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Cats are fascinating creatures—independent yet affectionate, curious but cautious. As much as we love them, cats sometimes struggle with stress, especially in unfamiliar environments. Did you know that reading to your cat can help reduce anxiety, strengthen your bond, and even bring them joy? Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how this simple act can transform timid or wary cats into confident and relaxed companions. Whether your cat hides from visitors or simply enjoys quiet moments, reading aloud can work wonders.
How Reading to Cats Can Enhance Their Happiness
When a new cat comes to The Great Catsby, it's crucial for me to establish a trusting relationship. Many of these new arrivals find it daunting, not only because they are separated from their humans, but also because they are in an unfamiliar environment. The faster I can earn their trust and form a positive bond, the sooner the cats will settle in. A settled cat is a happy cat, and being settled means they're more likely to eat, use the litter box normally, and return home as if they'd never been away.
After researching ways to increase a cat's happiness, I came across studies from American rescue shelters that read to their animals. While the cats staying with me come from loving homes, the same principles apply, and I share the same goal: helping cats settle and ultimately be happy while they're away from home. And if the cats are happy, their owners can relax too!
The Benefits of Reading to Cats
You might be wondering, "Can reading to cats actually help them?" While they can’t understand the words, cats are highly intuitive and respond to things we don’t always notice ourselves. Although reading is a simple act it has many benefits, including:
Reducing Stress: Reading to your cat usually involves a soft, soothing voice, which helps ease stress and anxiety.
Promoting Relaxation: The gentle tones and rhythmic flow of reading create a calming environment, helping cats feel safe and secure.
Strengthening the Bond: Spending quality time reading to your cat fosters connection and affection. Even 5 to 10 minutes a day can make a difference.
Building Trust: Cats are naturally curious but cautious. While you're preoccupied with reading, your cat can gain confidence and feel more comfortable around you.
Providing Attention: Cats enjoy being included in your activities, whether it’s watching TV, preparing meals, or reading. It makes them feel valued without being overwhelmed.
Tried and Tested
Reading is one of the additional one-to-one sessions available during a stay at The Great Catsby, and it’s something I’ve seen that's had a profound impact over the years.
Take Lily and Marnie, for example. Their owner visited beforehand, concerned about her timid house cats, who were used to her constant company. The thought of leaving them in a cattery was a huge worry: How would they cope? Would they feel lonely and abandoned?
Lily and Marnie arrived with their own beds to provide familiar scents and a safe space. While their owner expected them to hide in their carriers, I used my trusted techniques for anxious cats—including reading sessions. Over each 20-minute session, we built trust and confidence. By the time they went home, Lily and Marnie were lounging in their wall beds, rolling around and looking relaxed. They didn’t seem in any rush to leave! You can read Angela’s review on Google to hear more about her experience at The Great Catsby.
What Should You Read to Cats?
By reading anything aloud our cats get to hear our calm soothing voice, as we're busy focussing on the words we tend to forget everything else around us, the tension in our bodies eases and we go into a more relaxed state. And cats notice and respond to this.
As long as you’re reading aloud, your cat can hear your voice, then you can read whatever takes your fancy. Personally, I don’t think it really matters what you read whether it's a romantic love story, the latest gossip from a magazine or a cat-filled adventure. But with today’s fast-paced, on-the-go busy lives I’ll gladly accept any excuse to switch off, have a mini digital detox and unwind with a cat or two!
Obviously, my book of choice when reading to cats is the Classic Tail, The Great Catsby!
How Do You Read to a Cat?
Reading to a cat is easy and stress-free. My own children used to love reading to our cats when they were younger, even our reluctant reader would sit with Nala and read a book for pleasure! It's usually easier to read aloud when no one is really listening or can correct you if you make a mistake.
Here’s how to create the perfect setup:
Find a Quiet Spot: Choose a comfortable chair or a cosy corner away from distractions.
Eliminate Background Noise: Turn off the TV, radio, or other devices to create a peaceful atmosphere.
Get Comfortable: Grab a cushion or blanket and settle in.
Include Your Cat: Provide space for them to join you, whether on your lap or nearby.
Start Reading Aloud: Don’t worry about making mistakes or skipping words. Your cat doesn’t mind!
Reading at The Great Catsby
If you’d like your cat to enjoy extra one-to-one time during their stay, I offer additional bedtime treat packages. These 20-minute sessions include uninterrupted time where I curl up with your cat and read to them. During the session, your cat receives soothing attention without the distractions of cleaning or feeding routines.
Along with reading, I provide bedtime treats such as Dreamies, Webbox sticks, or Lick-e-Lix. For health-conscious cats, 100% natural Thrive treats are also available. This package costs just £5 and can be added at any time during their holiday. You can log into your account or let me know when you arrive to add this special experience.
Final Thoughts
Reading to cats might seem quirky, but it’s a proven way to help them relax, strengthen your bond, and create a peaceful environment. Whether you’re curling up with your cat at home or booking a bedtime treat session at The Great Catsby, this simple act of connection can have lasting benefits for both you and your feline friend.
Have you tried reading to your cat? I’d love to hear about your experiences. Share your stories in the comments or send me a message to book a bedtime treat session for your cat at The Great Catsby. Let’s keep our feline friends happy and relaxed, one story at a time!