Cats have a reputation for being aloof and independent, but the truth is that they have unique ways of expressing affection. From slow blinks to kneading, our feline friends constantly send us signals of love that we may not always recognize.
A study published in Current Biology found that cats form strong social bonds with their human caregivers, similar to dogs and even human infants.1
Understanding these 12 often overlooked cues can strengthen your relationship with your cat and make them feel truly cherished.
1. The Slow Blink
One of the most well-known ways cats show affection is through the “slow blink.” When a cat looks at you with a relaxed gaze and slowly closes and opens its eyes, it’s giving you a kitty kiss.
This behavior is a sign of trust and contentment, indicating that your cat feels safe and happy in your presence. Cats are more likely to blink slowly at their owners after they have slowly blinked at them first.
So, next time you catch your cat’s eye, try giving them a slow blink and see if they return the gesture!
2. Kneading
Kneading, also known as “making biscuits,” is another common way cats show affection. When a cat kneads, it rhythmically pushes its paws in and out against a soft surface, such as a blanket or your lap.
This behavior stems from kittenhood when kittens knead their mothers’ bellies to stimulate milk flow. As adults, cats continue to knead as a sign of contentment and love.
If your cat kneads you while purring, consider it a huge compliment – they’re essentially saying that you make them feel as safe and loved as their mother did.
3. Headbutting & Cheek Rubbing
Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, chin, and forehead, which they use to mark their territory and the things they love. When your cat rubs its head against you or bunts you with its forehead, it shows affection and claims you as its own.
This behavior, known as “bunting,” is a cat’s saying, “You’re mine, and I love you.”
So, the next time your cat headbutts you or rubs its cheeks against your hand, know that it’s marking you with its scent as a sign of deep affection.
4. Following You Around
Does your cat always seem underfoot, following you from room to room? This behavior, often called “shadowing,” is another way cats express their love and desire to be near you.
Cats are naturally curious creatures who want to be involved in whatever their favorite human is doing.
If your cat follows you into the bathroom or hops up on the counter while you’re cooking, it’s a clear sign that they enjoy your company and want to spend as much time with you as possible.
5. Bringing You “Gifts”
It may not be the most pleasant surprise, but when your cat brings you a dead mouse or bird, they give you a gift. Cats are natural hunters; in the wild, they often bring their prey back to share with their families.
When your cat brings you their catch, they show that they consider you a part of their family and want to provide for you.
While it’s important to discourage this behavior for the sake of local wildlife, try to remember that your cat’s “gifts” are a sign of their love and devotion.
6. Responding to Your Emotions
Cats behave differently depending on their owner’s emotional state. When owners were smiling, cats responded with affectionate behaviors like rubbing, cuddling, purring, or jumping into their laps.
In contrast, when owners were frowning, cats were less affectionate and more likely to avoid direct contact.
This finding suggests that cats are attuned to our emotions and respond accordingly.
So, if you notice your cat being extra cuddly when you’re feeling down, know that it’s trying to comfort you in its own special way.
7. Vocalizing
While some cats meow to show pleasure, others make a high-pitched gurgling sound. It may sound strange for non-cat owners, but if your cat makes a chatting or gurgling noise, it indicates they are feeling social.
Gurgling is reserved for only the most cheerful moods, so if your cat gurgles a lot, you can be sure they are a happy kitty.
Normally, cats do not communicate with each other through meowing. Primarily, they save this vocal behavior for their interactions with humans.
Whether your cat gives you a meow here and there or meows nonstop, consider this their way of communicating with you and showing their love.
8. Purring
Purring is one of the loudest ways cats show their love. Although there are times cats purr when they’re uncomfortable, the occasion is rare. More often than not, your cat is purring because they’re happy to be around you.
A cat’s purr can mean various things, from happiness to genuine concern. Many experts believe that a cat’s purr is a form of submission, letting people and other animals know they offer no threat.
Either way, think of purring as a little smile from our pets, letting us know they are here.
9. Sleeping Near You
Does your cat like to sleep in your arms or on your lap? Consider yourself loved! Cats can sleep for 10 to 15 hours each day. They are most vulnerable while sleeping and choose safe and secure places.
There is no better compliment to you than a cat who chooses to fall asleep on you. This means the cat is completely comfortable with you and trusts that it is in safe and loving hands.
So, the next time your cat curls up on your lap for a nap, know they’re showing you the ultimate sign of trust and affection.
10. Tail Wrapping
A cat wrapping their tail around your arm or leg is the feline equivalent of holding hands. It’s a sign that your cat truly loves and trusts you and wants to be as close to you as possible.
This behavior also marks you with your cat’s scent and tells other cats that you belong to them.
So, if your cat often wraps its tail around you, take it as a heartwarming gesture of its deep bond with you.
11. Licking You
While it might feel rough on your skin, when your cat licks you, they show their affection. Cats spend enormous time self-grooming, and friendly cats groom each other.
When your cat grooms you by licking your skin or hair or even nibbling or sucking on your clothing, they’re indicating great affection. This spreads a familiar scent and helps mark you as an important part of their family group.
So, the next time your cat starts licking your hand or arm, remember it’s a sign of their love and trust in you. If the licking becomes excessive or uncomfortable, be sure to redirect them to a toy or treat.
12. Showing You Their Belly
When a cat rolls over and exposes its belly to you, it’s a significant sign of trust and affection. A cat’s belly is its most vulnerable area, so it only shows it when it feels completely safe and comfortable.
However, it’s important to note that when a cat shows you their belly, it’s not necessarily an invitation to rub it. Some cats may enjoy a gentle belly rub, but for many, it can be overstimulating and cause them to lash out.
The best response is to admire the gesture of trust and offer a gentle pet on the head or chin instead.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.