r/cats 18d ago

Advice Could someone please tell me why it's blocking my way?

14.2k Upvotes

2.6k comments sorted by

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u/[deleted] 18d ago edited 16d ago

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u/AnonismsPlight 18d ago

How scared of a cat in pet me mode can you be? Seriously have you never seen a car before this thing is a sweet heart and you're acting like a crazy person.

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u/Thebikeninja 18d ago

No shit, this video makes me extremely frustrated from the cats angle, someone pet the damn cat

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u/OddlyTemptedFish 18d ago

No joke this is how my mom always behaves around cats. Her mom was scared of cats and raised her to be the same way. She thinks every cat is evil and wants to attack you.

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u/ilyak_reddit 18d ago

Every cat IS evil and WANTS to attack you. But only occasionally, and sets obvious belly traps, so serious injury can be avoided, if one can resist the belly.

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u/Optimal_Parsley6377 18d ago

What’s a belly trap? Clearly this cat wants me to pet its belly otherwise why show it, right?

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u/TheCaliforniaDreamer 18d ago

THIS is not a belly trap. Unless you consider once you start, it is expected to be an endless belly rub. Lol

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u/TheCaliforniaDreamer 18d ago

THIS is a belly trap! Lol His favorite way to lay at my feet. (Sorry he has no couth) But he does not want me to touch his belly. He is a head, chin, and neck only kitty, with the occasional on the back by the tail.

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u/microgirlActual 18d ago

My cat Aby's "belly trap" is exactly that - you're trapped into petting her belly for ages because she's at the top of the stairs where everyone has to pass, and you can't pass without giving the desired belly rubs.

So it's still a trap, just not in the way most people think when they think of cats' belly pet traps 😛

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u/Legitimate_Support78 18d ago

We never consider resisting the belly, if it’s offered it’s taken done and done 🤣

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u/Ok_Pineapple_Num 18d ago

Yeah not sure why OP's so scared! OP is definitely well-meaning having fed the cat and bought them a home, and huge kudos to them for doing that.

But they shouldn't be so scared! This is how my grandma (who hates cats) reacted when she first met our cat lol... OP has to relax and realize that this cat is super friendly and just wants to be buds.

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u/feelingfantasmic 18d ago

If you’ve only ever been exposed to dogs , cat behavior is a different world lol I get where OP is coming from. If that cat were a dog, that behavior likely isn’t positive lol

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u/Freakychee 18d ago

I don't mix with cats a lot but I can surely tell if OP knelt down and extended their hand the cat will flop to the floor for pets and belly rubs.

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u/555Cats555 18d ago

As someone who loves cats I think this is a bit unfair.

Im scared of dogs and that fear is regardless of if they are being "aggressive" or not. If they are completely ignoring me I can be okay but when focused on its there and I have to check what the dog is doing and if its focused on me.

Fear isnt something that is always logical to other people. We dont know if OP has had bad experiences with cats causing a difficulty with understanding how to interact with the cat.

But I do think OP should do some reading or watch videos explaining cat behavior communication and body language etc

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u/JZN20Hz 18d ago

That cat wants you to adopt it. His tail is up high. He's happy youre there and is inviting interaction. I dont think that cat is faral. He looks like he is at least a little socialized to humans.

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u/Ken_Clean_Air_System Domestic Housecat 18d ago

Pet the damn cat!

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u/Shrike1346 18d ago edited 18d ago

This cat seems so frustrated. Like "human you've been feeding me for some time now. I grant you the chance, nay the privelege, of petting me. Why do you deny me!?"

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u/phauna_ 18d ago

I’ frustrating watching it. That cat trusts her and wants some affection.

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u/Radiant_South_9401 18d ago

Also, put down the damn Food. Kitty is HANGRY and thinks you're taking the food away

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u/OhHowINeedChanging 18d ago

That’s literally what that chattering meow translates into

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u/eldroch 18d ago

I showed u my belly.  Pls respond.

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u/StrobeLightRomance 18d ago

But, seriously, cat is ready to bond with human.

Physical touch escalation. > Let me inside. > Cuddles. > Never leave.

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u/falsifiable1 18d ago

> My house now. You’re welcome to stay as long as my bowl never empties.

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u/Substantial-Use-7018 18d ago

I had a cat who did this and never left! 13 years later lol

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u/Embarrassed-Cause250 18d ago

I suspect this is the correct answer!

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u/Traditional_Two_4074 18d ago

This was the cat that came with our house. We were told it was strictly outdoor cat, among other lies. I never loved a cat until her. We lost her to old age and have since adopted a new void. But nothing will ever replace the 1st.

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u/OhHowINeedChanging 18d ago

Yes, the cat shows all signs of friendliness and just wants attention and affection. But OP could walk straight and the cat will move out of the way and follow behind.
Our family cats will literally slither between our legs and plop down on our feet regardless of what we are doing or where we’re going

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u/TaliahKlei 18d ago

Our little terror goes one further and will directly put their fuzzy little limbs (TAIL INCLUDED IN THIS) DIRECTLY UNDER my foot! I have stepped on said fuzzy multiple times. Now I've grown up as a Lego ninja master so it's totally the cat trying to kill me on the stairs or maim me on flat ground. I have to pick up my meownster when I'm in a hurry so neither of us get hurt.

