- Cat neck scruff. One common behavior that many cat owners may have experienced is their cat’s reaction when they are picked up by the scruff of their neck. But does it hurt a cat to be picked up by the scruff? This is a question that has sparked a lot of debate among cat owners and professionals in the field. Before attempting to scruff your cat to give them medication, it’s important to understand the proper technique and approach. We used to think exactly what you said- it mimics a mother cat and calms them down. In summary, holding a cat by the back of their neck can trigger the scruff reflex or tonic immobility, but it’s essential to handle your cat with care and respect their boundaries. Feb 26, 2025 · The loose skin around a cat's neck is called the scruff. They don't like having their back legs hanging down. This action seems to relax the cat and make it more docile, but why does it work Scruffing a cat can provide a valuable method of containment when you need to restrain her for medical treatment, training, or safety reasons. Whether it’s to move them to a different location, administer medication, or simply to show affection, the scruff grab has been a debated topic among pet owners and professionals alike. It involves grabbing the loose skin on the back of a cat’s neck and lifting gently to immobilize the cat’s body. Unlike feline moms, I avoid picking cats up by their scruff because most react in much the same manner to the neck pinch even if their weight remains supported by an exam table, carrier, chair, my other hand, etc. This action may seem harsh or even cruel to some people, while others believe it is a natural and harmless way to handle a cat. This is sometimes accompanied by lifting the cat up or heavily restraining the cat in other ways. For example: Scruffing a cat; holding back skin when suturing; holding an animal’s tongue (use gauze); helping deliver/pull kittens and puppies; holding a microscope slide; hanging X-rays; quickly clamping an IV line, then Mar 1, 2025 · To scruff a cat is to hold them by the thick fur on the back of their necks. There is a widespread myth that because a mother cat moves her kittens by holding the scruff, it’s OK to do it to an adult cat. This rather amusing act of transport is known as cat scruffing, or scruffing a cat. It’s also how mama cats carry their kittens. The scruff is the loose skin at the back of the cat’s neck and it may seem logical to carry a cat this way, after all, this is how mother cats carry her kittens around. It serves many purposes for both the animal and its owner. Scruffing is a technique that involves grabbing a cat by the loose skin on the back of its neck in order to restrain or control it. It's important to know how to do it safely and understand when it's appropriate. Picking an Adult Cat Up by the Scruff of the Neck While it is usually fine to pick a kitten up by the scruff of the neck, this is not recommended when it comes to adult cats. Feline and veterinary experts recommend against this technique, as it is based on an outdated idea that adult cats who are scruffed relax. Cats are known for their independent and sometimes aloof nature, but they can also be very affectionate and loving pets. Let’s talk about “scruffing” or grabbing a cat by the nape of the neck, to move, hold, punish or control a cat. Scruffing is where the cat is grasped by the loose skin on the back of the neck. It is mostly observed among cats and allows a mother cat to carry her kitten easily with her jaws. When done correctly, holding a cat by the scruff can help calm them down and make them feel secure. When a mother cat picks up her kitten by the scruff, it triggers a natural response in the kitten to go limp and relax, making it easier for the mother to transport them. A lot of people do it, but is it safe for cats? Is It Ok To Scruff A Cat? Cat owners often find themselves faced with the dilemma of whether or not it is okay to scruff their feline companions. Jul 12, 2012 · Q. To help you navigate this process, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on scruffing a cat to give medicine. Also, when you lift a cat always support its body weight with both hands. Further research into cat behaviour has shown that’s not true. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about scruffing in cats – from its origins to how to do it properly. This technique mimics how a mother cat carries her kittens and is commonly used for restraining cats during medical procedures or to control aggressive behavior temporarily. Feb 9, 2025 · Learn when scruffing cats is appropriate and when it becomes harmful. Should You Pick an Adult Cat Up by the Neck? For adult cats, scruffing should never be used to lift them completely off the ground. Mother cats will often pick up their kittens by the scruff to move them from place to place. It is important to handle your cat with care and respect to maintain their emotional well-being. While this practice may seem harmless, there is much debate surrounding its effectiveness and ethics. When it comes to handling cats, especially adult cats, there is often a debate about whether or not it is safe to pick them up by the scruff of their neck. Many people have responded to my video on how to pick up cats with questions about picking up a cat by the back of the neck (scuffing). It’s the method of cat restraint most veterinary professionals were originally taught. Scruffing is commonly used by veterinarians and animal handlers to perform exams, administer injections, or groom the cat. There are very strong opinions on rather or not to scruff a cat at my clinic. Jul 21, 2024 · Wondering why cats bite each other's necks? There are multiple reasons for this kind of cat behavior. This instinct is a remnant of their kittenhood, where mother cats would carry Oct 20, 2022 · Have you ever wondered why your cat likes to be scruffed? Or what the proper way to scruff a cat is? Scruffing is a natural behavior for cats, but it’s also one that can be easily misunderstood. Here’s what we know: The “flexor reflex,” causing cats and That said, you can scruff an adult cat as long as you don't lift it or pull it. Here’s what we know: The “flexor reflex,” causing cats and kittens to go limp when picked up by their scruff, stops within the first few weeks of life. Sep 17, 2024 · Here's why veterinarians advise against scruffing a cat, a restraining technique that could cause pain, anxiety and more. Sep 2, 2023 · What is does grabbing a cat by the scruff hurt them? Grasping a cat by the scruff, the loose skin around their neck, can cause discomfort but generally does not hurt them. As with anything in our ever-changing world, we know so much more about training and working with cats now, and it’s up to us to advocate for best practices when we’re thinking about how we live with our cats. To Jun 19, 2023 · Learning how to pick up a cat is important to keep your kitty happy and healthy. I've see my vet use this on my cats when they were freaked out and about to bolt. Jul 12, 2023 · Ever wondered why your furry friend seems to freeze when you grab the scruff of their neck? It’s a common question that leaves many cat parents puzzled and even a bit concerned. I live in a state where you don’t need a license/registration to do tech skills so I was trained at my clinic and, other than Can picking up a cat by the scruff lead to behavioral issues? Picking up a cat by the scruff can cause fear, anxiety, and stress, which may contribute to the development of behavioral issues. Understand the age limits and alternatives to scruffing for better cat handling. This reflex can be useful in a variety of situations, from mother cats caring for their kittens to veterinarians performing procedures. Remember to reward good behavior during handling sessions with treats or praise. Traditionally, scruffing (grasping the cat by the scruff of the neck) has been considered an acceptable way to maintain control of a cat because it does not harm the cat if done properly, and it is effective in many cases. When a mother cat picks up her kittens by the scruff, it triggers a reflex in the kitten that causes them to relax and go limp. This was used to mimic the restraint a mother cat uses when holding her kittens, often used to move Feb 24, 2025 · Introduction Picking up a kitten by the scruff is something many people assume is safe because mother cats do it. This phenomenon has puzzled cat owners for years, leading many to wonder why do cats get paralyzed when you grab their neck? To understand this behavior, we must first look at the anatomy of a cat. In fact, they don't relax, and scruffing may escalate their defensiveness. The scruff is the loose skin on the back of a cat’s neck, which is where mother cats typically grab their kittens to move them from place to place. Oct 20, 2020 · At one time or another you’ve probably witnessed a mama cat carrying her kitten around by the scruff of its neck. But is this the right way for humans to handle kittens or adult cats? Understanding feline behavior, anatomy, and proper handling techniques is crucial for cat owners, veterinarians, and animal caregivers. Even though this restraining technique has been widely used for so long, it’s […] Oct 4, 2024 · Scruffing is a general term for a variety of holds on the skin of a cat’s neck. This behavior is an instinctual response that helps cats