What is the first part of the body you should grasp when picking up a cat?

Grasping the scruff of the neck is the proper technique for picking up a cat because it mimics the way a mother cat carries her kittens. When a cat is grabbed by the scruff, it often induces a calming effect, as many cats instinctively yield to this hold, allowing for a smoother handling experience. This method supports the cat's body effectively, ensuring that its weight is distributed without causing harm or discomfort.

Using the scruff also allows the handler to maintain better control of the cat during the process, which is crucial for both the safety of the cat and the person handling it. It's important to ensure the whole body is supported after the initial grasp, but starting with the scruff is a well-established practice in veterinary handling.

Other methods, such as picking up by the tail, front paws, or back legs, can cause distress and discomfort to the cat and potentially lead to injury. Therefore, starting with the scruff is the most humane and effective way to handle a cat safely.