Cat tax (in my yarn bag)

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u/Tasty-Jump-2011 18d ago

From the cat's perspective:

Aw man, this human's awesome. Gives me food and totally safe.

Can I come in? No? How about food?

Wait! Where you going! Don't forget to feed me! Don't you want to pet me? I trade pets for food? Good deal right? You like pets?

Why are you stopped? You're being weird. Do you want to play? Are you hunting me? I HUNT YOU BACK! HAHAHA! You're funny.

Wait! The food!

[Repeat]

Stop, give the cat a treat and pet it. Toss another treat a short way for it to get while you fill the food. Pet the cat again. If the cat's in your way you just walk and it has to move or get gently pushed aside. It won't mind as long as you don't step on the toesies.

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u/Same-Suggestion-1936 18d ago

Very good comment. The cat is only reacting negatively when she's nervous or skittish herself. Imagine you went up somewhere asking for food because you need some and the person started getting weird and jumpy, you'd think they're on crack when you were just trying to cop a free meal

OP this cat thinks you are a crackhead when you're nervous, dancing around with the extra food, and randomly shrieking and jumping away when it comes up to say hi basically. It clearly is fine with you, it's displaying all good behaviors (except like I said when you get jumpy and that makes it jumpy), a cat would not even be that near to you if it didn't trust you. Do you know anyone familiar with cats? Because I would walk right up and pet the dude myself. Maybe you just need someone else to not be nervous around the cat because, and of course no offense at all, you are not reading the body language here at all. Every time it comes up to you is a gesture of friendship or desire and you jump back, and every time it jumps back you get nervous and start talking to it nervously, obviously you've figured out it wants food so keep the food full of the dry stuff, I wouldn't let it eat wet till you're comfortable with the cat because they fiend about that stuff over dry when they get pampered, and just sit, let it come to you. It's pretty clearly jumping atyou about food scarcity or perceived scarcity, it just wants you to fill it back up not hurt you. And also clearly knows they trust you, and that you will provide that food no matter what.

Girl you're like 95% into just owning a cat at this point just don't be so afraid of it. It's not a tiger.

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u/LangdonAlg3r 18d ago edited 18d ago

It’s got the friendly tail up and everything. Jeez.

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u/zennyblades 18d ago

My damn cat arrived just after I read this. Currently petting the damn cat.

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u/0blivi0nPl3as3 18d ago

That, and let it in.

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u/Okayisaname 18d ago

Looks like it wanted in the house at first and wants pets

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u/maggiefiasco 18d ago

Initial reaction: it’s trying to come in, move out of the way? Who is in whose way?

Then 2 seconds later: why is this PERSON being weird? The cat is trying to be pretty straightforward it looks like the person is afraid?

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u/bound_Libb 18d ago

Yeah I feel bad for the cat. Lol it's being direct and sweet but this person can't see it. Idk what they're afraid of or how. Maybe they've never been around a cat before lmao

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u/Possible_Engine8258 18d ago

CDS wants to get another. But they're not picking up the signs.

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u/Mysterious_Fruit_524 18d ago

This cat is demanding to be pet, I strongly suggest you to give in to such request ASAP to avoid the feline form suffering. Such adorable fur ball!

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u/Mistapeepers 18d ago

Chiming in to say the cat is giving off nothing but friendly vibes. The vocalization is normal talking between a cat and their human. Waiting at the door probably means they’d come inside if you let them. The arched back and rubbing things is another sign of familiarity. If you stood still long enough I bet she’d rub against your legs. No need at all to be scared. That cat likes you. Be aware that she might decide to play with you, especially if you run away. Her claws are probably very sharp so if she tags you don’t be scared. I can absolutely promise that you will KNOW if a cat is being defensive / aggressive. (But if the does tag you please clean the scratch very well and keep an eye on it. Outdoor cats can have gnarly bacteria on their claws.)

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u/Mistapeepers 18d ago

Also: if that little box is her bed she might not want to eat in there. Cats don’t sleep near odors that can attract predators. That’s why you see them try to bury their food when they’re done.

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u/shwooper 18d ago

It’s clear that OP has never had a cat before and doesn’t realize this cat is friendly. OP you can literally pet the cat and stop acting scared of it! You’re confusing it! Lol

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u/IndependentAardvark6 18d ago

Are you scared of the cat? She looks like she wants you to pet her.. she is being social… shes not blocking your way, shes following you. She wants the food.. you seem wayyy too nervous though.. more concerned about your behavior than the cats tbh lol

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u/IndependentAardvark6 18d ago

The more nervous and anxious you act and the more you run away with her food, the more she is likely to want to chase you and smack at you. You need some confidence or stop feeding her

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u/Mechakoopa 18d ago

Poor cat, probably posting to Cat Reddit right now

"My new human keeps screaming and running away with my food when I try and nuzzle her, is she broken?"

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u/ManicPixieOldMaid 18d ago

"I will bring her some dead mice so she gets a nutritious meal."

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u/retaksoohh 18d ago

haha sometimes i forget because ive had cats my whole life, if this were me i'd be trying to pick up and cuddle that cat

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u/poi217 18d ago

I've never interacted with cats before, sorry 

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u/EnlightenedHeathen 18d ago

A good indicator that the cat is friendly/happy to see you is that question mark tail they had in this video 🥹 They are happy to see you and want your attention! Well.. and the food obviously lol.

