Act When Meeting a Strange Cat

Cats are cute but can be unpredictable, particularly if you don’t know them. It’s important to respect the space of a new animal you are meeting for the first time. By creating a good first impression, interacting with the cat in a deliberate way, and reading the cat’s body language, you can have the best chance of a successful meeting with a new cat.

Steps

Creating a Positive First Impression

1. Minimize loud noises. Cats don’t enjoy loud or surprising noises. Try to minimize loud sounds when you enter the cat’s space for the first time. If you have crinkly shopping or grocery bags with you, for example, leave them outside, so you don’t frighten the cat.
2. Remove your shoes, if appropriate. People tower over cats, and sometimes a cat may get underfoot by accident. If appropriate, remove your shoes so you don’t risk stepping on the cat’s tail. Some shoes, particularly high heels, make loud sounds when you walk. Removing them will also help keep the environment quiet and stress-free for the cat.
3. Avoid eye contact with the cat. Direct eye contact can be intimidating for cats or even be interpreted as a sign of aggression. Avoid looking directly at the cat, and instead ignore them when first entering their space.
4. Ask the owner if their cat is typically friendly to strangers or not. The specific cat’s temperament will play a large part in whether they want to interact with you or not. If the owner is around, ask them if their cat is typically friendly or if they prefer their space.
   • You could say, “I love cats. Is your cat usually interested in meeting new people?”

Interacting with the Cat

1. Let the cat approach you first. It is best to meet the cat in an open space, so they don’t feel cornered by you. Don’t move towards the cat, particularly not in a way that would make it feel trapped, for example if it is in an enclosed cat carrier. While it can be tempting to approach the cat, try to let the cat make the first move.
   • You may notice that the more you ignore the cat, the more curious they are about you.
2. Get down on the cat’s level physically. Once the cat shows some interest by approaching you, get lower to the ground so you are not hovering over the cat. Try sitting cross-legged on the ground, so you are physically less intimidating. Cats are small creatures; the smaller you can make yourself, the better.
3. Present an open hand or extend something you’re wearing. If the cat approaches you, try to let the cat become acquainted with your smell. Extend your open palm so the cat can smell you and become familiar with you. If the cat shrinks at your hand, you can try extending something you’re wearing, such as your glasses.
4. Try to pat the cat’s chin or cheeks. If the cat seems curious and receptive to your hand, attempt to scratch their chin or cheeks. These areas contain scent glands that release calming pheromones when rubbed. Most cats also enjoy being petted on these parts of the body.
   • If the cat begins to purr or rub on your leg, that is a positive sign. Don’t try to pick up the cat or place them in your lap.

Reading the Cat’s Body Language

1. Avoid petting a cat with its ears back. When a cat puts their ears back it means they are scared. A cat with its ears back may act out physically and scratch or bite if approached. Don’t attempt to pet a cat further if they suddenly put their ears back while you are petting them.
2. Avoid petting a cat if its tail is fluffed and straight up. When cats feel intimidated, they fluff up their fur so they seem larger than they actually are to potential challengers. They may even put their tails straight up. These actions mean the cat’s fight-or-flight response is engaged. Don’t try to touch or approach a cat if they are exhibiting this behavior, as they may bite or scratch you.
3. Reward a cat that rolls over and exposes their belly. If a cat rolls over and exposes their belly, this means they feel comfortable being vulnerable with you. You can take this as a sign that the cat is enjoying being petted, as this is submissive behavior. You can continue petting the cat’s face or even try petting the cat’s back. Listen for purring to confirm that the cat is still enjoying your touch.
   • Even if a cat exposes their belly, that does not mean that they want to have their belly rubbed. Most cats don’t enjoy having their stomachs touched, so it is best to avoid this.
4. Recognize signs of distress or Illness. When cats are sick they will cough, sneeze and may vomit, just like us. If the cat is exhibiting these signs and seems to be hiding in a small space, they may be sick. If the owner is available, let them know so they can contact a veterinarian. Do not attempt to pet this cat.
   • If the cat is a stray, and you are concerned for its wellbeing, contact a local rescue group. They can give your further instruction on how to proceed.

Warnings

• Do not sneak up on a cat.
• Have care approaching cats that are sick, injured, or otherwise in distress. They may lash out, even if you're trying to help.
• If a cat hisses, it is telling you to keep your distance. Move out of the cat’s space and ignore it for the time being.

Related Articles

• Pet a High Strung Cat
• Approach a Stray Dog
• Get Your Cat to Stop Hissing
• Help Pet Shop Bettas

Sources and Citations

See also

• Get Your Cat to Purr
• Understand Your Cat's Behavior
• Bond With Your Cat
• Apologize to a Cat
• Communicate with Your Cat
• Get Your Cat to Know and Love You
• Earn the Trust of a Stray Cat

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