do You Know If A Cat Wants To Be Petted

Cats will make it obvious if they want to be petted or if they want to be left alone. 

It’s essential to watch a cat’s reaction to know if a cat wants to be pet. If a cat is trying to get away from you when you try to pet them, you should understand that the cat does not want to be pet. 

On the other hand, if a cat comes up to you and rubs against your legs, then that’s a great way to know that they would like some attention. The cat may even seek out your hand and help you pet them.

How Often Should You Pet Your Cat

It will help if you pet your cat as often as your cat likes.

There is no golden rule to knowing how often you should pet a cat. The amount of petting is up to the cat, and each cat could be completely different. 

You will come across some cats who will want to be pet whenever your hand is free. Constant petting all day long may not be enough for these cats. Conversely, other cats may dislike getting pet. Even one quick pat may end up with you getting bitten or scratched. 

The best way to know how often you should pet your cat is by learning and understanding your cat’s personality. 

Final Thoughts

Petting your cat may lead to some unfortunate shedding, especially when the weather is getting warmer and your cat loses their winter coat. 

If you start to notice that petting causes your cat to shed, think about these options to keep your house looking clean:

• Brush your cat often. This will catch the hair before it falls. A long-haired cat needs to be brushed more often than a short-haired cat.
• Catch any hair that comes off your cat as you pet them. You might be tempted to brush it onto the ground, but it is better to toss it right in the trash.
• Vacuum and sweep regularly. You don’t want any kitty tumbleweeds floating around the house!
• Get your cat professionally groomed. Some people choose to shave their cat to keep the hair short.

Unfortunately, there’s no good way to completely stop your cat’s shedding unless you have a hairless cat. Shedding is just one part of being a cat owner. The best way to combat shedding is to keep on top of brushing your cat and cleaning up your house. 

If you have a shedding cat, make sure to keep a lint roller handy to clean off your clothing before you head out. Running a lint roller along your couch and other furniture will help keep it clean between vacuuming.