ETIQUETTE
Rules &
Rules are no fun. But are necessary to keep you and our kitties safe!
We understand that you may have cats at home and you may know how to interact with them. We ask that you please freshen up on your cat etiquette and review our Cat Lounge rules to ensure the safety of visitors and our cat crew! Below are some tips about approaching a cat, cat body language and the rules to be followed during your visit.
The CAT HANDSHAKE
Get On their Level
Humans are quite a bit larger than cats and standing over them can easily intimidate them.
To make them feel comfortable, crouch down or sit on the floor to make yourself smaller and more approachable.
Present your hand & allow the cat to sniff you
Cats learn a lot about other cats and humans through smelling them. This helps the cat get used to your scent and more comfortable with your presence.
Let the cat initiate
Once the cat is finished sniffing you, typically they will start to rub their face on your fingers and hands. This means they are accepting you and is a good time to start slowly petting them.
Introduce Play
Once you have introduced yourself and the cat has accepted your introduction, you can start to implement play. As the cat interacts with you, the more comfortable the cat will become. They may even curl up on your lap for a nice, long nap!
CAT BODY LANGUAGE
Peering over the shoulder shows interest.
A tail that sticks straight up signals being friendly.
Sitting straight with tail in front indicates attentiveness.
Lying down carelessly indicates being relaxed.
Lying on the back, exposing the tummy indicates trust.
Slow blinks show the cat is content and comfortable.
Sleeping next to you indicates the cat likes and feel relaxed.
A stiff body with rotating ears means being cautious or conflicted.
Reaching or batting at things indicates the cat is feeling playful.
Scratching, stretching and meowing indicates excitement.
Rubbing against things means it's marking it's territory.
Ears that are pressed back displays being anxious.
Crouching on the floor shows predatory mode.
Tucked body and tail indicated feeling worried or anxious.
Tucked body and tail with pressed back ears, the cat wants to escape and hide.
Loud meowing and aggressiveness means the cat is feeling threatened.
Arched back and flattened ears shows being terrified.
Poofy tail, flat ears, and loud meowing means the cat is super terrified and feeling threatened.
Wagging or "whipping" the tail indicates irritation.
Turning the head or walking away indicates being disgusted.
