Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Why Do Cats Like to Be Petted? 4 Vet-Reviewed Reasons for This Behavior

Written by: Emma Stenhouse

Last Updated on January 23, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

a woman's hands petting a cat

Why Do Cats Like to Be Petted? 4 Vet-Reviewed Reasons for This Behavior

VET APPROVED

Dr. Marta Vidal-Abarca Photo

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Marta Vidal-Abarca

Veterinarian, BVSc GPCert (Ophthal) MRCVS

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Learn more »

The personalities of cats can vary widely, but one thing that they all enjoy is being petted. Some cats will happily accept a tickle under the chin from everyone, while other cats won’t approach anyone other than their very favorite person.

But why do cats like being petted? Let’s take a look at the four main reasons.

cat face divider 2

The 4 Reasons Why Cats Like to Be Petted

1. You’re Giving Them Attention

We know that some cats like to pretend that they’re all aloof and uninterested in what their human family members are up to, but we bet that some of them will run up for a cuddle when they think that no one else is looking! Cats love attention from their owners, so whether that’s a brief stroke along their back as you’re putting down their food bowl or a full-on snuggle on the couch, petting your cat can make them feel loved.

a woman's hand petting a cat
Image Credit: Yerlin Matu, Unsplash

2. They’re Marking You With Their Scent

Cats have scent glands around their bodies, including:
  • The base of their tails
  • The corners of their mouths
  • Under their chins
  • On their cheeks
  • The base of their ears
  • On their temples

Cats will often rub these parts of their bodies against furniture, other cats, and humans, to mark them with their scent or pheromones. This creates a feeling of familiarity and security as your cat moves around their territory.

It’s no coincidence that the areas where cats have scent glands are also areas where most of them enjoy being petted.


3. It Reinforces Social Bonds

Affiliative communication, such as petting your cat, can help reinforce social bonds. Regular petting sessions let your cat know that they’re still a member of your “tribe,” and it can help them feel more confident and comfortable.

cat being petted
Image Credit: Paul Hanaoka, Unsplash

4. Petting Can Soothe Areas That They Can’t Groom

You might have watched your cat grooming their face, passing their paws over their cheeks and ears in an adorable attempt at cleaning themselves. But one area that your cat can’t reach easily is right on the top of their head. Being petted here can feel good, simply because it’s an area where your cat can’t scratch themselves.

Mother cats often lick the top of their kitten’s heads, so an owner emulating this can feel comforting to a cat, even once they’re fully grown!

3 cat face divider

The Best Way to Pet Your Cat

Not all cats like being petted in the same place or for the same amount of time. Some trusting and laidback cats will enjoy having their tummy tickled, but try this with another cat, and you may find them testing out their claws!

As a general rule, most cats enjoy being petted under their chin. Areas to avoid until you know a cat better include their paws, tails, whiskers, and tummies. Research has shown that most cats dislike being stroked around their tails and the base of it. These are all super-sensitive locations, so while some cats will enjoy being petted here once they trust you, it’s best to take it slow while you figure out exactly what your cat will and won’t tolerate.

Let your cat show you where they want to be petted! They may rub against your finger and direct it under their chin or over their ear. Allowing your cat to control their petting sessions can make them enjoyable for both of you.

Always give your cat the choice to walk away from being petted.

cat paw divider

Petting-Induced Overstimulation Aggression

On rare occasions, petting sessions may trigger something called “petting-induced or overstimulation aggression” in cats. Have you ever been petting your cat when suddenly, they go from enjoying themselves to attacking your hand, and you wonder what on earth just happened?

Petting is an intense sensation for cats. Your cat has gone past the point of enjoying being petted and into overstimulation. Each cat’s threshold will be different.

Signs that your cat is approaching overstimulation aggression include:
  • Small twitches at the end of their tail
  • Full tail flicks
  • Your cat suddenly moving away
  • Ears going back
  • Pupils becoming dilated
  • Your cat emitting a low growl
  • Their body becoming stiff

By carefully observing your cat’s behavior, you can soon start to notice the small signs that they’re becoming overstimulated, and you can end their petting session before this point. That way, your cat is far more likely to return for another soothing stroke as soon as they’re ready!

cat face divider 2

Conclusion

Cats like to be petted for myriad reasons, including attention and simply because it feels good. If your cat doesn’t seem to like being petted, you may be touching the wrong areas. Wait for a time when your cat seems relaxed, and try gently stroking under the chin. If they seem receptive, work your way to the top of their head—they may then try rubbing their face against your hand, a sure sign of enjoyment! Remember to always let your cat dictate the rules of the petting sessions, as this will help prevent overstimulation aggression and build a better bond between the two of you.


Featured Image Credit: biubiubiu23333, Pixabay

Get Catster in your inbox!

Stay informed! Get tips and exclusive deals.
Catster Editors Choice Badge
Shopping Cart

Pangolia

© Pangolia Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved.