WHAT THE BEST WAY TO HOLD A CAT?

That depends on the cat's state of mind. If you're looking at a cat who's scared or angry, the best way to hold her is to get someone else to do it! If you must get your cat under control, you can scruff her: Take a firm hold on the loose skin at the nape of the neck -  and we do mean firm, like a mama cat who means business!

Otherwise, the best way to pick up your cat is to make sure you're not suprising her when you do so. Say something to get her attention, then scoop her under the midsection and then hold her under the chest with one hand while your other hand supports her hind end. Better still, let her chest rest against yours while you support her rump from below.

If you're holding a cat who's suddenly in a panic, the best things you can do is let go. Once a cat reaches that flight-or-fight threshold, you do not want to be the thing she's trying to defeat or runaway from. Razor-sharp claws and teeth like hypodermic needles are nothing to mess with. Let go!