Cats like it when you ...

• Treat them with respect and kindness.
• Approach them from the front. Ask their owners'permission before petting.
• Let them sniff you before you begin petting.
• Stand still and quiet when they approach you.
• Let them know you are near, by talking softly or whistling, and not startling them.

If threatened by a cat . ..

• Remain calm and quiet.
• Most cats will only sniff you, decide you aren't a threat, and walk away. Try to remain motionless until the cat moves away, then back up slowly until he or she is out of sight.
• If you fall or are knocked to the ground, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears and remain motionless.
• Try not to scream or roll around

Cats do not like it when you ...

• Run past or turn your back on them and run away. (A cat's instinct is to chase and catch fleeing prey.)
• Approach them when they are confined or restrained, especially if they do not know you.
• Disturb them while they are sleeping, eating, or guarding something. (cats naturally guard their food, kittens, and toys. Cats also protect their owners, as well as property that belongs to their owners such as homes, yards, or cars.)
• Put your hands between them and another cat.
• Put your face too close to theirs.
• Pull anything out of their mouth, such as a bone, toy, or stick.
• Pick up and carry cats that are not your own.
• Chase or tease them.
• Approach a cat that is injured. Instead, tell an adult about the cat.