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Everyone deserves a good massage every once in a while, and so do cats. If you have been offering nothing more than a pat on the head, you are doing your animal a disservice. Massaging your cat has many benefits for both of you. This blog post will discuss this and more, including how to massage your cat properly.
The 6 Benefits of Massaging Your Cat
While many cats will be just fine with a belly rub, a massage offers incredible benefits. The following are some of them.
1. It Helps Them Relax
One of the main benefits of massaging your cat is that it helps them relax and become calmer. This can be especially helpful if your cat tends to get anxious or stressed out easily. By regularly massaging your cat, you can help reduce their anxiety and keep them feeling happy and content.
2. It Stimulates Their Blood Circulation
Another great benefit of massaging your cat is that it stimulates blood circulation. When you massage your cat regularly, this can help improve the flow and circulation of blood throughout the massaged area of the body, which in turn helps with any potential swelling, inflammation, or pain.
3. It Helps Increase Their Flexibility
Cats are naturally flexible and agile creatures, but they could always use a little boost, especially older cats suffering from arthritis or other chronic or painful health conditions and cats recovering from an injury or surgery. In those cases first consult with your vet about the amount of massage your cat may benefit from.
By regularly massaging your feline, you can help increase their flexibility due to the beneficial effects massage has on the muscles and make them more agile and comfortable. This can contribute to muscle stretching and improving mobility between the tissues, their strength, and tone, as well as aid in lymphatic drainage.
4. Helps Detect Any Unusual Bumps or Lumps
A regular massage can help you detect any unusual lumps or bumps on your cat’s body. This allows you to catch problems early and take action if necessary.
Remember, lumps can be a sign of cancer, which affects one in five cats.2 It could also indicate other medical issues in cats that require prompt medical attention. Who knows? A simple massage might just save your cat’s life.
If you do notice anything unusual, make sure to call a vet for guidance and a treatment plan.
5. Allows You to Bond With Your Feline Friend
At the end of the day, one of the best benefits of massaging your cat is that it allows you to bond with them. You can spend some quality time with your cat, kneading and stroking them, which brings you closer together.
6. It’s Good for Your Health Too
Massaging your cat is actually good for your own health. It can help lower your blood pressure and reduce stress levels, which in turn helps you live a healthier and happier life.
It’s also a great way to pass the time and can help you relax. Don’t forget that it also brings you and your cat closer together, which is a win-win situation for both parties.
How to Massage Your Cat the Right Way
So you’re sold on the idea of massaging your cat but just don’t know how to? Here’s a quick breakdown of how to massage your cat
The Head and Face
Start by gently petting your cat’s head and face, using both hands to massage the areas around their ears. Take care not to push too hard, as this can be uncomfortable or even painful for your cat.
The Neck, Shoulders, and Back
Next, move on to the neck, shoulders and back. Use your fingers to gently massage these areas in smooth, circular motions. Again, take care not to press too hard or apply too much pressure.
The Ears
You can also massage your cat’s ears if they enjoy it. But remember to be gentle, as these areas are particularly sensitive and can be easily injured.
The Tummy
You’ll need to be extra careful when massaging the tummy and some cats will want you to stay away from it. This area can be especially sensitive for cats, and pressing too hard or applying too much pressure can cause them discomfort.
To properly massage your cat’s tummy, start by gently stroking the area with your fingers and palm. As you massage your cat, be sure to keep an eye on their body language and reactions. If they seem stressed out or uncomfortable at any point, stop immediately and try another technique.
Final Thoughts
A simple massage could make a world of difference in your cat’s health. The best part is that you don’t even have to spend a dime.
Whether you massage your cat daily, weekly, or just whenever the mood strikes, embrace it as a way to bond with your feline friend and help them live a longer and happier life. Don’t start tomorrow, go give your kitty a soothing massage today!
Featured Image Credit: Ekaterina Kuzovkova, Shutterstock
