How to Get a Cat to Like You

• Set up a soft bed for your cat. You can buy a cat bed or make one yourself. Cats love boxes, so making a bed from a box with soft blankets or towels could be a great idea. Add your worn clothes to the bed to help the cat become familiar with your scent.
• Ensure that your cat always has a clean litter box.
• Create a space where your cat can play. For instance, you can buy a scratching post or a toy box where they can chew and chase, placing them in areas the cat can easily access in the house.
• Create a separate area for your cat to eat. This encourages your cat to eat in a designated space and reassures them that their food is always in the right place.

• Try feeding your cat at the same time every day so they develop a routine and seek you out when it's time to eat.
• Alternate between wet canned food to help your cat absorb more liquids and dry food. You can mix them or serve them in separate bowls.
• Provide a clean bowl of water for your cat every day, ensuring they always have access to fresh water.
• Many cat health experts recommend scheduled feeding times rather than free feeding to avoid overweight cats.
• It’s best not to feed your cat leftovers as they might upset their stomach.

• Don't give your cat too many treats. These are often high in sugar and could cause unhealthy weight gain. If you’re concerned about this, offer your cat a small amount of canned food instead.

• If you add a new cat to your household, buy an additional litter box that is the right size for your cat. This will reduce the chances of your cat avoiding the box due to the scent of another cat.
• A dirty litter box will make your cat reluctant to use it and sabotage your efforts to make them like you.
• If your cat suddenly avoids using the litter box, it's a sign that something might be wrong. Address the issue as soon as possible.
• Common reasons why a cat may avoid the litter box include: the cat hasn’t been neutered, the box size or type of litter is unsuitable, the cat is sick, there are other cats nearby, or the cat feels stressed and needs to mark its territory.
• If you can't clean the litter box regularly, consider investing in an automatic litter box that will clean itself after your cat uses it. These can be found at pet supply stores.

• If your cat is avoiding the litter box, it could indicate a urinary tract infection, and you should take your cat to the vet immediately.
• Like humans, dental issues in cats are serious and painful. Watch for signs of difficulty eating such as reduced food intake, weight loss, or chewing on only one side of their mouth.
• Cats also need regular vaccinations to protect against rabies and feline distemper (panleukopenia). Schedule regular vet checkups for vaccinations and general health assessments.

• Letting your cat groom or nap peacefully can help them trust and grow fonder of you, creating a deeper bond.

Pippa Elliott, licensed veterinary surgeon, explains: "Don’t overwhelm your cat. It’s best to wait and let the cat come to you instead of suffocating them with attention."

• Pet your cat gently and pick them up with care, remembering that they are much smaller than you.
• Don’t roughhouse with your cat or tug on their tail.

• You can train your cat to approach you when you call their name using simple methods.
• Never chase after your cat or shout at them. This will scare them, not just in the moment but also in the future.
• If your cat seems reluctant to approach, try luring them with treats or catnip.

• Lying down might encourage your cat to approach you more.
• Sitting on a chair can also be a good way for your cat to feel comfortable getting close to you.
• Since cats enjoy watching small animals, you can lie or sit next to a window. This will entertain the cat while you pet them as they observe the world.

• You can scratch behind your cat’s ears or any spot they enjoy, like their back, under their chin, or belly.
• Over time, you’ll learn where your cat prefers to be petted, and they may even come to you for attention.
• Always be gentle when petting your cat.
• Reward your cat with petting when they do something good, like using the litter box. Sometimes, petting them when you place their fresh food down will also build your bond.
• If your cat seems hesitant, extend your hand and let them sniff it. They might rub their face against your hand, signaling they enjoy the attention.
• If your cat enjoys it, let them nap on you while you pet them.

• Head-butting. This is a cat’s greeting. It stimulates the oil glands near their ears and leaves their scent on you. If your cat head-butts you, gently return the gesture.
• Showing their rear. Cats may present their backside to you and raise their tail. This means they want you, their human, to clean them. You can respond by gently blowing on their rear, which they will associate with their grooming routine.
• Scratching lightly on you. This is a sign of happiness and affection, as if your cat sees you as a mother. Let them do this as a way to relax and reinforce your bond.
• Licking you. Licking is how cats mark their territory and establish a scent among their group. When your cat licks you, it’s their way of claiming you as theirs, strengthening your connection.

• For example, if it’s almost mealtime and your cat starts meowing, you could ask, “Are you hungry, Sam?” and continue the conversation, as long as your cat keeps meowing.

• Offer your cat a variety of toys, including ones they can toss around on their own, toys that require your interaction, and hunting toys. Pet stores have a wide range of cat toys available.
• For toys that require your involvement, like those that need to be waved, talk to your cat and offer gentle praise as they play.
• Provide other opportunities for play. Place paper bags without handles or various boxes around the house to give your cat chances to explore.
• Create a “cat tree” near a window so your cat can sit and watch birds, squirrels, and other small animals.

• It may take a few days for your cat to approach you; don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen as quickly as you’d like.
• If you pick up or hug your cat, release them immediately when they want to get free. Holding a cat when they don’t want it can cause fear. When your cat knows you’ll let go when they squirm, they’ll trust you more.
• If your cat scratches you, wash the wound thoroughly with warm water and mild soap.
• If your cat hisses at you, leave the room until they calm down. If you must stay in the room, avoid looking at or touching the cat and maintain a safe distance to help them relax.
• Don’t play rough with your cat, as it could make them anxious and lead to sudden aggression.
• Don’t wake your cat when they’re sleeping.
• Don’t try to pick up your cat when they don’t want it. This can cause extreme stress for your cat.
• Try scratching your cat’s chin. Cats usually love this action.

• String toys and feathered toys can be very dangerous and life-threatening if swallowed by your cat. Only use these toys when you are present to supervise and store them safely once playtime is over.

• Favorite toys or treats
• Cat food
• Cat litter and a litter box
• A cozy bed