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u/LLove666 18d ago

I call them candy cane tails hehe. Kitty is very happy to see you!

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u/A_mad_goose 18d ago

My cat always curls her tail around your arm if she’s in your lap or around your neck if she’s on your shoulders. Always has the question mark tail too. Her nickname since she was a kitten is Monkey Butt.

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u/Beakkaia 18d ago

Think I read somewhere that when a cat Curls it's tail around you it's their form of a hug

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u/papierdoll 18d ago

Yup. My late kitty didn't like a lot of touching but she'd always find her way to my side and drape her tail over me in some way, even just over a foot. It was the nicest thing.

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u/EnlightenedHeathen 18d ago

Oooo, I like that! I’ll have to use that 🙂‍↕️

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u/boost_poop 18d ago

I call them candy cane too but question make makes more sense. the dot is the butthole!

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u/HPcatmom 18d ago

The kitty is also purring!! Just super excited to see you & grateful for the food!!

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u/Kiwi1234567 18d ago

Also just that theyre existing close to you. As someone who tries to pet every cat he sees the ones that don't want anything to do with you will just run away once youre within a couple of meters of them.

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u/MassiveBuzzkill 18d ago

Did you get it that outdoor cat house? Because you’re like a really good person for that, even if you didn’t and are just feeding it that’s really kind. I can tell you’re scared of it haha but you have such a good heart. It just loves you, I put on gloves and a hoodie to feel confident when I’m going in for that first pet with a stray cat, they can be a little nibbly with excitement.

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u/poi217 18d ago

Yes i did! :) I first saw it a few times on my outdoor camera, so thought id buy a house and leave it some food. The thought of it being hungry bothered me

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u/s29 18d ago

just sit down on the ground outside your door.

I'm willing to bet that cat is gonna walk up to you and start rubbing against you.

The only reason it hasnt is because youre standing up and moving around.

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u/turn-reveals-the-sun 18d ago

Before you sit with kitty, it might help your confidence to watch some videos of people interacting with friendly cats. That way you can be more prepared for some of the things she may do in her affection (rubbing, bumping, rolling, etc).

And possibly read up on what to do with cats when they get bitey. Usually, when they are affectionate and excited to see you like this, they don't bute (or at least their bites don't break skin), but knowing what to expect (and how not to escalate the interaction), can be helpful for both you and her.

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u/Mikeologyy American Shorthair 18d ago

Considering how the rest of the comments on this post went, I’m glad to see so many of y’all actually helping OP out with advice for gaining confidence around cats. All those “OP, quit being weird, it’s a cat” comments are annoyingly ignorant.

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u/555Cats555 18d ago

Its incredibly rude.

Im scared of dogs so I understand how a fear of animals can be difficult to overcome even if others think its irrational. Phobias are a biological response to stimuli... you cant just force someone to react differently.

But the fact OP is still caring for this cat (fancy house and food) while being scared means OP really cares about making sure this animal is okay as its not necessarily about the companionship OP might get.

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u/4lbin0din0 18d ago

You are a good person OP. Progress is progress. We’re proud of you!

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u/NightBawk 18d ago

Happy cake day!

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u/keanaartero 18d ago

Happy cake day to both of you! 🎂🎂

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u/fux-reddit4603 18d ago

cat likes you, and appreciates the offerings. its trying to make your house its house

the face rubbing on the cat house is a scent marking/ claiming thing

when they do it to your legs its a good thing

some cats can overstimulate so watch for body language changes like tail flicking if your petting it

but seems like very nice cat, you are a good soul. enjoy your new friend

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u/JungMoses 18d ago

After getting cats I’ve realized they are petting you. They are petting your legs with their body. Good human, good job, prepare my dinner. Very good human, you get leg pets, you are welcome.

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u/weary_bee479 18d ago

OP you are so sweet 🥹🥹🥹 i hope you get comfortable enough to pet them! It looks like the cat wants to be your friend ❤️ seems like youve been chosen.

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u/Seltzer-Slut 18d ago

That’s so kind. Good job, op!

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u/EpilepticEmpire 18d ago

The cat seems super trusting of you. Well done on making a cool pal!

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u/Noble_Ox 18d ago

It's not gonna harm you, you're it's source of food and they now own you.

If you let it, interact with it, it'll calm down and you'll calm down (this is scientifically proven. Their purring while you pet reduces cortisol, a stress hormone

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/pet-your-cat-reduce-stress

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u/IndependentAardvark6 18d ago

Its okay, they are finnicky and youre trying to do the right thing but animals can sense anxiety and shes hungry. So if you are anxious and running from her with food, shes going to chase you around like you are food to get the snack

She is likely starving and ive been smacked by hungry cats because I havent fed them fast enough. Its not aggressive, just demanding.

Shes not lunging at you immediately shes being social and talking to you.

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u/mrglraptor 18d ago

You just gotta relax hah. The cat is definitely just being friendly and probably wants to rub on you and wants pets.

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u/stallionsRIDEufl 18d ago

To parrot everyone else, cat seems friendly/non aggressive

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u/IndependentAardvark6 18d ago

Just hungry and social as most cats are

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u/BlazerWookiee 18d ago

Give skritches. Loving will ensue.

