Why Does My Cat Growl When I Pick Her Up? (Explained!)
Ah, the age-old struggle of the cat owner – to snuggle or not to snuggle?
As much as we may love to scoop up our furry friends and smother them with affection, our cats are not always as thrilled with the idea as we are.
In fact, some cats view cuddling as the equivalent of being trapped in a high-rise without a parachute.
And who can blame them?
When we pick up our precious bundles of fluff, we’re essentially restraining them in a place they never asked to be – I mean, would you enjoy being held in mid-air against your will?
It’s no wonder they fight back with their sharp claws and teeth.
While we may think we’re showing them love, all they’re feeling is terror.
It’s that communication gap again – what we think our cats like vs. what they actually like.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why your cat growls when you pick her up. By the end, you’ll know how to make the experience enjoyable and stress-free for both of you.
Or not. It depends in the cat, after all.
Key Takeaways
Why Do Cats Growl When You Pick Them Up?
Cats are both natural predators and prey animals in the animal kingdom.
Unless your cat is used to being picked up and trusts the person doing it, she might feel scared and vulnerable when lifted off the ground.
So growling is the cat’s way to express fear and her desire to get back on solid ground where she feels secure.
If, however, your cat’s warnings are ignored and she continues to feel unsafe, she may escalate from growling to making a hissing sound, as well as scratching and biting in her efforts to escape the perceived threat and scary situation.
It’s important to understand that in these intense moments, cats act on instinct rather than thinking rationally.
Even if your cat trusts you implicitly, she might still react defensively because her top priority is finding safety.
Let’s now look at some of the different reasons cats growl when you pick them up.
Discomfort And Pain
One of the most common reasons why cats growl when being picked up is because they are in pain or feel some kind of discomfort.
“Arthritis, dental disease, trauma, and infections are just some of the conditions that can cause pain and subsequent aggression when a cat is touched or thinks he or she might be touched, in a painful area,” explains Dr. Jessica Vogelsang.
“In addition to pain, cognitive decline, a loss of normal sensory input, or neurological problems can all lead to aggression.”
One of our Dubai street cat rescues, Oakley, has a “dent” in his spine where our vet thinks he must have been hit by a car.
He has prescription pain medications, but still, if you touch him anywhere near it – or even if he thinks you’re going to – he lashes out to protect himself.
Ironically, Oakley loves being picked up for a cuddle.
But I make sure I hold him in a way that he feels fully supported and make sure I never go anywhere near his back.
So sometimes, you may just need to find the best position for your cat.
Feeling Unsafe
While some cats are quite happy to be picked up and drape themselves around your neck or across your shoulders, others do not feel safe at all being suspended in mid-air.
I’ve found that the cats we have had from kittenhood are generally far more comfortable with being picked up than any of the adult cats we’ve rescued over the years.
While some don’t mind being picked up, they generally like to be fully supported so they feel safe.
To achieve this, I make a little “platform” with my hand for their back paws so they can ‘sit’ or ‘stand’ on the palm of my hand.
Fear And Anxiety
Cats, just like people, have a strong need for personal space to feel safe, secure, and in control of their surroundings.
When you pick up your cat, she no longer has control over her environment or whereabouts, which may make her feel scared and anxious.
Things like sudden movements, loud noises, new places, or encounters with unfamiliar people can also trigger fear or anxiety in cats.
These reactions can be intensified if a cat has had traumatic experiences in the past.
Trigger Stacking
Which brings me neatly to trigger stacking.
When cats find themselves in stressful situations, like going to the vet, moving house, having house guests, or when a new family member enters the picture, they may start to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with something they would normally be okay with – like being picked up.
“Trigger stacking” is a term used to describe a situation where multiple triggers or stressors accumulate and build up, leading to an exaggerated or overwhelming response.
It’s like adding one stressor on top of another, creating a cumulative effect.
Just like with humans, cats can experience trigger stacking when different triggers pile up on top of each other.
For example, let’s say your cat is already feeling anxious because of a loud noise, like fireworks or the garbage truck.
If she is then exposed to additional triggers, such as unfamiliar people, the vacuum cleaner, or a trip to the vet, it can further escalate her anxiety.
Each trigger adds to her stress levels, creating a “stack” of triggers.
She may reach a point where she can no longer cope.
This can result in more intense emotional or behavioral responses than if she were only experiencing the one trigger.
Understanding trigger stacking is important for cat owners because it helps us recognize that seemingly small or insignificant events can have a cumulative impact on our animals’ emotional state.
But by identifying and managing triggers effectively, we can help prevent our pets from going into emotional overdrive and provide the appropriate support and care.
Transferred Aggression
Sometimes, cats growl when you pick them up because they are already emotionally aroused and can’t handle anything else at that precise moment.
Let’s say your cat has just seen the neighborhood Tom cat passing by the window and is already on high alert in defensive mode, ready to zoom outside and chase him off her territory.
But you haven’t noticed that, and try to pick her up for a quick cuddle.
