24/11/2022
🚦 ✋ 🐈 Touch zones are important to consider when initiating interactions with cats in homing centres. Observing the cats body language during interactions with them in the shelter allows us to consider which touch zones each individual cat is comfortable with and whether they are happy for the interactions to be continued.
The touch zone infographic below has been adapted from Dr Lauren Finka’s work and based on research by Dr Sarah Ellis and colleagues at the University of Lincoln, UK and shows different coloured areas:
🟢 The green areas are where most cats accept touch ➡️ The areas around the cheeks and chin have scent glands and cats frequently rub these parts against objects, which means they are used to sensations around these areas being non-threatening
🟠 The amber areas are where some caution should be taken ➡️ These areas are less frequently used by the cat to rub against things, so are more likely to feel threatening if touched
🔴 The red areas are recommended to be avoided! ➡️ These areas are easily harmed in a fight with another cat, so it may feel like a threat if unfamiliar people touch them
You can download our touch zones poster to display in your homing centre, so you can talk to staff and volunteers about what it means 👉 https://icatcare.org/unowned-cats/cat-friendly-homing/care-cat-fr
What are you experiences with the different touch zones when you have been interacting with cats in the shelter? 👇