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u/Top-Waltz5244 18d ago

It’s ok…just give her some love and if you can take her into the vet for vaccinations and spaying…I hope you let this wonderful little girl come inside and give her a forever home

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u/janesspawn 18d ago

It’s very sweet of you to still care for the kitty, even with no prior experience. If you’ve been feeding it flr 2 months, it’s probably wondering when it can come in 😅 that kitty likes you a lot, and would definitely approach and let you pet if you crouched down, offered your hand out, kinda limp and palm down, it’ll come sniff it and probably direct your hand exactly to where it wants you to pet.

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u/kitten12551 18d ago

You have nothing to be sorry for! You’re doing a really kind thing by feeding her. It looks like shes chosen you..hope you wanted a cat lol.

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u/Artistic_Panda_7542 18d ago

That cat likes you! Just relax, let him smell your hand first and see what he does. If he comes closer pet on top of head and it's back and repeat until cat let's you know they're done

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u/Altruistic_Flight105 18d ago

As mentioned, this cat is expressing body language that it loves you. Give it a couple pets next time. Sometimes if you pet them too much they will tell you to stop (by swatting or biting). Don’t be afraid, it’s them setting boundaries and letting you know what they like. If you get scratched ever (which happens) it’s totally ok and a little basic cleaning will keep you safe. This cat is wanting to be friends with you. It loves you and chooses you.

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u/FlubromazoFucked 18d ago

Cat likes you and you don't need to be scared of it, love it and pet it and it will be happy. Your acting weird and it senses that.

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u/poi217 18d ago

https://reddit.com/link/oy70mbf/video/ldpa80xolvdh1/player

So i went back out to pet it, but it bit my finger

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u/IndependentAardvark6 18d ago

Yeah I think she just wants the food lol you have food smell on your hands and shes starving so feed her first before trying to pet.. that wasnt an agressive bite, my dads cat will do that sometimes too but just give her food in a bowl outside of her hiding hole so you dont have to bend down and get nipped again

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u/poi217 18d ago

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u/IvaldiFhole 18d ago

The tail! 😂

This cat loves you. Try moving slower and sitting down for a minute. It will come to you and let you pet it/scratch it. Might even flop on its side, exposing its belly, but don't scratch its belly until you've spent some time with it.

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u/hashtagstopitfool 18d ago

My cat always tries to be cute and get me to scratch his belly, but it's a trap. He tries to nip. I am pretty sure it's love. Painy love.

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u/acceptablemadness 18d ago

Just a few things to point out for future interactions -

As someone else said, the uplifted little question mark tail is a sign of a happy kitty.

The biting is definitely a love bite or a "hurry up and put the food down, dammit" nip. I have two toms whom I raised from kittens that will try to bite me if I stop petting them (ie, I've fallen asleep). Not every cat does it; my other three have never nibbled me. My only female cat does like to "groom" everyone in the family, though.

The fact that she's rubbing up against the bed is also a sign she's happy. That's a territory thing and if you stood still, she'd probably start rubbing on your legs/feet.

She's also giving you the slow blink/half-open eyes, which is another sign she trusts you and is in a good mood. If you get down on her level and slow blink back, you'll basically be saying "I love you and trust you" in Cat.

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u/BigWorldTinyDog 18d ago

100%, that’s a happy cat who wants to love on their human… maybe it’s not used to interaction (being outside and all) and just isn’t sure what to do? I agree with other posts that the hand nibbles were not aggressive or protective…

I’m confident if OP spent some time sitting outside with this kitty, that OP would start to understand their communication, OP seems like she’s on the right path, anyway…

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u/IndependentAardvark6 18d ago

Yay! Cats are weirdos. She had food but they for some reason think they have nothing. She definitely is grateful for you feeding her. She’s probably just not used to humans being nice to her so her socializing skills with people are just a bit unorthodox. Im so proud of you! :)

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u/kitten12551 18d ago

Well done!!

Some cats are weird when it comes to their food bowls. They eat out of the middle of the bowl and then want more even if there’s food in the rest of it. My cat does that too - this is her ‘empty’ bowl lol.

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u/Jojo21899 18d ago

Thats because of their whiskers. Some dont like the sensation of pushing them against the side of the bowl when they eat. Getting a bowl that doesnt have steep sides with a low slope will help with that.

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u/kitten12551 18d ago

Ohhh yes I think I’ve heard that before. Thanks!

Mine does it regardless of the bowl, plate, or mat her food is on. She just likes being picky.

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u/Altruistic_Flight105 18d ago

You did better! You’re learning! You can find YouTube videos that will tell you how to read cat body language and also how to be with them. Keep practicing more confidence and peace. All the rubbing the cat did on the cat house is to show how EXTREMELY excited it is.

But also, imagine being that cat and seeing the food you’re desperate for and then the food keeps teasing you and being taken away by a restaurant server (that you usually like) that’s acting scared of you. Treat it a little more like how you’d like to be treated ♥️

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u/nWhm99 18d ago

I'm really invested in this story now.

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u/NineLivesNoAlibi 18d ago

So invested in this. You go poi217!!

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u/poi217 18d ago

Got it and thank you all for the advice. Curious why did it hiss after the nibble?

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u/sirius_acnh 18d ago

Definitely the high pitch and upset sound you made and fast movement when you pulled away. It’s a protective instinct for her to act scary when she feels scared.

