8 signs your cat loves you

Wondering what your cat thinks of you? These 8 signs your cat loves you can clue you in on your cat’s level of affection and loyalty toward you. Even if your feline friend isn’t forthcoming with their feelings, they’re likely showing you their devotion in subtle ways. Learn how to recognize your cat’s love language, and what to do to strengthen your bond with them. 

Do cats show affection to their humans? 

Cats are excellent at masking any sign of weakness, which can include pain, illness, or displays of trust and acceptance. Because of this, some cats are more reserved when it comes to public displays of affection to their humans — but that doesn’t mean they don’t adore you. In fact, some wear their positive emotions on their metaphorical sleeves, communicating their cat love language loud and clear. 

Are you feeling the feline love? See if your cat is displaying these behaviors. 

• Purring 

This vocalization is one that most people most often associate with happy cats. The soothing rumbling sound your cat emits is a sign of contentment and happiness. But not all cats purr loud enough to hear — sometimes you may feel your cat’s throat vibrating while you scratch under their chin, or if their head is resting on you. No matter the volume, a relaxed cat that’s purring is saying “I’m happy and content with you.” 

• Sleeping on or with you 

Being close cousins of their wild counterparts, cats are usually on alert for danger. When your cat chooses to nap on or near you, it’s a sign that they trust you to keep them safe. If your feline follows you to bed each night, it’s a sign of devotion and desire to be with you. So the next time your cat hops into your lap and lays down on your hands, keyboard, or other work surface, just remember that they’re showing you the love. 

• Kneading 

Sometimes referred to as “making biscuits”, this action is a rhythmic massaging motion that cats do with their front feet when they are comfortable and content. Kneading starts during kitten-hood while nursing on their mother, and some cats carry this behavior with them as they get older. If your cat gives you or the surface their standing on a gentle massage when you give them attention, they’re feeling calm and relaxed. 

• Headbutting 

Headbutting or cheek-rubbing is your cat’s way of saying “be mine.” Cats emit pheromones through glands near their cheeks and chin that they use to claim their territory. This “marking” won’t leave any noticeable scents or signs to a human, but your cat will be able to recognize what they’ve designated as theirs. To be headbutted by a cat is the equivalent of making it into their inner circle — the acknowledgement of being one of their own. 

• Licking or grooming you 

Cats show affection to each other by licking or grooming one another — and this can extend to their humans. Try placing your hand near your cat while they’re relaxed and grooming themselves. If your cat licks you or allows you to brush them, it’s a sign of trust and acceptance. 

• Showing their belly 

For predators like cats, showing their underside is the ultimate display of trust. This vulnerable position is reserved for other animals or humans that they are totally at ease around. But don’t be so quick to pet your cat’s belly — this display shows that they’re comfortable enough around you to reveal their most vulnerable area, but it isn’t an invitation to touch them. Some cats will react negatively if their stomach is touched.  

If you want to try to give your cat a belly rub, do so slowly, taking note of your cat’s reaction. Some cats will allow their humans to rub their abdomen, while others will instinctively react to physical contact. 

• Eye contact and slow blinking 

Eye contact from your cat is another show of adoration. Cats will often stare into the eyes of humans they love and trust. If you’re rewarded with a slow blink or half closed eyes from your cat, you should feel even more honored. In fact, this is often considered the feline version of a kiss. Try giving your cat a slow blink back to see if they’ll repeat the gesture. 

• Bringing you gifts 

This one may not be a favorite among cat owners, as it usually involves a carcass of some sort, but it’s your cat’s way of bringing you flowers or chocolates. Being hunters at heart, your cat may reward your love for them with remains of their latest prey like rodents or insects. While somewhat revolting to us, a cat that’s proud of their human will bring them gifts. If you have a cat that’s strictly indoors, you may be rewarded with “dead” toys or other household items that your mighty hunter has vanquished. 

What if my cat doesn’t do any of these things? 

If your cat isn’t into PDA, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are unhappy in their home or with you. Some felines are much more reserved when it comes to their feelings, so you may need to look for more subtle signs that they’re content. Other signs of healthy, happy cats include: 

• Napping out in the open, or in areas where humans frequent 
• Meowing at you 
• Following you 
• Tail language like “rattling”, a curved C shape at the tip, or wrapping their tail around you 
• Tilting their chin up while being pet 

If you still don’t notice any of these signs of happiness from your cat, it could be that they’re not comfortable in their home, or are sick or injured. This is especially true if your cat hides constantly. If your cat is new to your family, give them plenty of time to adjust. For some cats, this can take a matter of hours or days, while other cats may take weeks or even months to fully come out of their shells. 

Call your cat’s veterinarian if you suspect any illness or injuries. Cats are excellent at hiding sickness and pain, and it can be difficult to pinpoint what may be causing them distress without a medical exam or testing. This is especially important if you have a male cat that hides in the litter box for extended periods of time, as it may be indicative of a urinary blockage, which is a medical emergency. 

Omlet and your cat 

At Omlet, we invent ways to build a deeper bond with your cat. Our cat products like the Freestyle Indoor Cat Tree, Switch Scratching Post and Cat Litter Box were all designed to incorporate your cat’s every day accessories into your life. These multipurpose elements bring you and your cat closer than ever, ensuring a lifetime of love and comfortable companionship. 

This entry was posted in Cats