A cat’s bottom is located just under its tail, and the tail of a cat is abundant in glands that secrete oils. If a cat has never been bathed, the base of its tail can easily develop folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles. When you touch a cat’s bottom, it’s inevitable that you might also touch its tail, causing the cat discomfort. Therefore, the cat might react aggressively towards you.
2. A Private Area
For cats, their bottom is a very private and sensitive area. Outside of their mating season, cats generally do not like others to touch their bottoms. So, as a pet owner wanting to pet your cat’s bottom, it’s advisable to be cautious, as it might lead to getting bitten by the cat.
3. A Cat’s Sense of Self-Protection
Cats are animals with a strong sense of self-protection. Some cats do not like their paws or noses to be touched, and others dislike having their bottoms touched. If someone touches these areas, it can instill a sense of fear in the cat. No wonder they might react aggressively under such circumstances.
4. ‘Don’t Touch the Tiger’s Tail’
There’s an old saying, ‘You can’t touch a tiger’s tail,’ and cats, being part of the feline family, share similar traits. They are often aloof and proud, and do not particularly enjoy being touched excessively.
When someone touches their bottom, they may feel attacked. This instinctual feeling can cause a cat to resist and retaliate. Therefore, it’s best for pet owners to touch these areas sparingly and always with the cat’s consent.
5. Lack of Familiarity
Some cats may react aggressively when their bottoms are touched simply because they are not familiar with the person doing the touching. To the cat, this can feel like an invasion of privacy, leading to a defensive reaction.
To earn the privilege of touching a cat’s bottom, one must build a bond with the cat. This can be achieved through spending quality time together and offering occasional treats. Once a cat is comfortable and trusts you, it’s less likely to react negatively to being touched.
Conclusion: What’s Your Cat’s Reaction When You Touch Its Bottom?
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