Newbie’s Guide to Petting Cats: How to Stroke Cats Without Getting Bitten!

Got scratched every time you touch a cat? Here’s pure干货 (practical tips) for newbie cat owners—teach you how to make cats purr and even chase you for pets!

When meeting a cat for the first time:

1. Offer a closed fist in front of the cat. If it doesn’t dislike you, it will rub its face against your hand.
2. Start with the chin (a high-contact area), then gradually move to other spots.

Never do these when petting:

1. Stretch out a full hand—cats may feel threatened.
2. Grab or hug them directly—some cats will panic and run away (or even lash out).

✅ Safe signs to start petting:

When the cat touches your finger with its nose, licks you, or rubs against you—these are friendly signals!

Correct petting spots (from safe to cautious):

• Head
• Chin
• Ears
• Cheeks
• Back
• Neck
• Base of tail (tail gland)
  ❓ Belly (only if the cat fully trusts you and shows no tension)

Stop petting immediately if you see these signals:

1. Ears flattened backward, pupils dilated
2. Fur standing on end
3. Sudden or excessive grooming (licking fur)
4. Tail twitching rapidly

Master these tips, and you’ll turn into a cat magnet! 🐾
Has your cat ever “scolded” you for petting wrong? Share your stories below!