avoid potential harm in the wild. Learn why, as well as better ways to handle cats in stressed situations. Don't lift by the rib cage or stomach and don't lift them by grabbing their legs. Apr 1, 2022 · Learn how to safely restrain or scruff a cat with this educational video by Stray Cat Alliance. This technique uses clips to gently squeeze the skin at the back of the cat’s neck. 350 votes, 32 comments. One common question that arises is whether it is okay to pick up kittens by the scruff of their neck. However, it is crucial to avoid this Aug 31, 2023 · Similarly, cats with certain medical conditions, such as arthritis or neck injuries, may experience pain or discomfort when their scruff is grabbed. Scruffing Cats and Dogs What is a dog or cat’s scruff? The scruff is the loose skin present behind the animal’s neck. Is it safe for me to pick up my cat by the scruff of the neck? Picking up a cat by the scruff of the neck should be done with caution and only when necessary. When cats are grabbed by the scruff of their neck, it triggers a reflex that causes them to go limp and immobile. spi0n. This technique, known as scruffing, mimics the way a mother cat would carry her kittens and can be a useful tool for handling young felines. Jan 9, 2024 · What is scruffing? In the past, before wider research was done into cat friendly handling techniques, a common way to restrain a cat was by “scruffing”. Save your cat some trauma at the vet’s or even during such times as nail-clipping at home. Scruffing a cat means holding it by the back of the neck and restraining its movement. This is a natural behaviour that is Jan 17, 2025 · Cats biting each other’s necks is a common behavior and natural instinct observed in feline communication. This is just plain wrong. In technical anatomical/medical terminology, the nape is also called the nucha (from the Medieval Latin rendering of the Arabic نُخَاع, 'spinal marrow'). Aug 19, 2015 · Veterinarians and other pet professionals sometimes use this response to their advantage when they grasp the skin on the back of a cat's neck (an area called the "scruff") with their hands, producing the same response seen when mother cats grasp kittens. Dr Karyn tells us about this controversial method Jul 14, 2025 · Learn when and how to scruff a cat safely, plus how to lift cats properly for stress-free handling. The scruff of the neck is not designed to support the full weight of an adult cat and can cause pain and stress if you pick them up. Jul 29, 2021 · Scruffing is a handling technique in which the loose skin on a cat's neck is grabbed. Subscribed 80K 10M views 13 years ago from http://www. Scruffing is the act of grasping the loose skin high on the back of a cat’s neck. This area has a very poor blood supply and insulin absorption is thus rather erratic from this area. While this is a natural behavior that mother cats do with their kittens, experts warn against humans doing it because it causes fear and stress in our feline friends. Kittens have an instinct to go limp… Position statement on Scruffing Cats ‘Scruffing’ is a term used to describe restraining a cat by firmly gripping the loose skin at the back of the cat’s neck. Cat scruffing can be used as a method to safely transport your cat, to gain control when nail trimming or administering a medical May 15, 2007 · The Clipnosis® Gentle Calming Clip™ has a calming response similar to when a mother cat picks up her kitten (scruffing). more Using a clip chip is a variant of “scruffing” a cat, and it’s not recommended. Scruffing may immobilize a cat, but it also freaks them out. It is advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a professional cat handler before attempting to scruff a cat, especially if it is for the first time or for a specific medical procedure. Sometimes these bites are on the scruff of the neck, while other times they happen in Mar 5, 2020 · Kitty Clipnosis - It Sounds Like a Disease But Isn't! Clipnosis, also known as pinched-induced behavioral inhibition, is a phenomenon that happens when mama kitty grabs the scruff of a kitten’s neck to carry them around. One common approach— picking up a cat by the scruff —is often misunderstood. Here’s an article about scruffing and the Jul 6, 2025 · If you have more than one cat, you may have noticed that cats have a tendency to bite each other on the neck. Pick the cat up under the chest with one arm and use the other to support their butt. Mounting: While holding her by the scruff, he will mount her back. This method of handling should be reserved for kittens and should not be used as a regular means of transport for adult cats. Researchers have named the process “clipnosis” because it relaxes the