7 Sneaky Tips to Get Your Cat to Cuddle More

Let’s be honest: cats are weird. One moment, they’re all up in your face purring like you’re their world, and the next, they’re giving you side-eye for daring to exist.

If you’re dreaming of having a little cuddle-buddy, the good news is you can gently nudge your cat toward being more affectionate. It’s not that easy, but it’s possible.

Here are 7 tips to help turn your cat into a snuggle-loving furball. Or at least one that tolerates a hug now and then 😉

1. Respect Their Space (Even When It’s Annoying)

Cats are like introverts at a party—they need their space, and they will let you know when you’re overstepping. If you want your cat to cuddle, don’t force it.

Let them come to you. Trust is key here, and nothing screams “I don’t trust you” to a cat like you grabbing them while they’re mid-nap.

Pro tip: Sit near them but don’t touch. Your cat will eventually decide you’re cool enough to approach.

2. Know Their Love Language

Cats have their own ways of showing affection, and it’s not always cuddles. Some cats are lap-sitters, while others prefer to chill next to you or nuzzle your face.

Figure out what your cat likes and start there. Maybe they don’t want to be held but will happily curl up beside you. That counts as a win!

And hey, if your cat starts “gifting” you dead bugs or staring at you creepily while you sleep, congratulations—they love you. In their own, weird way.

3. Be the Source of All Things Good

Want to be your cat’s favorite person? Feed them.

Every.

Single.

Day.

Cats associate food with love, so being the one who fills their bowl makes you the MVP of their world. Bonus points if you throw in some treats every now and then—nothing says “cuddle me” like bribery.

Also, don’t forget playtime! A tired, happy cat is more likely to flop into your lap after chasing that feather toy for 10 minutes.

4. Make Your Lap the Ultimate Chill Spot

If you want your cat to cuddle, you’ve got to make it worth their while. Think soft blankets, cozy spots, and maybe even a heating pad (on low, of course). Cats love warmth, so turning yourself into a walking heating pad is basically cheating—but hey, it works.

Oh, and don’t move around too much. Cats hate when their perfectly comfy perch suddenly decides to stand up and walk away. Stay still, and you might just earn their trust.

5. Use the Power of Positive Reinforcement

When your cat does decide to cuddle, make it the best experience ever. Give them gentle pets, head scratches, or even treats when they sit in your lap. Over time, they’ll start to associate cuddling with all the good stuff in life.

But don’t overdo it. If your cat’s giving you “I’m done” vibes, back off. Nothing ruins cuddle time faster than overstaying your welcome.

6. Mimic Their Natural Affection

Ever notice how cats greet each other by touching noses or rubbing their heads together? That’s their way of saying “you’re cool.” Mimic this by gently offering your hand for them to sniff or softly rubbing their head. It’s like speaking their language, and they’ll appreciate the effort.

Just don’t go full-on nose-to-nose unless you want a paw in the face.

7. Be Patient (Because Cats Are Cats)

At the end of the day, some cats are just more cuddly than others. You can’t force a cat to be a snugglebug, but with time and trust, they might surprise you. The key is patience. Even if they’re not climbing into your lap every five minutes, they’re probably showing their love in their own way.

And remember: sometimes, just sitting nearby or curling up at your feet is their version of a hug. Take what you can get!

Final Thoughts

Getting a cat to cuddle isn’t about forcing them to be something they’re not. It’s about building trust, respecting their boundaries, and maybe bribing them with treats now and then.

Follow these tips, and you might just find yourself with a purring fluffball in your lap. Or, at the very least, one that tolerates your hugs without immediately plotting your downfall. 🙂