Pet behavior experts share tips on proper petting techniques for cats and dogs

Experts provide guidance on proper physical interaction with cats and dogs to avoid causing stress or discomfort in pets.

For cats, behavior expert Saskia Schneider of PETBOOK advises that owners should allow cats to initiate contact, particularly with strangers, by offering a hand for sniffing first. Owners should monitor subtle body language, such as ear or tail twitches, and avoid petting during feeding or grooming sessions.

Regarding dogs, the American Kennel Club notes that many dogs feel threatened when humans lean over them to pet their heads. Signs of discomfort include cowering, lowering the head, or showing the whites of the eyes. To mitigate this, owners can use conditioning by petting the dog at eye level and rewarding the behavior with treats to build trust.