We know you love your cat. But does your cat love you back? By understanding behavior, body language, and vocalizations, you can learn if your cat loves you just as much as you love them.
They Greet You
If your cat greets you when you return home, they love and trust you. They missed you when you were gone and are happy you have returned. They may sniff you to see what you have been up to. If they approach you with their tail held up high, they are likely excited to see you. If their tail is quivering a little bit that’s even better. They are so excited they can hardly contain themselves. They may even meow ‘Hello!’ and tell you all about what you missed while you were away.
They Spend Time With You
If your cat loves you, they like to hang out and spend time with you. They like to be near you. They may rest right on your lap or they may just be in the same room. If they follow you around the house or into the bathroom, they feel happy when they are close to you and just enjoy being nearby.
A cat sleeping in bed with you is a big sign of trust and love and show that you have a strong bond. They don’t need to be snuggled up close - although nothing beats that! - sleeping at the foot of the bed or nearby in the same room is just as good. You are vulnerable when you’re asleep and so are they. If your cat chooses to sleep with you, they trust you and feel safe enough with you to let their guard down and rest.
They Slow Blink at You
The slow blink is a sign of trust and affection. This is when a cat looks at you for a second or two then very purposefully and slowly blinks their eyes at you. It is subtle, but it is an indication of trust and love. You then slowly blink at them, which tells the cat that you love them too.
They Make Biscuits for You
Making biscuits, also known as kneading, is when cats move their front paws up and down, usually on a soft blanket or a person. It’s a comforting action they do when they are happy and is reminiscent of kittens nursing on their mama cat. It’s a sign of comfort and relaxation. It’s their way of showing their affection for you.
They Rub on You or Headbutt You
Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, chins, and foreheads that release pheromones. If your cat rubs their face or head on you or headbutts you, they are spreading their pheromones on you and marking you as theirs. They know you are safe and give them comfort and are marking you as a member of their family. It’s a huge compliment.
They Groom You
Cats don’t only groom themselves. They groom their friends and family too. If your cat grooms and licks you, they are showing they care about you.
They Bring You Gifts
If your cat brings you gifts, that’s a sign of affection! If they hunt something and bring it to you, they want to share their reward and provide for you. Or they might bring you a toy. Cats love to play and if they initiate playtime with you, they want to include you in the fun.
They Present Their Belly or Booty to You
When a cat shows you their belly, it’s hard to resist giving them a belly rub. But it’s not necessarily an invitation to touch them. The underbelly is a very vulnerable spot on a cat’s body. Since their vital organs are located within, cats have a natural instinct to protect their bellies. When a cat exposes their belly, it is not necessarily an invitation to pet them. It is often a sign of trust and that they feel safe with you. It can also be that your cat is feeling relaxed and comfortable. They could be stretching or rolling over and just enjoying some relaxation. Some cats roll onto their back and bare their belly when they are feeling playful as a way to entice you to play with them. And sometimes, cats DO want belly rubs and they roll over and expose their tummy to get your attention and to lure you into giving them some affection.
Conversely, if your cat presents their booty to you, that’s a sign they trust you and want to share their scent with you. Much like how dogs sniff each other’s backends, a cat showing you their butt is a sign they feel comfortable with you.
They Talk to You
Cats don’t typically meow at each other. They use body language and scent to communicate with cats. However, they meow at people. Or they chirp or trill or make other cute, happy noises. If your cat meows and makes other little noises at you, they are happy to see you and want to get your attention. Spend some time with them and give them a few extra cuddles to show your appreciation right back.
Hopefully, you are familiar with all or most of these behaviors and you and your cat have a strong bond and a loving relationship full of good times, cozy snuggles, and happy memories.
Love, Nala