Lap cats are the hearts of many homes. Such affectionate felines are known to love sitting on their owner’s lap. It is one such simple act that brings them lots of joy and comfort. However, not all cats can become a lap cat. Some may need some encouragement, while others do it quite naturally.
Why Some Cats Become Lap Cats
- Nature vs. Nurture: Some cats are born calm and affectionate. In most cases, breeds like Ragdolls, Persians, and Scottish Folds usually have very calm temperaments. These cats will, in most cases, turn out to be good lap cats. They need human contact and always like to be close to their owners.
- Trust and Safety: A cat’s choice to sit on your lap is a sign of trust. By nature, cats are very suspicious creatures. They allow only a few people to be in close proximity to them, provided they believe them to be safe or secure enough. If a cat selects your lap, it is indicative of the fact that they fully trust you. This trust is not developed overnight and requires a lot of patience. Gentle interaction is essential.
- Early Socialization: Much of a cat’s behavior comes from its early experience. Cats that have been socialized as kittens seem much more at ease with humans. They’ll be the lap cats. Good experience with humans in kittenhood is crucial, however. Such contact, at such a tender age, can mold their adult behavior into being the perfect lap cat.
How to Encourage Lap Cat Behavior
- Make Your Lap Inviting: Make him welcome. Ensure your lap is warm. You can keep a soft blanket there to make your lap more inviting. Cats respond to warmth and softness. By making your lap warm and cozy, you can entice your cat to sit with you.
- Be Patient: Forcing a cat to sit on one’s lap could be a real turn-off. Be gentle and patient instead. Provide gentle affection and let your cat come to you. Stroke your cat’s fur when they are near. Then, use very calm and soothing intonations when talking. Over time, your cat may finally learn to associate your lap with good experiences.
- Positive Reinforcement: Rewards may be used to encourage lapsitting. Offer a treat when your cat comes to you or lapsits. The point is to tie the action to a reward so that he’ll want to do it again. Just remember not to overfeed him. Obesity causes health problems.
Benefits of Having a Lap Cat
- Emotional Connection: Lap cats can provide a very strong emotional bond. The closeness of space physically may be comforting, too. Such bonding is good for both the cat and the owner. This can reduce stress and anxiety, creating peace.
- Warmth and Comfort: The body of a cat is warm. Thus, a lap cat can be quite comforting on cold days. As such, it can help to comfort aching and hurting parts of the body. This adds to the comfort of having a cat on your lap.
- Companionship: One of the greatest forms of companionship there is in cats is from a lap cat. Their urge or desire to be close to you is a sign of affection. Such actions on their part make a lot of cat owners feel loved and appreciated. This strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
Breeds That Make Great Lap Cats
- Ragdolls: The Ragdoll is probably one of the most popular breeds for lap cats in existence. Their nature is very calm and very affectionate. They love being held and will often approach their owners looking for comfort.
- Persians: Persians are a breed that has been bred to lounge around the house. Many of these cats love to sit on laps. They are very docile, making them one of the top breeds for a lap cat.
- Scottish Folds: Scottish Folds are sweet and affectionate. They tend to be friendly and like to be near their owners. This makes them likely to want to be a lap cat.
- Siamese: Siamese cats are social and affectionate. They bond closely with their owners and enjoy sitting on laps for attention and comfort.
- Burmese:Burmese cats are friendly and people-oriented. They love to cuddle and are natural lap cats, especially if well-socialized.
- Birman: Birmans are gentle and sociable. They enjoy relaxing on laps and have a calm temperament that makes them great cuddle companions.
- Maine Coon: Maine Coons, despite their size, are gentle and affectionate. They may sit on your lap or rest beside you, enjoying close contact.
- Tonkinese: Tonkinese cats are playful and affectionate. They seek out laps to relax on, enjoying both cuddling and interaction.
Pros and Cons of a Lap Cat
- Dependency Issues: Having a lap cat is very rewarding but it can be a little too dependent. Some cats can become overly attached. They may suffer from separation anxiety. They need a balance of being together and time spent apart.
- Hair and Allergies: Lap cats shed. This can create allergy issues in some people. Regular grooming helps to reduce shedding. However, potential allergy issues must be considered.
- Alternatives to Lap Sitting: Not all cats are fond of sitting on laps. There are those that may sit beside you and feel comfortable. Offering them a comfortable place to sit next to you still provides closeness. He can then be beside you but will not be forced into a position he doesn’t like.
Care of a Lap Cat
Regular Grooming
Grooming is essential for the lap cat. Regular brushing will allow the cat to shed less and also help prevent hairballs. Other than that, it provides an opportunity to bond.
Monitoring Health
Lap cats may need to visit health professionals more often. Be aware of changes in behavior, appetite, or weight. These might be indicative of health problems.
Stimulation of Mind
Although lap cats do enjoy sitting with their owners, they still require mental stimulation. This can be provided through interactive toys and puzzle feeders, both of which should provide some challenge. A provision for regular playtime is also important in ensuring they receive adequate exercise.
Lap cats provide unique companionship and warmth that can case a living room. By understanding his behaviors and needs, you would be able to succeed in producing a mutual, trustful relationship. Whether he turns out to be a lap cat through time or has been one since he first arrived, this connection will be rewarding and full of love.
