Cats are sensitive animals, they can potentially be stressed by what a human considers a joke, by trying to tease them. Should we therefore stop teasing our cat, for fear that it will develop a fear of humans? Answer.
Do cats like to be teased?
To consider that a cat may or may not like to be teased is anthropomorphic, it is a point of view that models human feelings on the animal. Cats do, in fact, have a different cognitive process than humans, and it is important not to attribute human reactions and behaviors to them. “, recalls Laura Burlot, feline behaviorist for La Voix du chat.
« Cats may not understand gestures made to tease them, and it may be perceived as a threat.. ” she continues. ” It is a solitary species, less well-equipped with means of communication than humans.. And cats don’t have our sense of humor. »
How do cats react to teasing?
« Like any living and sensitive being, each cat has its own temperament, its own experiences, and reacts uniquely to situations. But teasing a cat, even in a light way, can trigger unexpected reactions, it can start to attack or flee, even outside the moments when you are teasing it ” explains Laura Burlot.
Playing pranks on your cat, such as pulling its tail, scaring it, or tickling it against its will, can make it nervous, create significant discomfort, and generate stress. The cat may then perceive these actions as a threat, and start behaving aggressively in response, or even going to the bathroom outside the litter box. Prolonged stress can cause health problems in your cat, affect its quality of life, and even harm your relationship.
Can my cat be afraid of me if I tease him?
« If the teasing is too frequent or too intense, your cat may become afraid of you.. ” answers the behaviorist. ” When you tease your cat, he may come to anticipate your actions as a threat, and this creates an unpredictable, even insecure, environment for him.. »
To avoid jeopardizing your relationship with your cat, it is therefore better to limit yourself to harmless games or caresses. This will prevent your animal from becoming distant, hiding from you, or becoming aggressive to defend itself. Trust between a cat and its owner is very important.
To maintain this and generate positive reactions, always respect his personal space, use toys to have fun with him rather than your hands, encourage quiet moments and observe his body language. If your cat folds back its ears, wags its tail rapidly, or goes into a defensive posture, stop what you are doing immediately. “, recommends Laura Burlot.
Even though teasing your pet may seem like fun, it’s best to refrain from doing so and focus on other interactions!
Source: www.topsante.com
