One myth is that it's OK to pick up a cat by the scruff of its neck. Veterinarians sometimes use a similar technique. However, they are trained to do this (© iStockphoto / Thinkstock)-
In recent years, veterinarians have stepped in to provide a quick, cost-effective place on the Internet for owners to have their questions answered and get solid advice no matter the time of the day.More >> In recent years, veterinarians have stepped in to provide a quick, cost-effective place on the Internet for owners to have their questions answered and get solid advice no matter the time of the day.More >> To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life (or nine), check out these five easy steps promoting feline wellness.More >> To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life (or nine), check out these five easy steps promoting feline wellness.More >> Cats can quickly become very attached to you, which may lead to separation anxiety.More >> Cats can quickly become very attached to you, which may lead to separation anxiety.More >> ![© Thinkstock.com]( "© Thinkstock.com")
© Thinkstock.comWho says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality.More >> Who says dogs have all the fun? Cats can be just as smart, fun and full of personality.More >> Thinking about adopting a cat? Here are five reasons why you should think about bringing home a pair instead of just one furry feline.
More >> Thinking about adopting a cat? Here are five reasons why you should think about bringing home a pair instead of just one furry feline.More >>
-
These days, dogs are on Facebook and Twitter, and they're even "blogging" with help from their owners.More >> These days, dogs are on Facebook and Twitter, and they're even "blogging" with help from their owners.More >> Dogs are social animals, and generally don't tolerate long periods of being alone.More >> Dogs are social animals, and generally don't tolerate long periods of being alone.More >> ![iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram]( "iStockphoto.com / Lee Ingram")
iStockphoto.com / Lee IngramSince dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly.More >> Since dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly.More >> Traveling with a dog can be fun, exciting and memorable, but it can also be a bit of a challenge if its idea of bathroom etiquette is finding the nearest patch of grass that smells like home.More >> Traveling with a dog can be fun, exciting and memorable, but it can also be a bit of a challenge if its idea of bathroom etiquette is finding the nearest patch of grass that smells like home.More >> Older dogs might not fill a home with happy chaos as energetic puppies do, but these senior pets still enrich our lives in so many ways.More >> Older dogs might not fill a home with happy chaos as energetic puppies do, but these senior pets still enrich our lives in so many ways.More >>
By The Daily Cat experts
You're good to be concerned, as cats can feel pain when picked up the wrong way. Some very docile cats may tolerate the pain, but the last thing you and other thoughtful owners want to do is to hurt the cat.
One myth is that it's OK to pick up a cat by the scruff of its neck. Mother cats do that safely with their kittens, but it requires a special touch. Veterinarians sometimes use a similar technique. However, they are trained to lift a cat in such a manner.
The Humane Society advises that you approach the cat from either its left or right side, since most cats feel threatened when you come at them head-on. Place one hand under the "armpits" of the front legs and lift. As you do so, use your other hand to scoop up the cat from underneath. This second hand should act as a firm cradle support.
If you do this properly, the lift is like giving your cat a big, safe bear hug. Cats that are used to the treatment will probably approach you in the future, hoping for the positive attention again.
Copyright © 2011 Studio One Networks. All rights reserved.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2013 WorldNow and WFXG, a Raycom Media Station.
