Massage for cats

Some cats, like Della, are naturally laid back and relaxed in almost every circumstance.   This permanent sanctuary resident has an easy going and confident nature and nothing seems to stress her.   A great many cats are prone to anxiety however – going to the vet, illness and even minor changes can upset them.   It’s well know that massage is of benefit to dogs, so why not cats?   It’s something they have known since they were born when their mother started to lick them.   A cat’s tongue is rough and this vigorous grooming was their first therapeutic massage.   It stimulates the kittens and increases their circulation and blood supply.  Mum knows instinctively that it’s good for them.

Older cats too can benefit hugely from the relaxation and help that massage brings.   Rackham was anxious because he was undergoing treatment at the vet for his teeth problems – he hated the sight of the cat basket.    Massage helped to calm him down, it can make pain become easier to bear or even disappear.    It’s also helpful in increasing mobility and flexibility of joints and only takes a few minutes to do.    Stroking animals is said to lower blood pressure in humans so it will be good for you too.

It’s not difficult to do, when your cat is either sitting on your knee or by your side or, better still is on a table, you can begin.  Make sure the cat has something soft to lie on so that he is comfy.  Start by stroking rhythmically in one direction only.   I like to put music on, a bit of Mozart is very soothing but anything you and your cat like.  Slow, steady stroking from head to tail will aid relaxation.   If you are aiming to give your cat energy, faster stroking will be stimulating.

When your cat is relaxed you can move on to soft pressure massage which helps with circulation.   Use the palm of your hand in a gentle kneading motion covering the whole body, including the face, if it’s liked.    If this goes down well you can begin gently picking the skin up between your fingers, releasing it almost immediately.    It’s believed that cats who are frequently massaged will have fewer immune system problems than other cats.   It will increase the amount of oxygen that reaches tissues and flush out any toxins.

Myrtle has enjoyed being massaged after an illness when she was a youngster , she has enjoyed good health ever since and and is one of the most placid cats ever.     A cat massage need only take five or ten minutes and can be done whenever you have time to spare and your cat is agreeable.   Most cats get to like their massage session and it’s obviously beneficial for your cat to be accustomed to being routinely handled.   It’s a good way to strengthen the bond between you and a new cat or one with a somewhat distant personality, also it enables you to discover any problems that may arise at an early stage.  Tender spots or soreness need to be checked out by a vet.

Don’t use massage oil as your cat will ingest it when he grooms himself.  Don’t attempt to manipulate the cat’s limbs.   If the skin is broken, inflamed , swollen, torn or bruised  then massage is not the answer.   Similarly, injuries, lumps or tumours should not be massaged unless your vet advises, as you can make the condition worse.   Check with your vet if you are at all unsure.

Only massage cats that are in good health.    Massage has been used as an aid to health throughout the centuries.   The cats skin is his largest sensory organ and gentle massage helps to release chemicals in the bloodstream that have a very beneficial effect on the hormonal levels.   If your cat enjoys being massaged his stress levels will come down – maybe yours will too.