Picking up cat by scruff of the neck

Question
QUESTION: Hi. My question is is it uncomfortable/painful or harmful to a cat to be picked up by the scruff of the neck? I pick my cat up by the scruff of his neck occassionally, and he doesn't seem to mind I had heard previously that this was perfectly fine, but the other day I read on-line that it can hurt them, and leave bruises etc! Now I am very concerned and upset I would NEVER do anything to intentionally harm my kitty. I adore him! Thank you.

ANSWER: Jennifer,

While this may be great for kittens, if the cat has a rather robust body type, there can be bruising and tearing of muscles unless you support the back end as well. You should almost never have to scruff a well behaved cat.

Best regards... Norm.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Norm. Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my question. I appreciate it. I hope you won't mind a follow up question. How do I know if I unintentionally injured my cat on the few occassions I picked him up in this way? Thanks.

Answer
Jennifer,

The best way to tell a cat is feeling "off" is that the behavior changes.  For example, normally, cats like being scratched between the shoulders. If something is amiss up there, the cat will let you know in no uncertain terms it is unhappy about being handled there.

I hope this helps.

I am always happy to answer follow up questions!!!!!!!!!!

Best regards... Norm.