Cats are often misunderstood as aloof and independent creatures, but they can be very affectionate and loving towards their owners. They have different ways of expressing their feelings, which may not be as obvious as a dog’s wagging tail or licking face. However, if you pay attention to your cat’s body language and behavior, you will notice many signs of their love and trust. Here are some of the common ways cats show affection towards their owners:
Slow Blinking
Cats often display affection by giving a slow, prolonged blink. This is a sign of contentment and trust, much like a smile from a human. When your cat blinks slowly at you, they are telling you that they feel safe and relaxed with you. You can return the gesture by blinking back at them, which is also known as “cat kisses”.
Headbutting
Your feline friend might bump their head against yours or rub cheeks against yours to show their love. This is also a way of marking you with their scent, which means they consider you as part of their family. Cats have scent glands on their forehead, cheeks, chin, and ears, and they use them to leave their signature on objects, people, and other animals they like.
Kneading
You may have noticed your cat kneading its paws on your lap, your bed, or your favorite blanket. This is a behavior that cats learn as kittens, when they knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk production. As adults, cats knead when they are happy and comfortable, and they may also drool or purr while doing so. Kneading is a way of showing gratitude and affection to their owners, who provide them with warmth and security.
Bringing Gifts
Cats are natural hunters, and they may sometimes bring you their prey or toys as gifts. This may not be very pleasant for you, especially if they bring you a dead mouse or bird, but it is a sign of love and respect from your cat. They are sharing their bounty with you, and showing you that they trust you enough to reveal their hunting skills. You should praise your cat for their generosity, and dispose of the gift discreetly if you don’t want it.
Playing
Cats love to play, especially with their favorite humans. Playing is a way of bonding with you, and showing you that they enjoy your company. Cats may chase, pounce, wrestle, or bite you gently during playtime, which are all signs of affection and trust. They may also initiate play by bringing you a toy or running around you. Playing with your cat is not only fun, but also good for their physical and mental health.
Sleeping
Cats sleep for about 16 hours a day, and they choose their sleeping spots carefully. They prefer places that are cozy, warm, and safe. If your cat sleeps with you or near you, it means they love you and feel comfortable around you. They may also cuddle with you or curl up on your lap while sleeping, which are signs of intimacy and attachment.
Following You Around
Cats are curious animals, and they like to keep an eye on what you are doing. They may follow you around the house, sit next to you while you work or watch TV, or greet you at the door when you come home. They may also meow or chirp at you to get your attention or start a conversation. These are all ways of showing interest and affection towards you.
Rubbing Their Tail on You
Another way cats mark their territory is by rubbing their tail on you or other objects. They have scent glands at the base of their tail, which release pheromones when they rub them against something. This is a way of claiming ownership and showing loyalty to their owners.
Licking You
Cats groom themselves by licking their fur with their tongue, which has tiny barbs that act like a comb. They also groom each other as a social behavior, which helps them bond and maintain harmony in a group. If your cat licks you, it means they consider you as one of their own, and they want to share their scent with you. Licking is also a sign of trust and cares from your cat.
Exposing Their Belly
Cats are vulnerable when they expose their belly, as it exposes their vital organs to potential predators. Therefore, if your cat rolls over on their back and shows you their belly, it means they trust you completely and feel safe with you. It is also an invitation for belly rubs or playtime.
Gazing Into Your Eyes
Cats are very expressive with their eyes, and they can communicate a lot with them. When your cat gazes into your eyes, it means they are comfortable and confident with you. They may also dilate their pupils or narrow their eyes when they look at you, which are signs of excitement or contentment. However, you should avoid staring back at your cat, as this may be interpreted as a challenge or a threat. Instead, you can blink slowly or look away to show respect and affection.
Meowing
Cats meow for various reasons, such as to ask for food, attention, or help. However, they also meow to express their feelings and emotions to their owners. Cats have different types of meows, such as high-pitched, low-pitched, long, short, or trilling. You can learn to understand what your cat is trying to tell you by paying attention to their tone, pitch, and frequency of meowing. Meowing is a way of communicating and showing affection to their owners.
Cats are wonderful companions, and they have many ways of showing their love and appreciation to their owners. By learning to recognize these signs of affection, you can strengthen your bond with your cat and make them feel happy and loved.
