Teaching kids to play with – and care for

Teaching kids to play with – and care for – kitty



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Cats and kids can develop wonderful relationships – and it starts with trust.

Here are some tips to begin the process.

Follow feline etiquette. When two familiar cats greet each other they engage in nose-to-nose sniffing. It’s after this that they decide whether to come closer or back away. Have your child extend his index finger in front of the cat. Don’t stick the finger in the cat’s face or wiggle it or try to entice the cat into play. Merely extend the finger as if it’s another cat’s nose. This gives the cat an opportunity to do some initial sniffing. If she wants to engage your child, she’ll rub against his finger or move closer. If she doesn’t want more interaction, she’ll stay still or move away.

Pet with an open hand. The wrong petting technique can ruin a budding relationship. Show your child how to gently pet with an open hand and to stroke in the direction the hair grows. Some cats have sensitive areas or strong preferences when it comes to where they’re touched. Instruct your child on the areas to stay away from.

Create special games. Cats love to play. Help your child pick out a cat toy – a fishing pole type toy – and show him how to conduct a play session with kitty. Teach your child not to poke the cat or point the toy in her face, as well as not frustrating kitty by keeping the toy out of reach. Place open paper bags on their sides and have your child try to get the toy in each bag. Both he and the cat will have fun as the toy darts about.

Model the behavior you want in your child. Your child is learning from watching how you care for and interact with the family pets. Demonstrate, on a daily basis, that kitty needs proper healthcare, good nutrition, love, fun, and kindness.

For step-by-step instructions, refer to the book Think Like a Cat.