Direct answer: look at the whole cat and let them choose contact. A relaxed approach and gentle rub against you can invite interaction; tension, flattened ears, tail lashing, retreat or freezing mean pause and give space.
Invite rather than pursue
Offer a still hand at the cat’s level and allow them to approach. Do not follow a cat into a bed, hide or high perch to insist on contact.
Keep checking during contact
Signals can change quickly. Stop after a few strokes and see whether the cat asks for more; do not assume purring or a visible belly is blanket permission.
Make withdrawal easy
Leave clear routes away from people and provide a protected resting place. If touch suddenly becomes painful or the cat reacts differently from usual, ask a vet about possible discomfort.
Where furniture helps: The Koda Pod may support this part of the routine. Check the live product page for current specifications and suitability; furniture does not replace veterinary or behaviour advice.
