Disclosure: These tips are compliments of Michele Dixon, Health & Nutrition Specialist at Petcurean. I have a business relationship with Petcurean as a Blogger Advocate.
Every night when I go to bed and every morning when I wake up my two kitties, George and Carmen, come snuggle on my side of the bed to say, “I love you”. I know this because not only do they give me “kitty kisses” (see below) but they also “talk” to me. It’s one of the best ways to start the day and a wonderful way to end it too. However, it hasn’t always been so easy to understand my pets language of love and until the past year or so it was rather hit or miss with George especially. I did learn how to read his body language though and our relationship is much better for it.
Do you ever wonder what exactly your pets are saying to you? Enjoy these top 5 tips from Michele Dixon from Petcurean and learn your pet’s language of love.
Bonding. Live in the Moment.
Pets are the king and queens of living in the moment, and the best bonding experience we can have, is to meet them at that level. Share calmly in being joyous, playful, and relaxed, whatever positivity your pet is giving you in the moment. In times of stress, be your pets rock, and let them know that everything will be ok. If it’s quiet time, simply spend time doing what your pet responds to positively. For some, that may mean just sitting with them, and doing nothing else.
Bothering. Body Language 101.
Learn to read body language, so your pet can clearly communicate with you, and respect what they are telling you in that moment. Remember your pet is fully present. Avoid giving affection when your pet is giving you a negative response. You do have the opportunity to change the experience to a positive one. So either change your approach to your pet, or back off.
Signs of annoyance include: Turning their head away in avoidance, lick lipping, lip curling, yawning when not tired, sudden sniffing of the ground, or a paw being raised. With cats, they often flick their tails, put their ears back, or get up and leave
Kisses and Quality Time.
Kisses are one way, but to a dog especially, showing love is often more about their loyalty and respect for you. Cats show love by wanting to spend time in your lap, or by interacting (such as giving head bonks). Ever see your cat give you a “slow blink”? That’s also a sign of pure love and is often referred to as “kitty kisses”. Next time you see it, try giving a slow blink in return.
Cuddle Buddies.
Some pets enjoy a cuddle, but in some cases hugging can be tricky. Many pets feel “claustrophobic” when been hugged, especially if they are not permitted to leave. The hugs of small children who tend to squeeze too hard and not let go are a prime example. Additionally, a pet should only be hugged when you are feeling calm. In the case of an injured pet, or upset pet, hugging is often not the best solution, as this case often nurtures the unwanted behavior, and creates more of the negative behavior.
Pets Aren’t People.
It’s important to remember that pets aren’t people, and their language and emotional needs are different. The best gift you can give your pet is to be truly present, by focusing all of your attention on them whenever you choose to interact. Now is the time to stop thinking about work, your schedule, your troubles, or tomorrow, and enjoy them at their level. If you’re stressed, your pet will often reflect your stress. Learn what they like and don’t like by paying attention to the small things. And respect that like people, they are all different. Some love closeness, some are more independent.