‘Not right now,’ says your hissing cat, expressing her displeasure with a low-pitched growl and a swift lashing out with her sharp claws.
This type of displaced aggressive response is known as “transferred aggression.”
It occurs when an unhappy cat directs an aggressive response to a stressful event toward the closest available target (in this case, you), usually due to underlying frustration or fear.
It is especially common when a cat becomes agitated by a specific stimulus or situation (for example, the aforementioned neighbor’s Tom cat), but is unable to direct her aggression toward the actual cause (because, say, the door is shut and she can’t get outside to shoo him off).
It’s important to note that transferred aggression is not a sign of a “mean-spirited” or inherently “aggressive cat.”
Rather, it is a result of the cat’s natural instincts and the way she copes with stress, fear, or frustration in a given situation.
It’s always important to pick the right moments to interact with your cat to prevent her from getting even more upset.
As with many things in life, timing is everything!
Lack Of Handling As A Kitten
If your cat didn’t receive much handling during her early kittenhood, she may not be terribly accustomed to human contact.
As a result, being picked up may make her feel uneasy, and she may growl at you to express her discomfort.
In addition, some cats have specific preferences when it comes to who they allow to pick them up.
This can happen when a cat has developed a strong bond with one particular person, and there is mutual trust between them.
So while your cat will accept being picked up by one or two specific people, for example, she is strictly off-limits to everyone else.
She Doesn’t Want To Be Picked Up!
In some cases, your cat may simply not want to be picked up.
Cats have their own preferences about how they are handled (or not!) and can be quite vocal when they don’t feel like being touched.
It’s best to pay attention to your cat’s body language to determine if she would actually prefer not to be picked up in the first place.
For example, if your cat’s body language and facial expression are soft and loose, with confident upright ears and a friendly upright tail with the tip slightly curled over, then that might be a good time.
But if she has dilated pupils, pinned back ears, a stiff posture, raised hackles, or an irritated swishing tail, it’s not a good idea to proceed and is in both of your best interests to steer well clear.
And if she’s busy eating, dozing, playing, or (eek!) fighting with another cat, that is most definitely not the time to pick her up.
Not sure if you are reading your cat’s body language correctly?
This great little video from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home provides the perfect overview:
What Is Growling?
Growling is a common behavior and a crucial part of feline communication.
It serves as a warning sign to other cats (or even humans), signaling them to stop whatever they are doing that the cat doesn’t like, and back off to avoid potential consequences.
“If an adversary or threat does not withdraw growling and yowling (a similar, but higher pitched sound than the growl) can continue for some while,” explains Certified Cat Behavior Consultant Trudi Atkinson.
Cats use growling in defensive and aggressive situations to express negative emotions, such as fear, anger, stress, frustration, and anxiety.
It is a harsh, low-pitched, vibrating, guttural sound that originates far back in the cat’s throat and can last for several seconds, explains Dr. Susanne Schötz, a Sweden-based Associate Professor of Linguistics who has conducted extensive research into feline vocalizations.
Growling is quite likely to be accompanied by other defensive or aggressive behaviors, such as hissing, flattened ears, a swishing tail, and a stiffened hunched posture.
How To Safely And Successfully Pick Up Your Cat
Now let’s look at how you can pick up your cat in a way that is safe and comfortable for her.
Build Trust
The first step in picking up your cat is to build trust and a positive relationship with her.
So spend plenty of time playing with her, grooming her, and supplying tasty treats.
This will help her associate your presence with good things happening and strengthen your bond.
Let Your Cat Control Interactions
It’s also important to let your cat be the one who initiates physical interactions.
So let her decide when and if she wants to be petted or picked up, rather than forcing it on her.
In the same way, allow her to leave when she has had enough.
There’s a reason our feline friends always make a beeline for the one person in the room that doesn’t like cats…
Because that person is most likely the only one not giving them any attention or trying to take control of the situation!
So there you go.
This handy graphic from International Cat Care provides an excellent visual of how to safely approach and handle a cat, including how and when to pick her up.
Use A Consent Test
A consent test is a great way to go a step further and “ask” your cat for permission to pick her up.
This helps you establish boundaries in a respectful way, understand your cat better, and strengthen your bond.
How? Your cat learns she can trust you because you will never force her to do anything she is uncomfortable with.
In a consent test, you let your cat decide whether she wants to interact with you or not.
It’s a way for her to communicate “yes” or “no.”
For instance, you can hold out your hand, and if your cat approaches or rubs against it, she’s saying, “Yes, I want to interact right now.”
On the other hand, if she ignores you or walks away, she’s expressing a clear “No thanks, I don’t want to interact right now.”
Even if your cat initially says “yes,” she may change her mind.
For example, she is okay with being petted, but when you make a move to pick her up, her body language changes and it’s clear she is not keen.
In this instance, the “yes” has become a “no” and it’s time to end your interaction.