cat, much like hypnosis might. Aug 14, 2023 · No. And while it’s okay for infant kittens, you should never scruff an adult cat. If your cat struggles or meows, let it go and try a different technique. When done properly and only when necessary, scruffing a cat (holding a cat by its scruff) is an effective method of restraint, although it may look uncomfortable or even painful to the cat. When a cat is held by the scruff, it triggers a natural response that causes the cat to go limp and be more compliant. This method is often depicted in nature, where mother cats carry their kittens by the scruff to move them safely. HOW TO USE CLIPNOSIS GENTLE CALMING CLIP: 1. Nape The uncovered nape of a maiko 's neck Cat carrying a kitten by its nape, known as the "scruff" The nape is the back of the neck. Thousands of new, high-quality pictures added every day. Scruffing has been a common practice in cat handling for a long time. This action, known as “scruffing,” is often seen as a way to control or restrain cats, especially in situations where they may The scruff reflex is a natural behavior in cats that can be triggered when the skin at the back of the neck is stimulated. Scruffing your cat or lifting them by the skin on the back of their neck is frightening and painful for your cat. 12. Apr 2, 2025 · Scruffing a dog refers to the practice of grasping the loose skin at the back of a dog's neck, known as the scruff. Mar 11, 2024 · The Scruff Reflex Explained Have you ever wondered why cats seem to freeze in place when you grab them by the neck? This behavior is actually rooted in a biological response known as the scruff reflex. Scruffing involves grasping the loose skin at the back of a cat’s neck, known as the scruff, which many believe leads to a natural submissive behavior from the cat. Mar 3, 2025 · While it is okay to pick up your cat and remove them from the area, you should never scruff your cat. Lifting a cat or suspending its body weight by its scruff (the skin on the back of its neck) is unnecessary and potentially painful. In 2008, a small study was done where researchers used 2-inch binder clips, to effectively scruff a cat over the dorsal neck area during veterinary examinations and observed the results. While some people may feel hesitant about using this method, it can be a safe and effective way to handle a cat when done correctly. Picking up a cat by the scruff is a common practice that many cat owners have likely seen or heard about. Feral cats and big Toms have a lot of neck and shoulder muscle which they use to just work the scruff right out of your hands no matter how tight you've got it. Oct 20, 2022 · To scruff a cat properly, you should grab them by the loose skin on the back of its neck and hold them close to your body. The Scruff: Once the female is receptive, the male will typically approach from behind and bite the scruff of her neck. But When a cat’s neck is grabbed, it triggers the scruff reflex, causing the cat to become still and passive. As told by our customers, this handy item’s gentle clamping action has dozens of practical uses. By gently grasping the scruff, some cat owners believe they can easily control their pet without causing harm. But scruffing just to get better control of the head, while kitty has their full body weight supported, should be okay, when necessary. Here’s how to hold a cat properly so they stay comfortable and have a positive experience. Jun 19, 2025 · Have you ever wondered why your cat goes limp when you grab their scruff? Our vet-approved reasons will answer all your doubts and more! The scruff is the loose skin on the back of a cat’s neck, which is the same area where mother cats pick up their kittens to move them. The scruff is the loose skin on the back of a cat’s neck, and it is often used by mother cats to carry their kittens. The only time an adult cat should be scruffed is at the vet when necessary for them to run tests/examination. Jun 16, 2021 · Using this method, you can calm cats naturally. So whether you’re a curious cat lover or simply want to learn The scruff is the loose skin at the back of a cat’s neck, which is often referred to as the “scruff. NOTE: When the cat’s owner is trying to connect with the cat or affectionately cuddle him, picking a feline up by the scruff of his neck is NOT the best method of carrying him. This action can be safe and effective for humans to use when handling kittens or very small cats, as it mimics natural maternal behavior and can help to calm the cat. Feb 7, 2025 · Picking up a cat is a routine part of cat ownership, but the method matters. Is scruffing a cat safe for handling? Explore the effects, alternatives, and tips for gentle techniques