I own a cat called Max, I have witnessed my cat crying or being uncomfortable when picked up, so I understand how you may feel about this issue.
In this post, I’ll be discussing some of the reasons your cat cries when picked up, based on my opinion and the information I got from my friends in my cat owner’s Facebook group.
Keep reading to discover my thoughts on why your cat cries when picked up and how to address each of these reasons!
Why Does My Cat Cry When Picked Up
If your cat cries when picked up, it can be due to a mix of instinct and communication, lack of socialization, sensitivity to touch, discomfort, pain, or possibly from an injury or arthritis.
They might also be experiencing anxiety or fear from being held, especially if they are not accustomed to it.
Additionally, some cats simply dislike being restrained and prefer to keep their independence.
Reasons Your Cat Cries When Picked Up
Here’s my opinion on why your cat cries when picked up:
1. Sensitivity to touch
Different cats have different levels of sensitivity to touch, because of this some cats may be more sensitive than others, and being picked up can trigger discomfort or even pain.
This sensitivity can be due to various factors, such as arthritis, injuries, or an underlying medical condition.
If your cat cries when picked up, it may also be a sign that they are experiencing physical discomfort.
2. Negative experiences
Cats are highly perceptive creatures, and they remember negative experiences.
If your cat has had a traumatic or unpleasant encounter while being picked up in the past, they may associate being held with fear or discomfort.
This could be the result of mishandling, being dropped, or even experiencing pain during a previous pick-up attempt.
Their crying could be a way of expressing their distress and trying to avoid a similar situation.
Building trust with your cat through positive reinforcement and gentle handling can help them feel more comfortable being picked up.
3. Fear or anxiety
Cats are naturally cautious animals, and they may feel fearful or anxious when they are lifted off the ground.
Being picked up can make them feel vulnerable, as they lose control over their movements.
This loss of control can trigger their instinctual fight-or-flight response, leading to crying or vocalization.
It’s important to create a safe and secure environment for your cat, providing hiding spots and vertical spaces where they can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed.
Gradual desensitization and positive associations with being picked up can help reduce their fear and anxiety over time.
4. Individual preferences
Cats, like we humans, have their own unique personalities and preferences.
Some cats simply do not enjoy being held or restrained and may cry as a way of expressing their desire to be released.
They may prefer to have their feet on the ground and to interact with you on their own terms.
Respect your cat’s boundaries and allow them to approach you for affection on their own accord.
Understanding and respecting your cat’s individual preferences can help foster a stronger bond and create a more harmonious relationship.
5. Pain or discomfort
When lifted, cats who are in pain or uncomfortable may cry, they can have an underlying medical condition, such as arthritis, an injury, or even stomach issues.
If your cat always screams when you raise them, it’s crucial to watch out for any indications of pain, such as limping or sensitive spots.
It’s essential to send your cat to the vet in such situations so they may receive a complete checkup and the necessary care.
6. Not used to being handled
Some cats may cry when picked up simply because they are not accustomed to being handled.
Inadequate socialization during their kittenhood or limited exposure to physical contact may be the cause of this.
Since cats are independent animals, being taken up may make them feel helpless and uncontrollable.
Start small and work your way up to handling them in brief, constructive exchanges to assist them feel more at ease.
To establish pleasant connections with being lifted up, use play, praise, and treats.
7. Lack of socialization
Cats that have not had sufficient socialization during their early development stages may cry when picked up due to fear or anxiety.
Socialization entails introducing kittens to a range of people and situations as well as handling them in a constructive and regulated way.
Cats who have not had the appropriate socialization may view being picked up as unpleasant or dangerous.
You may assist them in conquering their worries and gaining confidence by giving them a serene and caring environment and instruction in positive reinforcement.
8. Lack of trust
Being inherently wary creatures, cats may cry when picked up as a means of communicating their discomfort or uneasiness if they don’t trust their human caregivers.
Consistent, tactful, and courteous encounters foster trust. Steer clear of picking your cat up against their will or holding them tightly.
Rather, let them come up to you and make eye contact. You may gradually gain their trust and improve their experience of being picked up by respecting their limits and creating a secure setting.
9. Overstimulation
One common reason why cats may cry when picked up is overstimulation.
Cats have a threshold for how much physical contact and interaction they can handle before becoming overwhelmed.
When you pick your cat up, it can be a lot of sensory input for them, such as the feeling of being held, the sound of your voice, and the close proximity to your face.
If your cat starts to cry or vocalize, it could be a sign that they are feeling overstimulated.
Pay attention to their body language, such as twitching tails or flattened ears, as these may indicate that they need a break from the interaction.
Giving your cat plenty of quiet time and space can help prevent overstimulation and reduce their tendency to cry when picked up.
How to stop your cat from crying when picked up
To stop your cat from crying when picked up, you should ensure they feel secure by supporting their body properly, especially under the chest and hindquarters.
It would help if you gradually desensitize them to being held by starting with short, gentle sessions and rewarding them with treats and affection.
You should also pay attention to any signs of discomfort or pain, as these could indicate an underlying health issue that needs addressing.
You should create positive associations with being picked up by engaging in play and giving treats afterward.
Lastly, you should respect your cat’s boundaries, recognizing that not all cats enjoy being held and may need time to build trust.
Related: cat behavior problems and solutions.
Final Thoughts
In summary, if your cat cries when picked up, it could be because of discomfort or fear.
Understanding their body language and respecting their boundaries is essential.
Gradually acclimating them to being held and providing a calm and secure environment can help alleviate their distress and build trust.
Related Questions
Why does my cat cry when picked up?
Cats may cry when picked up due to various reasons, such as discomfort, fear, or stress. Some cats may not enjoy being held or have a lower tolerance for being handled. It’s important to observe your cat’s body language and behavior to understand their preferences and provide them with a comfortable and safe environment.
How can I make my cat more comfortable when being picked up?
To make your cat more comfortable when being picked up, it’s important to approach them gently and respect their boundaries. Gradually introduce them to being held by starting with short periods of time and providing positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise. Additionally, ensure that you are supporting their body properly and not putting pressure on sensitive areas.
Are there any medical reasons why my cat cries when picked up?
Yes, there could be medical reasons why a cat cries when picked up. Cats may experience pain or discomfort due to underlying health issues, such as arthritis or injuries. If you notice persistent crying or changes in behavior when picking up your cat, it’s recommended to consult with a veterinarian for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.
Can I train my cat to enjoy being picked up?
While it may not be possible to train all cats to enjoy being picked up, you can work on building trust and positive associations. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, when your cat allows you to pick them up or shows signs of comfort. However, it’s important to respect your cat’s boundaries and not force them into uncomfortable situations.
