Greeting a Strange Cat

When making friends with a strange cat, be polite. Make brief eye contact if he will. Squat down or bend over, offer a hand, speak quietly and warmly, and wait.

If he approaches you, that's great. Allow him to sniff your hand if he wants, then give him a gentle stroke under his chin. He'll stay if he's enjoying himself, move closer if he wants more, and retreat if and when he's had enough.

Don't try to pick him up yet. He'll jump up if he wants to be in your lap. Do not, repeat not, chase after him if he doesn't want to make friends. The time might not be right or he just needs more time to get to know you.