How to massage a cat

Massage for pets, including cats, is becoming more and more popular. Why does a cat need a massage and how to do it, and in what cases is it better to abstain?

Photo: pixabay.com

Why does a cat need a massage?

Massage is very useful for cats, as well as for other animals.

1. Massage allows you to improve contact between a person and a cat, to establish a warmer relationship.
2. Massage helps the cat recover from illness or injury.
3. Massage improves body flexibility in older cats.

Massage stimulates the cat’s blood circulation, increases the flow of oxygen to the tissues. It helps to relax the musculoskeletal muscles, as a result of which it relieves muscle spasms and reduces pain.

How to massage a cat

You can learn simple cat massage by taking a few lessons from a specialist, after which you can help your pet at home. However, a number of rules must be observed:

• Accustom the cat to massage gradually, starting with a few minutes of light stroking.
• Remember that some cats are very sensitive to touch on certain parts of the body. Don’t do anything that your cat doesn’t like.
• Follow the mood of the purr. If a massage is unpleasant for a cat, do not insist.
• Keep calm: the calmer the person, the more peaceful the cat will be during the massage.

Photo: google

Cat massage technique:

1. Start with a light stroke.
2. Make circular motions with your fingertips, starting at the head and then massaging the neck. Gradually move your hand a little lower.
3. Then massage your back towards the tail (which is also part of the spine) and towards the paws.

When should a cat not be massaged?

There are situations in which you can not massage a cat. In what cases is it better to refrain from massage?

1. Increased temperature.
2. The cat’s limbs are dislocated, broken, swollen, or sprained.
3. The cat has recently experienced a heart attack or shock.
4. The cat has cancer.
5. The cat has damaged or displaced vertebral discs.