Odd behavior

My neighbors cat comes here to eat and drink because they've pretty much abandonned him since they've split up.
I don't what to make of his behavior. He doesn't try to run away yet he growls, purrs and acts friendly ALL at the same time while rubbing himself against my legs. Why is he growling? How odd!!
Has anyone seen this before? Is it because he's still familarizing himself with me and doesn't quite know how to react yet or is he simply sending me a warning of "don't touch"? He'll sometimes try to swat my hand. Do some cats not like to be touched at all? He is neutured btw which is a good thing.

Oops, sorry.
I knew there was a section for that...should have double checked.
Thanks for moving it.

Originally Posted by Catgal

. Do some cats not like to be touched at all?

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Yes. My Joji is one. Well, I should say, she decides when she wants to be touched.

Originally Posted by Catgal

... yet he growls, purrs and acts friendly ALL at the same time while rubbing himself against my legs. Why is he growling? How odd!!
Has anyone seen this before? Is it because he's still familarizing himself with me and doesn't quite know how to react yet or is he simply sending me a warning of "don't touch"? He'll sometimes try to swat my hand. Do some cats not like to be touched at all?

Click to expand...

Yes, some cats hate the touching.
But I think the combo purr/growl/friendly may be do to what he is experiencing at his own home now. A split has probably left in feeling sad, insecure, yet in need of attention. You are a kind soul who is feeding him, but you are not his "people." I suspect the growling will eventually stop. If he is rubbing in and out of your legs he definitely is wanting attention. I doubt he is the type of cat that permanently hates to be touched. Keep working with him.

And if they are ignoring him, did you consider offering to adopt him from them???