Download Article Show Download Article The loose skin around a cat's neck is called the scruff. When done properly and only when necessary, scruffing a cat (holding a cat by its scruff) is an effective method of restraint, although it may look uncomfortable or even painful to the cat. There is a right way and a wrong way to hold a cat by the scruff. Learning and practicing the right way will help you become more skilled at safely restraining a cat.
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Advertisement ReferencesAbout This ArticleArticle SummaryX To safely hold a cat by the scruff, wait until the cat is relaxed and comfortable with you petting it. Place the cat on a sturdy, even surface, then rest your hand at the back of the cat’s neck and gently grasp the loose skin in this area with your entire hand, grasping as close to the ears as possible. The cat should lay its ears back, but its body should be relaxed unless the cat is very aggressive. If you’re lifting the cat, support it under the hindquarters while you’re holding it by the scruff. Keep reading to learn when it is and isn’t appropriate to scruff your cat! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 535,403 times. Reader Success Stories
Did this article help you?Is it okay to pick up a cat by the scruff?The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) and International Cat Care, as well as many cat-only veterinarians and veterinary behaviorists do not recommend scruffing. Instead, they recommend cat-friendly, low stress, and fear free handling techniques. These methods take a "less is more" approach.
Do cats like it when you grab their scruff?In adult cats, scruffing triggers fear and stress rather than relaxation. The only time an adult cat is held by the scruff is during mating—if a female in estrus, or “heat”—or when under attack by a predator.
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