To scruff or not to scruff? How to hold a cat

Updated 21/11/2023

We animal lovers are all the same - when we see a cat, we want to pick up a cat. It’s only natural. Knowing how to hold a cat so that it's comfortable and feels supported is important for all kinds of cat care. Not only is this a great tip on becoming their favorite person, it means you can keep your kitty feeling safe and secure in their home while putting their needs first.

Here are our tips on how to pick up a cat, when to hold a cat, and body language to always be aware of and to look for.

Do cats like to be held?

Many pet parents will already know this, but only some cats like to be held and even those purr-balls have a limit as to how often and when. Every cat is different - some don’t like being held at all and never will. Other kitties may insist on you picking them up regularly! Remember, whatever your cat’s purr-eferences, as cat carers we must always respect their furry space.

As a pet parent, you will always put a cat’s needs first when it comes to cuddle time. Yes, this can seem like a very difficult thing to do at the time - when they’re looking as cute and snuggly as they do, sometimes you can’t help but want to show them how much you love them. However, you can do this without having to pick them up.

A hand sniff, a scratch behind the ear, or a cheeky treat (in moderation) is more than enough for a cat to know you love them. Even just a few minutes of playtime can mean the world to them. Sometimes snuggles are the last thing on your feline’s mind and it’s always best to let them make the first move when it comes to hugs and cuddles.

How to properly hold a cat

Of course, there is a wikiHow on how to properly pick up a cat, but it’s always best to take the advice of a vet. Dr Jane Cutler, an expert on cat behavior and welfare, “You want to make sure that your cat feels supported when holding them, so try not to let their legs dangle if holding them in your arms.” 

If your cat is happy to be picked up - they’re showing signs of affection like leg rubbing or they’re pawing at you - this is how you go about holding a cat. Gently lift your cat behind its front legs with your dominant hand whilst cradling it behind with your other hand to move it into the crook of your arm. Use your dominant hand like a kitty seat belt to hold them against you. 

Your cat will quickly tell you if they’re unhappy with the situation. If any signs of growling or discomfort, don’t ever drop your cat, instead, carefully place them back on the ground on all four paws.

Never hold a cat older than 12 weeks old by the scruff (the loose skin around their necks). As kittens, the Mom cat will pick up her babies with her mouth by their scruff to move them. Once they’ve grown up, their scruff should be left alone and you should avoid doing it to young kittens whenever possible. ‘Scruffing’ any cat can be painful and very stressful for them and there are much better ways to hold cats.

Lastly, there will be occasions where you’ll need to hold your furry friend for medical reasons, like giving them a pill or trimming their claws - two things most cats will dread. Be sure to take the time to make them feel safe and comfortable with positive reinforcement. Make sure the handling continues to make them feel supported whilst you try to help them, and only hold them for as long as they need to be held.

Body language to look out for before attempting to hold them

According to petMD’s feline-friendly Veterinarian, Dr Julie Lui, you can tell if your cat is enjoying the cuddle from these few bits of kitty body language:

• Your kitty has a soft expression, is slowly blinking at you with almond-shaped pupils, and their ears will face forward
• Their muscles feel relaxed in your arms, their tail are moving slowly and lazily, and they aren’t struggling

Do note that purring does not always mean they’re happy. Some kitties use purring to comfort themselves if they’re stressed or feeling ill. Know your cat, if they always purr when you pet them, it’s safer to presume your kitty is content.

On the flip side, don’t attempt to pick up your cat, or gently put them down on the ground if you are holding them, if you see any of these bits of body language:

• Your cat is crouched low on the ground and is shying away from you
• Their fur is standing up, their tails are puffed up, or they are twitching or swishing their tails about
• If you hear any growling coming from them
• Your kitty has fully dilated pupils or very thin pupils, both are a sign of fear
• When holding a cat, it starts to wiggle and escape

Cats can become aggressive if they feel threatened by being made to do something they don’t want to do. If you need to give them some medicine, always be patient and take your time to calm them.

Meet our veterinary expert, Aisling

This article has been checked by veterinarian Aisling O’Keeffe MVB CertSAM ISFMCertAdvFB. Aisling qualified as a vet 7 years ago from University College Dublin. She has worked in a mixture of UK small animal hospitals along with Irish practices. She worked for 3 years in a feline-only hospital where she further developed her feline medicine and surgery skills. She currently lives and works in a small animal hospital in Cork, Ireland.

If you’re ever unsure about how to pick up a cat or you’re worried about your cat’s body language, TrustedHousesitters members can always call our 24/7 vet advice line. For cat carer members, why not find other feline fanatics who know all about holding cats properly, check out the latest cat sitters near you.