Things to avoid if you have a cat...

Too much cuddles. For many cats, being caught, caressed or followed closely is a source of stress. They tell us when they want attention, meowing or rubbing on our legs. To regulate ourselves, we pay attention to their body language: a little attention is enough to understand if our affectionate gestures make them uncomfortable.

Lack of attention. There are shy cats and cats who like to be the center of attention, but they all have one thing in common: they don't want to feel abandoned. Even if our commitments force us for many hours away from home, leaving our kitty can only be a problem for a long time: abandonment anxiety can lead to a crisis of aggression, with damage to objects (from scratched sofas to "accidents" outside the litter). When we come home from work, therefore, let's not forget to spend 10 minutes with our cat: he will make him happy and relaxed, but so will we.

Intruders in their territory. Cats are territorial animals and any new presence in their space can be a source of stress; applies to children (who love cats a lot but often are not loved in return) but also for dogs or other cats. If you bring a new one at home, even if he is a puppy, pay attention to how the two interact: the instinct to establish itself as an "alpha" example can cause even fierce fights and battles.

Loud noises. Horns, thunder, fireworks, screams or loud music, but also an abrupt sneeze, can alarm a cat and trigger its aggressiveness: it is the answer to fear and the feeling of danger. If we can't avoid outside noise, let's at least try not to slam the doors or scream in the house.

Nail cutting. This practice, which may seem normal to us, is a trauma to the cat, which can feel severe pain and become stressed and vulnerable. The cut is not recommended especially for cats that are used to going outside, because it deprives them of their natural defenses.

Travel. Cats do not like traveling at all: creatures of habit, they love their routine and their territory. In addition, a moving vehicle can create stress and discomfort even physically, with episodes of vomiting. If we really have to move with our cat, the carrier is indispensable: an animal in its arms can run away and jump into the cockpit of the car, with serious risks for us and for him!

Don't give them a private space. For a cat, having a "comfort zone" is essential. For this we have to create a corner for him - a kennel, a closet, but also a lined cardboard box - where he can feel comfortable when he feels like it. Cats do not like forced contact with human beings, and giving them space to be alone is a gesture of love and respect.