How to Safely Pick Up and Tame Cats for Kids
Learn the correct way to pick up a cat and build trust with your child, ensuring a stress-free experience for both.
1. The Proper Pickup Technique
When handling a cat, especially around children, it's crucial to support their body correctly. Use both hands to scoop them up, placing one hand under the cat's chest and the other under their hindquarters. This method ensures their spine is supported and reduces the risk of injury.
For a 6–20 lb cat, the support should be firm but gentle. Keep your movements slow and steady to avoid startling the cat. The height of the lift should be no more than 12 inches to prevent any accidental drops.
- Use both hands to scoop the cat, one under the chest and the other under the hindquarters.
- Support the cat's spine to prevent injury.
- Keep the lift height to 12 inches or less.
2. Building Trust with Clear Steps
To build trust, start by spending time with the cat on the floor. Let them come to you, rather than chasing them. This approach helps them feel secure and in control.
Encourage your child to sit quietly and offer gentle pets. Use a soft, slow stroke along the cat's back. This routine should be repeated daily for at least 10 minutes.
- Let the cat approach you on the floor.
- Spend 10 minutes daily petting the cat gently.
- Use soft, slow strokes along the cat's back.
3. When Not to Handle
It's important to avoid handling your cat during certain times to prevent stress. Never pick up a cat immediately after feeding, as they may be uncomfortable or sleepy. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating.
During shedding season, cats are particularly sensitive to handling. It's best to avoid picking them up for at least 2 weeks to let them shed naturally.
Cats need their rest, so never handle them while they are asleep or when they are stressed. If you're rushed, it's better to wait until you can give them your full attention.
- Avoid handling after feeding for at least 30 minutes.
- Do not handle cats during shedding season for 2 weeks.
- Respect a cat's need for rest and avoid handling when they are asleep or stressed.
4. Stress Signals to Watch For
Cats have subtle ways of showing stress. Look for flattened ears, a tucked-under tail, or a hunched body. These are signs that the cat is not comfortable with the situation.
If your child notices these signals, it's a clear sign to stop handling the cat. These stress responses are a natural instinct for cats and should be respected.
- Watch for flattened ears, a tucked-under tail, or a hunched body.
- Respect a cat's stress responses and stop handling if these signs are noticed.
Keep reading about Cat: Cat care sheet
Related questions
How often should I handle a cat to build trust?
Spend 10 minutes daily petting the cat gently to build trust.
What's the best way to support a cat's body during pickup?
Support the cat's spine by placing one hand under the chest and the other under the hindquarters.
How long should I wait after feeding before handling a cat?
Wait at least 30 minutes after feeding to handle a cat.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your cat is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.