Saying “hello” to your beloved cat or introducing yourself to a new cat can be rewarding for both human and feline. What’s the best way to greet a cat so that both kitty and you get the most from the experience? It depends on several factors, such as how well the cat knows you, the cat’s comfort level with humans in general, and whatever may be going on at the time that could distract or disturb the cat.

Greeting a Cat with Whom You Have a Close Bond

Seeing a friendly cat face when you come home is one of life’s joys. When kitty welcomes you home and conveys, through body language, that he missed you, tell him that you missed him too. He may want to rub noses with you or give you a cordial head bump. To make it easier for him to engage in those bonding behaviors with you, consider getting down on your knees so you’re at his level. Of course kitty will probably appreciate some purr-inducing petting as well, but most likely you’re already well aware of that.

Try to make the greeting area someplace other than right by the door, so that your cat doesn’t associate fun times with the door to the not-always-great outdoors.

Greeting a Cat Who’s Accustomed to Humans

When meeting someone else’s cat for the first time, it helps immensely to ask if kitty likes to be petted, and if she has any preferences. In general, let kitty set the pace of familiarity. Let her approach you, rather than the other way around. Avoid direct eye contact; that may be perceived as a provocation.

The Finger-to-Cheek Introduction

A casual, non-invasive “How do you do?” gesture is extending a finger so that kitty can sniff it with her nose and rub it with her cheeks, thereby leaving her scent on you. Place your finger at about the height of the cat’s head and several inches from her, pointing toward her. If kitty is interested, she’ll make her way to your finger. The extended finger greeting is roughly the equivalent of offering your hand for a handshake. It may also simulate the nose-to-nose greeting that cats on friendly terms use with each other.

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