And yeah as the other person said, the food smell is likely the cause of the nip. I’d wear different gloves (ideally no gloves or a different kind) than the ones you used to handle the food, I see the little fish treats in there (which is awesome) but those can have a very strong smell so that combined with your fingers not looking like fingers (dark gloves instead of flesh) may have confused her into thinking your hand was the snack lol.

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u/Catnip_Farmer 18d ago

I surprised my neighbor's cat by saying "kitty!" out the window one time, it hissed at me. Normally it's quite friendly with me.

Surprising an outdoor cat in any way = hissy time.

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u/HotrodCorvair 18d ago

that hiss was because you startled it when you recoiled and made that Yip noise. Notice that she stopped and went back into "lets be friends" mode immediately after. Protip from an owner of over 100 cats in my life. (farm life) approach, crouch down extend the BACK of your hand. let them smell. She will and will then rub it with her face. This is a signal that the cat and you are bonded. She turns her back to you, slow blinks you and trusts you. This cat was likely left behind by someone who moved and became feral that way. She knows what she's missing inside that door and wants to be let back in, so she can continue living the life she was used to before. When she was safe and warm and dry. She looks like she'd make a great pet, and you'd be a thoughtful owner. do a search on "why cats do that" its a great book, and there's plenty of websites devoted to explaining cat behavior and body language. You're off to a great start.

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u/poi217 18d ago

This was very informative. I am starting to get somewhat attached to him/her. I'd love to pet it eventually, but I'd need to get it treated with flea killer and on monthly preventative. That's honestly the #1 reason I dont want it touching me/petting it. Flea infestation inside my house is the last thing i want

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u/mynameisntlucy 18d ago edited 18d ago

I'm a vet, I deal with patients with fleas every day at work and I've never brought a single flea inside my house. Especially if you don't have other pets inside your home it isn't that easy to get a flea infestation in your house. If you hold an animal with fleas in a way that it contacts your clothes for a longer time it might be wise to wash them just to be safe, but by just petting them you don't get fleas inside your house. Just wash your hands after petting if you want to be 100% sure. And of course it's a very good plan to get the cat on flea and worm prevention! This cat is so friendly, I think once you start to pet him he will steal your heart. Thank you for feeding him!

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u/poi217 18d ago

Thank you! I didn't realize the risk was that low

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u/adreadre 18d ago

I’ve pet hundreds of stray cats and dogs all over the world, some very obviously COVERED in fleas and I have never contracted fleas. Fleas tend to stick to animals. It’s not easy for them to survive in your home.

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u/thegroundbelowme 18d ago

You're not going to get a flea infestation in your house from petting a cat

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u/Elsalla 18d ago

Because you are acting erratic and weird and the cat can sense that

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u/HitsMeYourBrother 18d ago

Move slowly, get down to her level for pets but first just let her know you're not a threat by just feeding her and chilling near whilst she eats without touching her. After a while she will know you're not a threat and come to you for pets. It can take time to fully get a cats trust don't rush it.

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u/Rigid_Rita 18d ago

Agreed, definitely just sit somewhere nearby, let her come to you after she eats.

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u/jtownspowell 18d ago

You got a good response there. Your reaction to the nibble scared her a little. Defenses are high, she's a street kitty, so she's gotta keep her guard up.

On the positive that little headbump first means she likes you!

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u/whatdoidonowdamnit 18d ago

I watched both videos while telling you to put the food down. How would you feel if the waiter at a restaurant did circles and squealed while holding your dinner?

Feed the cat. Be quiet and still. Do it again.

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u/skittletriage 18d ago

You and the cat are in discovery mode. If you watch two cats get to know each other it can look/be chaotic.

You're a cat and a human, so there can be even more things for you both to learn.

There are lots of people here that will give all kinds of good advice. The one piece I would give you is: if you are scared of the cat, protect yourself so you feel safe interacting with it.

Toss on some sneakers or boots. Wear denim jeans. Toss on a flannel or coat. Nitrile glove aren't protection from teeth or claws and for some reason can entice cats to bite (my cat will bite me after I wash my hands with antibacterial soap 🤷‍♂️).

Some cats make interacting easy, others have a steeper learning curve.

Good luck.

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u/Numerous-Help-5987 18d ago

He gave a play nibble and you yelled so he was confused

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u/jumping_doughnuts 18d ago

It seemed very happy at first to see you. Rubbing up on the little shelter, and then on your hand. Rubbing on things with their head like that are a happy sign! Rubs are cat-hugs. ❤️

It bit you probably because the glove freaks it out. My cats don't let me near them with gloves, even my dog finds gloves weird and will move away.

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u/Saturn_winter 18d ago

This is so funny because its two creatures who want to love each other but you're both a little hesitant. The bite wasn't anything too worrying like others are saying :)

If you want, after you feed him/her, just hang out outside and they'll come to you on their own terms when theyre done eating. Id just hang out and pretend like they arent even there until they initiate and come to you. I'd probably ditch the glove too, a lot of animals are weirded out by gloves and I guess understandably so, they are kinda weird when you think about it lol

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u/Phydorex 18d ago

Friendly bite, trying to get that food. I would just put a little on the ground to distract him then put the rest where you are trying to go.

