Regular massages are a great way to build a better bond with your cat. Even timid cats can learn to better enjoy being with their owners while enjoying the sensual pleasure of being touched.
Before the Cat Massage
If your cat is naturally sociable and invites herself onto your lap then it is easy to begin her massage. Many cats, however, are more reserved and need to be persuaded to come and enjoy some time with you.
Talk gently to gain her confidence, and do not rush to pick her up. You may like to give her some long firm strokes either side of her spine before picking her up. Place her on your lap in any position which is comfortable for you both which allows you to easily stroke her back.
All cats will relax when you gently hold the loose skin of the top of the neck, just behind the ears. This is a natural reflex; kittens instantly stop moving when their mother gently picks them up in her mouth to carry them to safety. Do not try to pick up an adult cat in this way!
Beginning the Cat Massage
Enjoy a period of silent communication together while giving her long firm strokes along the length of her back. If necessary, gently hold the loose skin behind the ears with one hand while stroking her with the other hand.
Cat Massage Strokes
- Spine relaxer: Place your index and middle fingers either side of her spine just behind her ears, so you can feel her vertebrae between your fingers. Move your fingers in a gentle circular motion so that her skin moves a little over her spine; your fingers should not move over her skin as you circle. After a few seconds move both fingers a short way down her spine and repeat. Work down the length of her spine in this way.
- Leg soother: Gently hold the top of her back hip in your cupped hand between forefinger and thumb. Run your hand down her leg to the paw, always holding the leg firmly but gently in your cupped hand. Repeat several times and then massage her other rear leg. Careful of those claws! She may extend and contract them as she relaxes.
- Full back massage: Place a hand on each of her shoulders. Run one hand over one side of her body in a single, firm stroke. As you reach her thigh move your other hand down the other side of her body, whilst returning the first hand to its original position on the first shoulder blade. Repeat several times.
Communicating with your Cat
You will soon learn what your cat enjoys best as you should feel her relax and purr more over her favorite sensations. If she is initially unsure about a massage stroke then try to reassure her with gentle, reassuring words. Always touch your cat gently with steady movements. Avoid touching areas with a known injury or any other problem. If you have any doubts about massaging your cat consult your veterinary surgeon.
 |
