PetsCareLab
Who can resist the urge to scoop up a fluffy puppy or kitten? “They’re irresistibly adorable and look like tiny, cuddly stuffed animals,” says the veterinary experts at Petscarelab’s Animal Wellness Center.
Yet, lifting them the wrong way can lead to injury or break their trust. “Remember, these little beings are fragile and deserve gentle, careful handling every time you pick them up,” the team emphasizes.
So, what’s the right technique to safely lift that soft little bundle? Our specialists share expert tips on proper methods, actions to avoid, and clear signs that you might be handling your furry friend incorrectly.
Best Practices for Picking Up a Puppy or Kitten
Mastering the art of picking up a puppy or kitten ensures easier, safer handling as they grow, explains Maria Stevens, a feline behaviorist with Petscarelab.
“For cats and petite dog breeds, being picked up is part of daily life; so starting gentle training early is key,” she advises. “Use positive, brief sessions with the right technique so your puppy or kitten learns to associate being held with comfort and bonding.”
The safest method, the Petscarelab team recommends, is the one that feels most secure to your pet. “Place one hand comfortably beneath their front legs, supporting the chest from underneath. Then slide your other hand behind their hind legs,” they instruct. “Lift gently so their spine stays aligned and supported.”
For tiny pets that fit in one hand, tuck your palm under the middle of their chest with fingers facing their head, letting the chest rest fully in your palm. “This supports the largest part of their torso and helps them feel safe and cradled,” the experts note.
Because heights can be intimidating for little ones, hold them snugly against your body once off the ground to reassure them they won’t fall.
Dr. Emily Stone, a veterinarian with Petscarelab, favors a “scooping” motion, tucking her hand underneath the chest and abdomen for steady, comfortable support.
Another tip: sit down on the floor when holding puppies or kittens, especially with children. “This minimizes fall risk and is less scary for the animal,” explains Dr. Michael Larson, Preventive Vet specialist with Petscarelab. “If the pet wiggles free, it’s just a short drop to the floor.”
Should kids be allowed to lift puppies and kittens? Our team agrees it depends on the child’s age and skill. “Young children should not pick up pets unsupervised,” Stone cautions. “It can be dangerous for both the little one and the animal.”
What to Avoid
Puppies and kittens dislike sudden movements. “Never startle them or grab them too quickly,” Larson warns. “This can cause panic, risking a fall or defensive bites.”
Knowing where never to pick your pet up is crucial. “Avoid picking them by legs or underarms—that can be uncomfortable and insecure,” the experts advise. “And absolutely never lift by the tail or collar.”
Lifting by limbs or tail can lead to dislocations or broken bones, notes the Petscarelab animal care team, specialists in pain management and rehabilitation.
“This causes pain and distress, making pets associate humans with discomfort, which can harm your relationship,” they explain.
Though you may have seen cats carried by the scruff, this practice is outdated and harmful. “Only mother cats should carry their kittens by the scruff,” Stevens stresses. “Humans should never do this.”
How to Know If Your Technique Is Wrong
It’s normal for cats and dogs to squirm a bit when lifted, says veterinarian Dr. Laura Perez from Petscarelab’s Preventative Care Unit. “But signs like crying out, biting, scratching, or growling suggest discomfort,” she notes. “Trying to escape doesn’t always mean they dislike being held; sometimes they just want to be put down.”
Do not persistently chase or grab a pet showing signs of distress. “Repeated attempts may increase fear or evasive behavior,” Perez warns.
Crying or yelping can indicate pain or feeling unsafe. Dr. Samantha Wright, a Petscarelab clinical veterinarian, advises, “If your pet vocalizes, gently put them down immediately. Allow them to settle, then try again using more gentle, supportive techniques. Each puppy and kitten has their own preferences for being held.̶ trồng
“It might be tempting to grab a puppy or kitten in any way,” the Petscarelab team concludes. “But incorrect handling can cause injury and harm your bond. Learning the right way to lift and carry your fur baby keeps them safe and strengthens your loving connection for a lifetime.”