to keep your cat comfortable and stress-free. This is a natural behaviour that is Scruffing Cats and Dogs What is a dog or cat’s scruff? The scruff is the loose skin present behind the animal’s neck. But does grabbing a cat by the scruff hurt them? Cats are known for their agility, grace, and independence. Feb 25, 2015 · Either cat or handler is often going to come out of it badly. Rough play biting and aggressive biting are two different behaviors, and it’s important to differentiate between them. Is It Ok To Grab A Cat By The Scruff? Cats are known for their independent and sometimes aloof nature, but they also have unique behaviors that can be confusing to their human companions. Scruff an adult cat without support of the back end - Some cats can weigh 10-20 pounds and scruffing a cat of this size and letting her weight hang can cause serious injury to the neck muscles and skin. Scruffing is also used by tom cats when mating with queens and during fighting. It is definitely painful to lift an adult cat by the scruff. com A veterinarian put standby a cat with a plier. Feb 23, 2025 · 2. Avoid tilting their head back or squeezing too tightly, as this can be dangerous. Reply . The scruff is the loose skin on the back of a cat 's neck, where the mother cat would pick up her kittens when they were young. One such behavior is the act of grabbing a cat by the scruff of their neck. Although not generally advised for humans due to the potential for injuring your pet, grasping an animal by the scruff of its neck promotes submissive behaviour in the animal. Unfortunately, that argument is flawed. The Feb 26, 2025 · As cats grow, this reflex fades, and their increased body weight makes lifting them by the scruff potentially harmful. It's a technique often used by a mother dog with puppies, but should it be used by humans? Learn the do's and don'ts. The thought behind this is that kittens relax when their mom carries them by the scruff. Jun 19, 2025 · Scruffing is grabbing and holding/lifting a cat by the loose skin on the back of its neck. This inborn response causes kittens to become limp and allows a mother cat to carry her kitten by the scruff of its neck without the kitten struggling or becoming agitated. However, if you’ve ever tried to pick up a cat by the scruff of its neck, you may have noticed that it becomes suddenly paralyzed. If you have ever seen this, the kitten seems to dangle with their back feet up and front paws curled in. Use an area further back around the hips or flank The scruff is the loose skin on the back of a cat’s neck, and it is a natural instinct for mother cats to pick up their kittens by this area. Does picking cats up by the scruff hurt them? A. A veterinarian explains. Cats are only grabbed by the scruff on their neck in limited circumstances, and none of these situations are helpful to mimic in a home, veterinary, or shelter setting, yet some people recommend scruffing your cat to discourage bad behavior. This is mom’s way of subduing their young in order to transport An adult cat isn’t meant to be lifted by the scruff, and they’re much heavier than they were as kittens. This is to hold the loose skin on the back of a cat’s neck firmly, while simultaneously restraining the rest of the body or lifting. Christianne Schelling demonstrates how to safely scruff a cat. What Is Cat Scruffing For? We need only look to nature to find perfect examples of its The scruff is the loose skin located on the back of a cat’s neck, and it is often used by mother cats to carry their kittens. Oct 30, 2013 · In general, scruffing tends to be more effective in young versus adult animals, but individual responses vary regardless of age. Mother cats only carry kittens by the scruff for the first few weeks of Bear in mind, if the vet chooses to hold your cat by the scruff, it should be done briefly and gently. When a mother picks up her kitten by the scruff, he instinctively tucks up his legs and stays still. Aug 12, 2025 · What Happens During Mating? Approach and Courtship: The male cat will often vocalize (yowling, calling) and engage in other behaviors to attract the female. Understanding cat social hierarchies and dominance is crucial in comprehending why cats engage in neck biting. International Cat Care is against the use of scruffing as a method of restraint, because of the stress and distress it can cause to cats. I have been teching for a little under 5 months and would like to hear from more experienced ones. Veterinarians and other pet professionals sometimes use this response to their advantage when they grasp the skin on the back of a cat’s neck with their hands, producing the The scruff is the loose skin located on the