A new research study shows that while most cats really enjoy being petted, other cats simply tolerate it, and a few cats absolutely get stressed out when you pet them.
Apparently, the cats are less stressed if they are in a home with other cats, since then they can more easily maneuver themselves out of the way of any unwanted petting.
When there is only one cat, it gets all the attention, whether they like it or not; and thankfully, the study showed that most cats really enjoy being petted and having a lot of attention.
So, if it seems like you have a cat that is aloof and doesn't like being petted, it is nothing to worry about; you just have one of the few cats that are loners, and want to be left in peace.
Most of the cats I have had seemed to really enjoy the attention, and at least liked being around me, and I don't think I ever had one that didn't want me to pet it.