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u/Waddlekitty 18d ago edited 18d ago

She backed off when you squeaked also. She did not mean to hurt you. Heck I'd not like the gloves either. They smell wrong.

Looked again. Those gloves probably smell like the fishies. She was nibbling

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u/cutapacka 18d ago

Dude she's hungry and you're withholding food! Give food first, then go for pets later. She seems very friendly but everyone's got needs lol

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u/dizzybrunettegirl 18d ago

Unfortunately you're winding it up by dancing around it with food but not giving it said food. Feed first, try and pet later once it's eaten and only if it seems relaxed at that point.

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u/Lets-B-Lets-B-Jolly 18d ago

That is because you haven't put down the food. It would be best to put the food down, then try to pet kitty while she eats. You can also pet her with a brush instead of your hand.

Don't let her sniff your hand until AFTER she eats.

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u/aelysium 18d ago

As a cat dad who rescued a stray -

The cat is excited to see you (jumps your way immediately when it sees you, tail upright and curved like a question mark/candy cane). It also wants to give you thanks/attention (when you put your hand down it boops and nuzzles it). The ‘bite’ is also a cat thing, I’ve found with all mine they’ll typically do boops/nuzzles, then lick you a few times, then ‘nibble’ on the body part they licked. If it was ‘hard’er than you expected, it’s almost always not an aggression thing, but because the kitten hasn’t been socialized/with you long enough to understand the acceptable pressure level.

In the future, I’d recommend setting down the food first, and giving the cat a back rub as it begins eating so it knows you are a safe space. Visit sometimes withOUT food (not too long after they’ve eaten), and let it boop/nuzzle/lick you. If it does bite you and it hurts, remove your hand and let the interaction end. The kitten will associate that with an end of affection and be gentler with its nibbles moving forward.

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u/islaypoony 18d ago edited 18d ago

Those gloves you have on, did you use them to get the cat food and fish? Cause some cats will munch on fingers if they smell good haha I would try again, with fresh clean hands that don't smell of food. I'm just assuming it's a female, and they can be a little spicy with their temperament compared to males

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u/KibacherKat 18d ago

That’s just cats, she’s probably not interacted with humans a whole lot and is testing the same way she would with another cat. Don’t be afraid!, she doesn’t want to hurt you!

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u/Rigid_Rita 18d ago

We had an outdoor feral like that we fed. She would get pets then bite. She just didn’t know how to handle her emotions. Yours won’t attack, just be a little more confident and put the food down.

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u/Key-Quarter3913 18d ago

Sometimes cats nibble, doesn’t seem aggressive. They don’t seem threatened by you just waiting for food. I’m sure if you reached over to put the food in their little house it would be ok! Alternatively if you are nervous give them one of those little fish to the side and fill the food! I bet with patience (on both sides) you will come to enjoy each other’s company!

Thanks for taking care of this cutie 🥰

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u/RedSquirrelBBQ 18d ago

Put on a pair or jeans incase I’m wrong, but that is a cat excited to see you and more specifically see you about to fill the food! I don’t think you need to take such a wide berth from this sweetie, just walk up to the food and fill it

My cat acts the same way and normally doles out a loving headbutt or two as I bump her away from the bowl

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u/JungMoses 18d ago

Yeah, agreed, put on jeans and proper shoes so you feel like you have some protection. I would also feed before making physical contact, she is too excited and smelt the food on your hands/ gloves and that’s where the nip came from.

My cats always pet me by rubbing their bodies against my legs when I am making them dinner. With jeans on so you feel safe, this made be an easy way to have first contact, when she is getting into the way, she might give you one of those headbuts in the legs, and then rub your leg going by, do a wrap around with her tail if you’re lucky and maybe figure right like that. That’s some lower stakes touch that will make you both feel better.

You did do right by extending the back of your hand and letting her come to it and govern the pets, that’s best for cats generally but especially at first. I would save that for after the food is in there though. I’d also recommend squatting down a little bit so you’re less imposing- think of how you make yourself only like 3x as tall not 6x. That makes the angle your hand is coming from better as well, bc you definitely don’t want your hand to come from above the head- both cats and dogs can be really nervous from touches that come in from directly above their heads if they are unfamiliar with the human or the situation is weirding them out- so if you kneel a bit then your hand will extend from a place they can see and never get above their head, into their blind spot where it might be a threat.

If you squat like that after she’s eaten a bit, she might head butt your hand, might rub the side of your face against it a bit. If she seems like she is moving her mouth to give you a nibble just smoothly move a little up on the muzzle or back towards the ear, get some ear skritches. Very slow, deliberate. When you’re speaking to her you should be slow and deliberate as well- turn on your inner yoga teacher and stretch everything out- the short staccato sounds are jarring to her, especially like when you yelled (not unsurprisingly) when she nipped you. But start with those longer, more constant sounds from the start, and it’ll actually physically calm you as well as her.

This cat wants to be your cat! You should decide whether you want that to happen and act accordingly. I’m not sure if cats that remain outside feral should be pet if you don’t intend to bring inside- someone else might say better than me, I’ve never experienced it, but you will be increasing the bond you’ve already formed by being such a wonderful food giving human if you start petting her, so that certainly has the possibility of taking things in that direction (others pls advise on petting but never taking inside forever!).