back of a cat’s neck. If you’ve ever wondered how to pick a kitten up or whether picking a cat For many cat owners, the act of grabbing their feline friends by the scruff of the neck is a common occurrence. The scruff What if you pick up a cat by the scruff? - briefly Picking up a cat by the scruff, the loose skin on the back of its neck, is a behavior often seen in mother cats when they move their kittens. Scruffing is a technique used to hold and control a cat. ” In the wild, mother cats will use their mouths to grasp their kittens by the scruff in order to carry them or move them to safety. While mother cats carry kittens by the scruff, does that mean it’s safe for humans to do the same? This article provides an in-depth breakdown of scruffing, whether it’s safe, when (or if) it should be used, and the best alternatives Can I pick up a cat by the scruff of the neck? No, a kitten or cat should not be picked up by the scruff of the neck. How can I help my cat feel comfortable and secure in Jun 5, 2025 · To get started, remove your cat's collar if it's wearing one and grab the scruff, or loose skin, at the back of your cat's neck. So, does grabbing cats by the scruff hurt them? The answer is not a simple yes or no. It may cause them to be fearful or distrusting of you, thus damaging the bond that you have fostered. For an adult cat the action of a human scruffing it is frightening and puts the cat into an un-relaxed and guarded state. They have unique behaviors and characteristics that can sometimes be puzzling to their human companions. Cats are fascinating creatures that have been domesticated for thousands of years. Their body weight puts excessive strain on their neck, leading to discomfort or even injury. Scruffing Cats ‘Scruffing’ of a cat is a term used to describe restraining a cat by firmly gripping the loose skin at the back of the cat’s neck – this is sometimes accompanied by lifting the cat up or heavily restraining the cat in other ways. Find Grab Cat By Neck stock images in HD and millions of other royalty-free stock photos, illustrations and vectors in the Shutterstock collection. Some techs are very passionate about never scruffing, and some scruff the majority of cats. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when using this method. And it’s certainly not the most respectful or appropriate way to pick up or handle your cat. I do think that picking up an adult cat by the scruff Oct 13, 2022 · What is Scruffing? Scruffing includes using a hand behind the cat’s neck to hold a large amount of skin, aiming to imitate the way a kitten’s mother transports its kittens, causing a cat to relax their limbs. One interesting behavior that many cat owners have observed is the calming effect of holding a cat by the scruff of its neck. People might use it as a means of disciplining their cats, getting them into a cat carrier, or Nov 17, 2022 · Scruffing a cat is a method used to pick up cats by the skin on the back of the neck to hold and restrain them. It will help to minimize stress and anxiety associated with routine care and minor procedures. Giving them medicine is necessary. So The scruff is the loose skin at the back of a cat’s neck, which allows mothers to carry their kittens from one place to another. Lifting a cat or suspending its body weight by its scruff (the skin on the back of its neck) is unnecessary and could be potentially painful. 10. However, it is essential to handle cats gently and Jun 19, 2025 · It used to be commonplace to see cats held, restrained, even carried by the scruff of their neck. Aug 14, 2019 · Many of us were taught that “scruffing” a cat—or grabbing the animal by the loose skin at the back of the neck—is not only an effective mode of restraint, but also causes cats to relax. Should I be concerned if my cat bites the back of my Please see this FDMB page: It says "Most people, including veterinarians, make the mistake of injecting the insulin into the scruff of the neck. 11. Nov 11, 2014 · Cats have a natural response that causes them to be still and calm when the loose skin or “scruff” of the neck is pinched. Pinch-induced behavioral inhibition (PIBI), also called dorsal immobility, transport immobility, clipnosis, or scruffing, is a partially inert state that results from a gentle squeeze of the nape, the skin at the back of the neck. In this article Why does my older male cat keep biting the back of my younger male cat's neck and wrapping his front leg around him? Dr. The scruff is the loose skin located on the back of a cat’s neck. In particular, it’s the use of the scruff that gets us mad. Any other time, do not scruff them. gyxvwi1 xkfk24ub cq1g by4b 0lj y3wge 9dvfh zdhr ighqo imwnqaez
