ANSWERS

Now tally up your points!

33–40

Your cat is very bonded to you and not afraid to show it! You’ve done a terrific job of making your cat feel relaxed, loved, and confident

and your cat clearly loooooves spending time with you. Your cat trusts you, enjoys your company, and knows that good things happen when you’re around. Congrats on understanding your cat and giving her what she needs to feel at home and happy. This outgoing cat is likely naturally affectionate by nature, which, in a safe, loving, cat-friendly environment like the one you’ve created, results in a happy, lovey cat likely to engage in social behaviours that create social bonding.

25–32

Your cat is bonded to a high degree, but is not the super touchy-feely cat. Your cat still feels socially close to you, but is more the strong, silent type. Even though slightly less affectionate by nature (this cat will likely never be draped across your shoulder), your cat is still just as bonded to you as any cat can be. That said, this bond can usually be improved upon with activities to get your cat used to more physical affection and interactions with you.

17–24

Somewhat bonded, but not as bonded as they could be.

Your bond needs some work but there is definitely a connection. This cat may dish out friendly behaviour but on his own terms when he feels like it. Spend more focused time with your cat (i.e. playing and engaging your cat, not just watching Netflix together). Work on spending quality time with your cat and doing things he loves and you will see your bond strengthen!

10–16

Not bonded yet. Your cat can take you or leave you, as long as you feed him. You are not considered a preferred associate or your cat may even be wary of you. There is still hope. Some cats just need more time with their owner and more bonding activities that build trust, like playtime, grooming, petting, and positive interactions. Never discipline a cat as this can break the bond and hinder a bond from forming. Some cats are by nature more timid and fearful or are in environments that are too chaotic. This can get in the way of bonding and you may need to adjust expectations for these cats.

Under 9

This cat is scared and feels unsafe. You need to start from the beginning, giving your cat a small, safe space to call her own, as you would when introducing

a new cat to your household. Spend some time just quietly sitting in proximity to your cat and let her get comfortable with you in her own time. Don’t force her to come to you. Give her time to get acquainted. Pheromones therapy can also help (see page 22). (If you have a multi-cat home, territory issues could be at play; make sure there are enough resources, like litter boxes and towers to promote timesharing.) You may need to consult a feline behaviourist to help you encourage your scared cat feel at home with you.

If your cat doesn't score #1 keep in mind that some cats are simply less outgoing and affectionate by nature. You can also always, always work on your bond. For a more affectionate and confident cat, implementing the following bonding tips can lead to a cat that is more relaxed, happy, engaged, and confident, and therefore more likely to bond with you.