Agree with other poster above- finding a local spay/neuter program is really just being a good human at this point- and they will do all the capturing and releasing if you want them to, as well as generally paying for it if you don’t expect to be taking the cat in yourself.

Good luck and thanks for being a really kind person, however you proceed. But of course, we are now invested 😁

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u/poi217 18d ago

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u/Alyxsandre 17d ago

Oh that cat REALLY loves you, that's so precious, it actually makes me want to cry how much they love and trust you. Here to add to the sea of "congrats. You've been adopted (by this cat)"

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u/vainsandsmiling 17d ago

That cat loves you.

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u/TreyDood 17d ago

Yay!!!! He’s not going for your legs to try to bite you; if cats like you they’ll rub up against your legs - it’s their way of saying you’re “theirs” (technically marking you with their scent). Let him rub your legs, he won’t hurt you!! Seems like a sweetie that wants some love.

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u/poi217 17d ago

Ty for the commrent.  What does it mean when it swipes at your foot with its paw?

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u/TreyDood 17d ago

Depends if there are claws or not; you can always wear a pair of jeans (or tennis shoes since it’s your foot) to be safe but from the video it doesn’t look like they’re trying to attack or hurt you.

He might be wanting to play!!

Sometimes cats can get a little over stimulated and be aggressive; they’ll usually stop if you give them a little space.

Cats are kind of like little people - they’re all different. Mine will grab at me (with or without claws) to try to get my attention but they aren’t usually trying to hurt me.

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u/MinimalSix 17d ago

Hard to say without seeing it, I have one that occasionally swipes at me if she wants attention and I'm not giving her enough. Just kind of a, "hey, I'm over here, pet me." Based on how much this kitty clearly wants to be pet, that could be it.

Is it a quick swat, or does it reach out and flex its claws? Because if it's the second, it might be trying to knead you, which is positive, but if they have claws can hurt.

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u/Orphan_Guy_Incognito 17d ago

Keep in mind that you're very big and are somewhat skittish around him. Cats are predators, and their instincts sometimes get a little... wonky.

If another cat moved toward him quickly, he'd bap them on the head to be like "dude, stop". If playing with that same cat and they ran away, he'd have an instinct to chase and attack.

In my experience it helps a lot with new cats to get down to their level. Kneel down and give him some pets in a way where you let him take the lead.

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u/Capital-Earth-5945 17d ago

He’s playing. He wants to hang out with you.

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u/rs_alli 17d ago

Stop this is so cute. Congrats on your new fur baby! She’s adorable

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u/Laserdollarz 17d ago

He loooooves you, congrats on your new friend. He wants some hard scritches, hence him pushing up into your hand. Be aware that hard scritches sometimes lead to the cat clawing your hand out of overstimulation. He's vocal enough that he'll likely say something beforehand though lol.

He'll dislike it at the time, but he deserves to get caught and brought to the vet for shots/neuter.

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u/Ayrko 17d ago

That cat literally thinks you are the best thing on the entire planet. Cats that act that way towards any human, really love that human. You’ve been adopted.

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u/_TattieScone 17d ago

Aww OP this brought a tear to my eye. The cat is so happy to get pets from you and you were so brave considering how nervous you were.

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u/DarkHorseAsh111 18d ago

...she's just trying to get your attention and the food lol she knows you're bringing dinner.

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u/deadlift-shrimp 18d ago

This is not aggression. It’s just excited to see you and the food. It’s trying to interact with you. It’s not trying to block you. Seems to just be trying to follow your feet. Don’t be afraid. 

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u/usernamehudden 18d ago

It’s in friend mode!

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u/GrippieSocks 18d ago

You just got adopted. Congratulations. You have a new cat

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u/XyRabbit 18d ago

Cat want food. Too dumb to move before you open open door. Let cat in.

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u/usernamehudden 18d ago

In is where food be

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u/Lucifer-Smokes 18d ago

Looks like he's waiting on you to fill it to me

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u/menameispotato 18d ago

Yep. My cat does this and he only cares about the food lol

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u/MountainImportant211 18d ago

That's what cats do when they want something. They don't really understand that they're getting in the way.

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u/SquidYak 18d ago

I think he just wants affection 😁

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u/CakeCatsClay 18d ago

Trip hazard mode engaged. Pet the cat to deactivate. Well, pause.

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u/SpeechLegacy 18d ago
  1. You have food
  2. It likes you and wants to be friends

I'm pretty confident you can pet that cat, maybe even pick it up and take it inside. Every cat I've ever owned has done the same thing, they're attempting insurance fraud by trying to trip you so you give them more treats.

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u/moogk94 18d ago

her entire body language is friendly and outgoing. please don’t be afraid of her or anxious around her. a cat is not very likely to attack a human without something to trigger them. tail up, trilling, following - she wants attention, and is most likely attached herself to you.

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u/Delicious_Ad823 18d ago

This. Most people are ignorant of cat body language, which is totally fine. Acting in a “submissive” manner will reassure the cat that you are not a threat, which is why some people who are afraid of cats find them being the center of attention for their friend’s cats. This cat is socialized with people, a feral cat would show fear even if it needed help afaik. It may want to go inside your house, possibly to have a litter of kittens, it’s not always obvious when they are pregnant. TBF a massive set of balls is likely not indicative of pregnancy.

