Unlike dogs, who often wear their hearts on their sleeves, cats have a reputation for being more independent, expressing their affection in more subtle ways. If you've ever wondered whether your cat truly loves you, here are some tell-tale signs.
1. Bunting
When a cat gently nudges you with their head, it's more than just a cute habit, it's a sign of affection and trust. Cats have scent glands around their face and forehead, and they use these to leave their scent on people, animals, and objects they feel comfortable with. By rubbing against you or giving you a gentle head bump, your cat is marking you as part of their trusted circle.
2. Kneading
Kneading is a behaviour that begins in kittenhood, when young kittens rhythmically press their paws against their mother's belly while feeding. This action helps encourage milk flow and is associated with feelings of comfort, warmth, and security. Many cats carry this habit into adulthood. If your cat kneads your lap, it's often a sign that they're feeling relaxed, content and happy in their environment.
3. Relaxed Eye Contact and Trilling Sounds
Cats can be wary of direct eye contact, so a cat that meets your gaze with soft, relaxed eyes is showing that they feel safe around you. This gentle expression is often a sign of trust and contentment. You may also hear them make a cheerful little trill or chirp when they see you. This friendly vocalisation is often used as a greeting and is a good indication that your cat is happy to be around you.
4. Licking or Grooming You
Cats often groom other cats they share a close bond with. This behaviour helps strengthen social connections and allows them to share scents, creating a familiar group smell that helps them recognise trusted companions.
If your cat licks you, it's usually a sign that they feel close to you and consider you part of their social circle. By grooming you, they're treating you much like they would a fellow feline friend, showing trust, affection, and a sense of belonging.
5. Sleeping Near You
Cats spend a large portion of their day sleeping and will usually seek out places where they feel safe and comfortable. Because they are at their most vulnerable when asleep, they tend to be selective about where, and with whom, they choose to rest.
If your cat regularly curls up on your lap, naps beside you on the sofa, or joins you in bed at night, it's a strong sign that they trust you. Choosing to sleep close to you shows they feel secure in your presence and see you as a source of comfort and protection.
6. Slow Blinking
One of the most heartwarming ways cats show affection is through slow blinking. When a cat looks at you and slowly closes and opens their eyes, it's often referred to as a 'cat kiss'. This behaviour signals trust, comfort, and contentment.
Try slowly blinking back at your cat. Many cats will return the gesture, creating a special moment of connection between you.
Whether it's a gentle head bump, a cosey cuddle or a cheerful trill, we'd love to hear about your cat's favourite way of saying 'I love you'. Share your photos and stories with us on Instagram using @wearecloserpets.
Sources: Blue Cross, Cats Protection and the Closer Pets team