This is the most important rule when visiting a house with cats

It is very important that even those who do not have a cat but often encounter the cats of their friends and family are aware of the needs of felines.

If you visit a friend who has cats, or if a friend visits you as a cat owner, it is important that the following cat rule is established.

Cats are not dogs

There is still a common misconception that cats are unpredictable, self-willed creatures. This idea probably stems from the fact that many people view cats as dogs. Thus, they expect the same behavior from them as from our barking friends. However, a cat expresses itself differently in many ways, and its needs are different. The main point is that a cat is a cat, and you must approach it as such. To do this, you need to understand their body language and habits. This is important even if someone does not have a cat, as they will almost certainly encounter them in their environment.

The No. 1 cat rule

If you have a cat, it is your responsibility to prepare your visitors on how to handle your pet. One of the most important cat rules is not to approach the animal aggressively.

When you arrive at a cat’s home, you are essentially intruding on their territory. Given that they are highly territorial animals, this is inherently very disturbing for them. If you then follow them around, loudly speaking, touching, or hugging them, it can be shocking for them. Of course, as in all areas, there are exceptions; some are more affectionate and friendly, which depends on breed and personality. But the basic rule is not to be intrusive with them.

Instead, you need to wait for the cat to relax. This may not happen the first time, and instead of getting to know you, the cat may retreat to the top of the scratching post or the bedroom. If it decides so, you must respect that.

Do not be misled by their curiosity!

It happens that the cat shows interest in an unfamiliar person, but curiosity is not an invitation to approach! Sometimes it wants to explore you but does not want you to approach it. If you enthusiastically start petting it, you can easily chase it away. If the cat starts approaching you, wait to see its intentions; if it just sniffs you and then moves away, it is not yet time for bonding. The stiff, sometimes trembling tail confirms that the cat is just investigating.

In such cases, let your hand hang loosely by your side so that the animal has the opportunity to make contact with you. When it starts rubbing, purring, and meowing at you, you can try petting it. Always touch the animal gently; they especially like the areas behind their ears and under their chin.

When they have had enough

It is also clear when the cat has had enough of the interaction. Their pupils dilate, their bodies become more rigid, they pull their ears back, their tails start to move tensely, and they try to move away. Needless to say, you must let them do so; otherwise, the encounter can easily end in scratching or even biting.

The cat rule is especially important for children

Always discuss the rules with children because they are the ones who, out of the greatest love and kindness, can overdo it in no time.

Tell the little ones that when the cat retreats or climbs up the cat tree, they should be left alone, as that is their resting place. Also, show them how to touch the cat properly, and always be present when they are getting to know your pet.

Make sure to also tell your visitors that sleeping cats should not be disturbed! They can react particularly badly to this – understandably.