Molesey Vets on Teaching Cat Handling to Children
October 22, 2026
This September, the RSPCA has launched a new campaign highlighting how to be kind to cats, aimed especially at younger children who may be less familiar with proper care and handling guidelines.
Our vet Darren Partridge explains that in the age of social media, there’s a new flurry of ‘funny cat’ videos and, unfortunately, some of these come at the cat’s expense. For young children, we know it can be confusing not knowing how a cat is feeling, especially without the right resources. That’s why at Molesey Vets we want to spread awareness of the key points of the campaign, helping to educate young members of the family on how to be ‘a cat hero’.
Want to know more about how your cat communicates? Book a check-up with us at Molesey Vets and Darren Partridge or a member of our team can talk through any behaviour questions you have, big or small.
How to show respect to cats
Below, Molesey Vets sums up the RSPCA’s cat kindness guide, which is ideal for talking through with children.
- Give them space – Darren explains that cats are independent animals. If they aren’t showing signs they’re comfortable or want to interact, it’s usually best not to force interactions such as touching or picking them up.
- Learn their language – If your cat is slow blinking, purring, or has their tail pointed straight up when they come towards you, this usually signifies a happy and comfortable cat. However, if they’re tense, flicking or thumping their tail, hissing or growling, or staring with big eyes, this is a sign they may feel uncomfortable or threatened.
- Keep them safe – Make sure your cat is treated as a valued member of the family, with access to food, water, shelter and care when they need it.
- Be kind online – If you see something online that doesn’t seem right, such as a video of a scared or uncomfortable cat being mistreated, try not to like or share it.
- Speak up – If you see signs of animal cruelty, or a cat that’s hurt, abandoned or unwell, tell a trusted adult. They can contact the cat’s vet or the RSPCA.
The internet ethics
Darren recognises that funny cat videos are a much-loved part of internet culture, and many of these are heartwarming. However, some common ‘trends’ may unintentionally distress cats, such as scaring them to get a reaction, dressing them up, or sharing moments of them hissing or trying to escape. Darren explains that although some cues aren’t always easy to spot, these situations can be incredibly frightening for a cat and can contribute to long-term anxiety.
At Molesey Vets we love helping children learn to understand what their pet is telling them, building a happy bond between your cat and the whole family.
If you’ve noticed signs that your cat may be feeling anxious or unsettled, our team in East Molesey would be happy to help. Book a wellness appointment today.
