Though cats are low-maintenance pets, they still need affection and touching to know that they have your love. Cats can be as loving as other pets, if you handle them properly and at the right time. But if not done properly, you may be scratched or bitten. Picking up your cat and petting it will ensure a tender relationship between owner and pet. Read the tips listed below and learn about how to pick up a cat.

  • Providing proper support It's important to provide proper support to your kitten or cat when picking it up. A good way to do this is to pick your cat up by putting one hand under its chest, near the front legs. With the other hand, hold its rump and back legs. With these hands in place, lift up your cat. If your cat is situated on a surface that reaches your waist, you can lift the cat by reaching along its body with the rump in your elbow and the chest in your hand. Slowly bring the cat to your chest to further support its body [source: HSUS].
  • Reading the mood Never pick up a cat that doesn't want to be picked up. If your cat seems scared or angry, don't handle it. You'll run the risk of being scratched by its sharp claws. If your cat is agitated and in danger, you can quickly pick it up by the scruff of its neck and take it to safety. Another method is to throw a towel or blanket over your cat and wrap the cat in it. This will ensure that you transport it safely without getting scratched [source: Spadafori].