In the same way, if you’ve picked kitty up all the way and her tail starts swishing back and forth, her body stiffens, she starts wriggling around or, yes, starts growling, she has reached her threshold and it’s time to put her back down.
Ideally in fact, you put her back down long before she gets to that point.
This is the best way to avoid her escalating into a negative emotional state and building her trust in you.
Here’s the British Columbia SPCA demonstrating what a consent test in cats can look like:
Training And Desensitization Techniques
To help your cat become more comfortable with being picked up, you can use a variety of training and desensitization techniques.
For example, you can start by firmly but gently touching her in the areas of her body where you would touch her if you were going to pick her up.
Gradually build up the length of time you touch her in those spots.
Add in a few small “lifts” – just a few inches off the ground then put her back down again.
Gradually increase the duration and height of kitty being lifted, while offering positive reinforcement through treats or gentle praise.
The Best Way To Pick Up A Cat
Start by placing one hand behind your cat’s front legs (palm up) and the other hand supporting her hindquarters (palm down).
Gently lift your cat so that all four paws are securely tucked against your chest.
If she begins to squirm, immediately loosen your grip and put her back down.
Make sure not to squeeze too tightly or drop her!
Once you’ve successfully picked up your cat a few times, you can start to carry her around with the same two-handed support until you can put her down in a safe place.
Remember your consent test and always put her back down before she starts to get uncomfortable, irritated, or scared.
This video from Cat School Clicker Training shows the best way to train your cat to enjoy being picked up.
(Note that I say enjoy. If your cat merely tolerates being picked up then that would be classified as a “no” in terms of the consent test):
Weight And Age
It’s important to keep in mind that a cat’s weight and age can also affect her comfort level with being picked up.
Older cats or those with illness or joint pain may be more sensitive to being held, while young kittens may be more eager for affectionate physical contact.
Always respect your cat’s boundaries and comfort level, and never force her to be held if she doesn’t want to be.
Alternative Handling Methods
Fortunately, there are a couple of alternative ways to interact with your feline friend that can reduce the need for picking her up in certain situations.
Cat Carrier
One option is to use a cat carrier for transportation.
This way, your cat can be safely contained and transported without the need for physical handling.
Carriers also provide a safe and comfortable space for your cat to retreat to when she needs some alone time.
Contactless Handling
If you do need to handle your cat, say to administer an injection or apply ointment, you may also want to consider using contactless handling methods.
These can include interacting with your cat through a cage door, a baby gate, or using gentle restraint with a towel.
Contactless handling can help reduce stress and anxiety for both you and your cat but may be best left to the professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Growling A Sign Of Aggression In Cats?
Growling can be a sign of aggression in cats, but it’s not always the case.
Sometimes, cats may growl as a way of expressing their discomfort or fear.
It’s important to pay attention to your cat’s body language and other cues to determine if she is feeling threatened or aggressive.
Why Is My Cat Growling All Of A Sudden?
One of the most common reasons a cat starts growling all of a sudden is physical pain, especially in older cats and cats who generally have a calm temperament.
Other reasons could include a sudden change in the environment, such as moving house, a new pet or baby, house guests, loud noises, or a visit to the veterinarian.
These types of events can be scary and stressful, causing a cat to be on high alert and lash out if she feels the need to defend herself.
It’s important to observe your cat’s behavior and try to identify any potential triggers for her sudden aggression.
If the behavior persists, it may be best to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical condition.
Why Do Some Cats Growl More Than Others?
Some cats may be more prone to growling than others, depending on their personality and temperament.
Some breeds, such as Siamese and Bengal cats, are known for being more vocal than others.
Additionally, cats that have had negative experiences with being picked up or handled may be more likely to growl in those situations.
Before You Go
Remember that every cat is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to picking up your precious pet.
So take your time, read her body language cues carefully, and stick with it until you find the way to hold her that she’s most comfortable with.
Talking of body language, have you ever heard someone say they were happily petting their cat, and then the cat suddenly bit them “out of nowhere?”
This is known as petting-induced aggression and I’ve written another article all about it. Check it out to make sure you don’t miss the subtle changes in your cat’s body language that warn you of possible impending aggressive behavior!
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Resources
- Cat Communication – Trudi Atkinson
- Cat Sounds Explained: The Growl [Video] – Dr. Susanne Schötz
- Causes of Sudden Aggression in Cats – Dr. Jessica Vogelsang
- How To Recognize When a Cat Doesn’t Want to be Picked Up [Video] – BC SPCA
- Teach Your Cat To Enjoy Being Picked Up [Video] – Cat School Clicker Training
- Understanding Cat Body Language | The Battersea Way [Video] – Battersea Dogs and Cats Home
NEED HELP FROM A CAT BEHAVIOR SPECIALIST? If you need more help dealing with a training or behavior issue, please find professional help from a certified feline behavior consultant. They will be able to offer you tailored advice for your cat(s) and situation. Good places to start are: - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants - COAPE Association of Pet Behaviourists and Trainers - American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior