How to make up with a cat you’ve hit?

If a cat misbehaves and you gave it a light swat, soothe it with snacks like dried fish and more play to reduce its fear of you, and never use hitting as punishment again.

If the cat was hit hard or often and now fears and guards against you, it is hard to reconcile quickly – it needs long-term companionship and communication to change its view. Before it warms up, don’t approach; give it time and a calm space to ease its anxiety.