would anyone have tips for feeling more cat-like? i’ve tried doing catty stuff like kneading but i’m having trouble getting into the headspace ):
my linktype is a domestic cat by the way [:
As a cat you knead when you feel good, comfortable! It's an instinct tied to feeling safe at your mother's side as a kitten, kneading on her when you drink her milk. Think about what gives you this feeling of comfort now. A certain place, person, action? Kneading in itself might help make you feel cat-like, but it's a hollow action if you do it just in an attempt for that! (not saying that because I assume it's what you do, but simply pointing out the importance of the reason for it)
What kind of cat are you? An indoors one, outdoors one? What are places inside the home you really like? Personally I relate to how cats often want to jump onto furniture they shouldn't be on. I like sitting on tables and counters. I'll lie down on them if I can. Stuff like that, if you can do it, do it! But for example if a table isn't sturdy enough to hold your weight, don't do it lol.
Do you like to play as a cat? Of so, throw your hands at stuff like they do, like slap some curtains, throw stuff (that can't break) off the table, get on the floor and punch and chase stuff around.
Humans can't perfectly imitate purring, so maybe put on a Youtube video of a purring cat to help you ground that feeling of cat-like contentment when you experience it.
If you're an outdoors cat, you can imitate their outside behaviour a bit. Sometimes when cats see something interesting, they stop in their tracks, then quickly advance, stop again; basically hunting. Sometimes they will just sit and very intently observe everything around them. Sometimes they nap. If you're wanting somewhere, close your eyes for a lil, even if you can't allow taking a nap for real in public.
Generally, when you experience something mundane, ask yourself "What would a cat think of this and how would they interact with it?". Looking at a cupboard? Does it have interesting handles or holes? Put paw in that to figure out what that is and what it does. A door? Push it open with your body instead of hands. Re-evaluate mundane things from a feline perspective!
All these suggestions of course come with "Do only what is socially acceptable in company of other humans" if being looked at weird would give you anxiety or if you'd get bullied. Stay safe 🧡 I hope this helps! I'm wishing u the best ^w^
