But I found that both cats and dogs do enjoy gentle stroking and scratching behind their ears.
People can tell whether an animal likes something or not, just by paying attention to their reaction.
Kitties love shoulder rubs, too. One of our cats can’t have her face and head rubbed enough and strenuously, too. The guy will allow one finger occasionally along his nose. He loves his chest and chin being rubbed, but she doesn’t. When you hold him while standing, he stiff-legs you to get as far away as possible. He does like being cradled on his back. She, on the other hand, will NOT let you hold her on her back. But she’ll drape over your forearm and let you pet her.
Two kitties as different as day and night.
Don’t get me started on the dog...