How to hold a kitten? (Step by step guide)

A step by step guideline how to handle: pick up, hold and put down a kitten.

With their cute face and furry body, it is very tempting to pick up and cuddle with a kitten, and it also sounds very easy.

But just like people, cats also have their own personalities. Some of them can be scared, some nervous and some of them just simply do not like being picked up.

On the other hand, there is a right way and time to hold a kitten so that she will feel safe, happy and comfortable, and holding her in that way will not cause her any harm.

Picking up and holding a kitten correctly can also guarantee a joyful relationship between cat and owner.

As a new pet owner, it is absolutely important for you to understand how to hold a kitten without causing her any stress or harm. But what is the right way to do it? How to hold a kitten correctly?

While different breeds of cats and kittens will allow you to lift them in seemingly awkward positions, we will look at it generally, how to lift and hold them in a way that makes them feel safe and improves the bond between owner and kitten.

If you follow the guideline, you will most likely end up with a happy furry friend who enjoys being held.

Now that we know the importance of handling the kitten correctly, let’s see step by step how to do it.

Step 1: How to approach the cat

Before you pick up your lovely kitty, you have to gain some trust and make sure that she feels secure and completely comfortable in your presence. You can easily achieve this by following some simple tips:

• Let her know you are coming by either letting her see you or talking to her. If you don’t do so, you might end up with a frightened and panicked cat who would run away in any second.
• Move slowly and take your time. Make sure you do not scare away your pretty cutie with some sudden movements as most of the felines are nervous around strangers. Believe me; it is worth taking some time to do it slow if at the end you can get some lovely purr-purrs.
• Crouch down to your kitten’s level and slowly reach out with your hand for her to reassure that you are not a threat.
• Make her feel safe and comfortable next to you by being friendly and loving. Talk to her gently and stroke her cheeks, head and under her chin. This will make her get ready to be held by you.
• Make sure she wants to be picked up. Sometimes cats don’t really like to be held by people. To avoid any negative effect (like being scratched) you have to know your cat’s personality, mood, and overall body language. Pay attention to her body, tail and ears. If she is not hiding, but rubbing against you, purring and meowing, those are real signs that she seeks attention and open for some affection. You can be sure, this is the time to pick her up and pet her in your arms.

If this process does not work for you, move away a little bit, wait some time and let her come to you at her own pace and time. Allow her to walk around you and sniff you then gently start stroking her until she becomes comfortable to be picked up.

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