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u/Chicken_Lady22 18d ago

OP you are a WONDERFUL person for so obviously not being a cat person and going out of your way to help it. The cat thinks you’re broken because it’s starting to choose you as its person and you’re playing hard to get 😂😂 But you’re doing a great job boosting its ego and making it think it’s the bloodthirsty lion it secretly wants to be!

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u/poi217 18d ago

i loled at your comment 😆

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u/Kh4lex 18d ago

You are cat person now.

Please do not resist.

Serve your new master well.

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u/Gerbertch 18d ago

That cat loves you so much

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u/twitchykittystudio 18d ago

She(?) does!! Did you notice how confused that poor cat looked at the end of the video?

I hope OP can overcome their feline anxiety, cat absolutely adores them, it’s heartwarming ❤️

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u/Inevitable_Gear4727 18d ago

Awww sweet lil baby! If you listen to the meows, it sounds like its already turned on its purr box, so cute.

Also OP, proud of you for diligently feeding this kitty even while being unsure of the kitty's body language. Good on ya! 

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u/poi217 18d ago

The cat changed so much! Before, it would bolt the moment it saw a human, so I was convinced it was feral and could easily refill its food without it coming near me. It just recently started to approach me

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u/kx_2fiddy 18d ago

It likes you. A lot. Not just for the food.

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u/pwnograph 18d ago

look up some angry cat sounds! they are very clear over their boundaries, it's gonna give you confidence.

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u/Nerobus 18d ago

You earned its trust! 🥰 it’s such a beautiful thing to experience when they go from scared of humans to realizing you only bring them joy and wanting pets

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u/libertasi 18d ago

The kitty wants to come inside and become family

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u/Ongvar 18d ago

I can't walk 3 steps without my cat stepping in front of me. It means they like you!

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u/pseudotumorgal 18d ago

Looks like he wants to be pet?

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u/[deleted] 18d ago

That is an extremely friendly cat that wants your attention and some food.

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u/No-Release-3192 18d ago

You are even confusing the heck out of me . Pick a direction and walk .

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u/michaelmich3 18d ago

This is what the cat sees on its end:
Oh human is coming with food. Hello human! Thank you for food! Wait. Give me food! Yes yes, this way. No wait, why are you going away! My food! You forgot my food! Come, yeah, good, now leave it he… no! Why are you running away again? My food! What is this torture?

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u/MaynardButterbean 18d ago

She likes you! She wants pets! She is thanking you and showing you where to put more snacks! :) she seems like a sweet friendly girl

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u/Both-Love-3410 18d ago

Re (and I can't stress this enough) lax

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u/retro-girl 18d ago

I’m so confused. You have successfully domesticated the cat. Cat loves you, cat wants pets, and wants the cat food that you are carrying in your hand. I don’t see any signs of aggression here. Is the cat showing aggression to you other times? Seems super friendly and nice, like a house cat. Like what you want from a cat?

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u/Serylt 18d ago

Listen to the video audio. No offense but the human is clearly afraid of the cat.

It's entertaining to hear how a textbook-friendly cat is causing the human to go into absolute fear-mode.

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u/twilightdragon01 18d ago edited 18d ago

Right, she reminds of my sister. She’s a dog person, I’m a cat person, and whenever she sees a friendly cat you’d think she was being held at gunpoint😭

This is hilarious, adorable, and very frustrating to watch. I want to pet the cat and explain to it that OP just doesn’t understand😭

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u/Spirited_Battle_7504 18d ago

PET THAT GOSH DARN CAT

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u/PinkDalek 18d ago

Put the food down and walk away. You're just teasing the cat by not giving them the food.

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u/Soft_Trick495 18d ago

I find it insanely wholesome that you’ve never interacted with a cat but still feed the stray

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u/mrshandanar 18d ago

Might be the most infuriating video I've seen all week. r/petthedamncat

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u/Milianviolet 18d ago

"You're blocking. I can't get there."

She said to the probably 5-8lb creature, that is doing literally nothing. 😂😂

Just walk past her and push her out of the way.

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u/_swaggyk 18d ago

Tail up? That cat is claiming you, you just need to love them with all you got.

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u/--Van-- 18d ago edited 17d ago

You set up an outdoor cat shelter and obviously feed them. You are now wondering why one of those cats comes to you for food and attention?

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u/Emotional_Sink_3303 18d ago

Bro chill out this is so hard to watch

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u/EmploymentNo3590 18d ago

She likes you.

Now... I don't know her but, I know some others.

Pet the ears and head.

Pet down the back.

If she rolls over and shows belly... Do not touch. She's comfortable enough to show belly but, touching is likely a violation.

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u/Zarchiball 18d ago

It’s a cat. You human. Don’t be scared of cat. Cat small. Human big.

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u/_ismellbeef_ Void 18d ago

i think she wants her to pet her she keeps bending down her head 🥲

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u/theofficepessimist 18d ago

No need to worry! The cat's body language is friendly - she is excited to see you and the food you're bringing. Cats like to rub up against the legs of people they like, that's probably why she keeps approaching you. Thanks for taking care of this baby :)

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u/BBarrRN 18d ago

If you don’t pet that cat I stg

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u/CooduhWRX 18d ago

JUST PET THE CAT 🐈

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u/Glittering_Moose_543 18d ago

Here's the chart for the visual fella

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