Pet Me Right! – How to Properly Pet Animals

Animals are cute, fluffy, and often irresistibly soft – but they’re not stuffed toys. Whether it’s a dog, cat, rabbit, or guinea pig: every animal has its comfort zone – and ignoring that can backfire fast.

🙌 Rule #1: Ask before you pet (in body language)

You wouldn’t walk up to a stranger and rub their head, right? Same goes for animals.

Let them sniff your hand, read their body language, and wait for a sign: curiosity, relaxation, a soft gaze – these are green lights.

🐶 Dogs – Belly rub? Only with permission!

• Favorite spots: chest, base of the ears, neck – if the dog’s relaxed.

• A dog exposing its belly might not want belly rubs – it could be submission or uncertainty.

• Wagging tail? Doesn’t always mean happy! Look at posture, ears, and facial tension too.

🐱 Cats – Pet me... maybe

• Favorite zones: forehead, chin, ears – on their terms.

• If the tail starts twitching: stop.

• Rubbing against your legs? That’s a yes.

• Swatting, ears back, or walking away? That’s a clear “nope.”

🐰 Rabbits – Handle with care (and on the floor)

• Most hate being picked up.

• Gentle strokes on the head or sides are okay – but keep it low.

• Don’t grab from above – it triggers their flight instinct.

🐹 Small animals – Less is more

• Many small pets don’t enjoy being held.

• If you must, use both hands and be super gentle.

• Never sneak up on them – especially not from behind or above.

❤️ Golden Rule:

Watch the animal – not your cuddle craving.

If an animal wants attention, it’ll show you. If it doesn’t – respect that. Simple as that.

🐾