Does your cat prefer belly rubs? If so, why? Cats are very sensitive to touch, and they enjoy it when you touch and play with their abdomens. As long as your cat loves those rubs, chances are she’ll like that always but don’t betray her trust.
First, you should keep in mind that NOT all cats are like your cat, and most of them don’t like belly rubs? Sounds surprising? We will clear the confusion below.
So, why does your cat love belly rubs?
Many felines love this feeling, and it is a signal that they have full trust in you. Additionally, some kitties like a belly rub because it is playful and leads to relaxation. However, you need to be careful with belly rubs and should respect your cat’s limitations.
To further clarify the matter, let’s look at why some like belly rubbing and what’s the problem with those who don’t like belly rub!
Reasons Why does your feline loves belly rub?
Wants to Play:
Your fluffy pussy is fully charged and aggressive when she has its belly up. She can easily use all of its claws and her champers to fight with the prey in this position. Thus, when your cat rolls over on her backside and lightheartedly sways from side to side, it means she is ready to polish her hunting skills. She can also catch your hand and bite you while you are playing and giving relaxing belly rubs. This biting scene is rare but be cautious while doing so.
Its a matter of trust
Your cuddly feline’s belly is the most sensitive and vulnerable part of her body. When she moves over or on her belly and reveals her underside, she’s checking you what you will do, and it also means that she trusts you. Be grateful if you receive the honor of rubbing your cat’s belly. Cats only do this when they are perfectly relaxed, comfortable, and have no trust issues with you.
The feel is nice
Of course, your pet likes this wonderful feeling when you gently scratch her belly. If you don’t want to go deep in the matter, that’s the best reason for you.
However, if you want to dig deep, keep scrolling!
All cats have various sensors that make them to purr, such as the tail’s base, their chin, and obviously their belly area. But remember that kittens and their moms prefer this devotion on their terms and when they want.
So, watch out for the signs as they will indicate you when not to continue belly rub. If your cat points its ears toward her head or shows her teeth, move or pushes you, stop doing that; she is no longer enjoying it.
Itch and Scratch
It’s pretty much possible that while rubbing her belly, you are scratching its itch. Bug bites or ringworm are common and can result in severe irritation. Similarly, seasonal changes, shampoos, or even some cat food can cause skin allergies and itch in the cat’s belly. Scratching gives the cat relief, especially if you are hitting the target. That’s why Vets recommend while rubbing the pet’s belly, pay attention to red patches or patchy spots. If you feel anything suspicious, take your feline to the vet.
Why Does Your Pet Cat May Dislike Belly Rubs?
All pet lovers adore that feeling when a sweet kitty stretches full in front of the master, beautifully rolls onto her back, and stares at you with those desperate eyes.
In this seductive situation, anyone will naturally want to pat her belly, and then Ms. Feline suddenly turns on you with open claws or biting you forcefully with small but equally sharp teeth.
This is some unexpected and crazy action.
So, you need to know how to deal with this unpredictable kitty:
Here are some general tips that will allow you to manage such sudden actions. Although the tips are not surefire, but they will help you to make your cat feel more comfortable:
Tip #1: You need to admire the cat, especially when it lays on her back. By doing so, you can easily avoid its sudden movements, and it will put her on the defensive mode.
Tip #2: While rubbing the belly, don’t rush. Instead, gradually stroke her front paws while it is on her side or back.
Tip #3: If she doesn’t show any aggressive action, start petting her back paws but be gentle and slow. When you feel that she likes your gesture, you can proceed to her tummy.
Lastly, we will advise you that don’t feel offended if your cat doesn’t allow you to rub her belly. Remember that every cat is different, and like us, they also demand respect and have their boundaries.
Best ways to Introduce Your Cat to Belly Rubs:
Yes, you can train and teach your cat for belly rubs. Follow these hacks to do so:
Initially, try coupling with anything that pet enjoys and finds gratifying.
For example, most pet cats love when someone scratches their chin or back. If that’s the case, softly scratch her back or chin, and while doing so, touch her belly a few times with your other hand.
When your cat gets used to it and didn’t object, stop rubbing her chin or back and start rubbing her belly.
Similarly, repeat scratching her back or chin and rub the belly at the same time but only a few times in a week. Then gradually increase the frequency to check her tolerance level.
The other way to introduce your pet cat to the belly is by pairing the neck scratch and belly rub. This combo works most of the time and almost for all species.
Take start by slowly rubbing her belly when she is on her back and at the same time scratch her neck.
Cats love this feeling, but it takes time and during the course, if you feel that she doesn’t like that, stop doing it.
What cat breeds like belly rubs?
Cat’s breeds are different and have several unique traits. Some cats are energetic, some are relaxed, and some are not social, while some love to play with humans.
When it comes to belly rubs, the cat breed doesn’t matter much, but we will show you some species that are more loving than the others and don’t mind when someone gives them belly rubs.
Burmese: This cat breed is for children and seniors. Plus, they are playful and indoor-only cats. Usually, Burmese cats love belly rubs and like to flop on your legs for a belly rub.
Singapura: The Singapura cats are always high and don’t mind belly rubs. In fact, you can carry it on your shoulders. However, this cat breed is more playful into adulthood and goes well with kids.
Birman: This is the most common breed in the US, and you will find them in many homes. These are energetic, fits in well with seniors and kids. And yes, you can give them gentle belly rubs.
Manx: The most friendly cat breed for all, and they love cuddle sessions and warm kisses from adults and kids.
What does it mean when cats let you rub their belly?
The cat belly touch signals trust, in simple words. If your cat exposes its belly or asks for a rub, this is a clear indication that they like you and completely trust you.
However, for some cats, a tummy rub is a warm greeting sign or an affection. The gesture is rare, but it is a compliment from a cat to its master as the belly or stomach is the most sensitive part of the cat’s body.
Final Thoughts
For most cats touching or rubbing the belly is a tasty treat, while for a few, it is disrespectful. If you want to do so with your pet, the key is to be gentle, slow, and never upset your cat.
Please keep in mind that belly rubs are simply not enjoyable for a few felines, regardless of how hard you work. In such cases, we will advise you to build up your bond in other ways.
