Why Hugging Your Cat May Be Doing More Harm Than Good

Reported by Newsweek · July 26 at 5:00 AM · Summary by Pawdeck

A Newsweek piece argues that hugging a cat may feel restricting and stressful to the animal, even when the owner means affection. Dr. W. Chris Hummel, a veterinarian at Lovet Pet Health Care, says cats value the ability to escape, and that forced hugs can erode trust. The article suggests gentler bonding such as brushing, neck and ear scratches, and play.

Background

Cats are prey-aware animals that rely on the ability to move away quickly, so being held tightly can register as a loss of control. Many cats show affection through proximity, slow blinks, head bunts, or simply sharing a room, rather than through physical contact. Signs of discomfort often appear as tail flicking, ears turning back, or attempts to squirm away.

Why it matters

Knowing how cats read physical contact helps owners avoid stress and keep their cat's trust.

What you can do

Let your cat decide when to be close, and watch for tension, ear flattening or squirming before holding it. Try brushing or gentle scratches instead, and let your cat leave when it wants to.

Written by Pawdeck from the report by Newsweek. Background is general information, not advice about your pet; if you are worried, call your vet.