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Cats communicate and use very different body language than humans. So it can be a bit difficult to tell if your cat cares about you. Luckily, cats give signs and display certain behaviors that indicate they love you. They may seem subtle to us, but some of these signals are very obvious displays of affection for cats. Here are some ways cats show they care about their humans.
Top 10 Ways Cats Take Care of Humans:
1. They rub against you
You can take it as a compliment if a cat approaches you first. If he keeps rubbing his cheeks against you, chances are he likes you. The cats have scent glands around their cheeks and often face and rub their faces against people, other animals, and objects. This behavior can signal territory marking, but when performed on people or animals, it can be a sign of acceptance or a greeting from the cat.
This is one of the most common signs of affection I get from cats. When I get home, one of my cats greets me at the door and often rubs her cheeks against my legs before running off to do her own thing. It’s always nice to know that she’ll take the time to pause and say hello.
2. They blink slowly
Cats are very observant animals. You can often catch them staring at something and staring at it. If you find your cat in a relaxed position and staring at you, try to meet their gaze and blink once slowly. If your cat blinks slowly, it’s a sign that he’s trusts and feels affectionate toward you.
I’ve had the most success with a slow blink in older cats. Maybe it’s because they’re generally calmer than kittens and I can get their attention more easily when they’re lounging.
3. They knead with their front paws
Cats knead or “bake cookies” with their front paws when they feel relaxed. My cat will often knead his favorite mat, and if he’s feeling particularly affectionate, he’ll knead his paws in my lap before settling down or while he’s being petted. While it’s a nice gesture, it can sometimes be painful if his claws dig too deep. So I usually have a blanket nearby to use as a barrier while she bakes cookies.
4. They stay in the same room as you
Some cats may prefer to be left alone and dislike having pets, but they can still show affection in their own way. More independent cats can show they care about you simply by being in the same room with you.
Cats like to have several hiding places in their house because it helps them feel safe. So if your cat prefers to be in the same room as you, it may be because he feels safe around you.
Since cats like cozy hiding places, I have set up places near my workspace. My cat often prefers to lounge or sleep in these spaces while I’m working or when he wants to be near me but doesn’t want to be disturbed.
5. They show their bellies
Cats are very protective of their bellies because they are vulnerable points. So if they are relaxed around you and lying down, that means they trust you. Some cats may even roll over onto their backs and expose their bellies when receiving pets. It’s a strong sign of trust, and your cat feels extremely relaxed and comfortable around you.
6. They purr around you
Cats can purr for many reasons, and they sometimes purr when they feel happy. So if a cat purrs when you pet it or if it’s in the same room as you, it’s most likely showing its contentment.
Cats may also purr when trying to communicate with others. So you can always try purring or talking softly to your cat. It’s always fun when cats respond with more purr, and it’s nice to share a conversation with your cat.
7. They sleep near you
Sleeping leaves cats in a vulnerable position, so they only sleep in places where they feel safe. A cat sleeping close to you or next to you means that it does not perceive you as a threat. It is a sign of trust and it can also mean that you support each other.
My first interactions with cats usually start with hiding and observing them from a safe place. Not all cats will start sleeping on the bed at night, but they will usually sleep in the bedroom once they feel comfortable.
8. They headbutt you
You may feel like your cat is pushing you back with a head butt, but cat head butts can be signs of affection. Not all cats will do this, especially if they don’t prefer to be petted. However, some cats will headbutt you when they need your attention.
If your cat nudges you, try scratching under its chin and around its ears. If he stays still, he is enjoying the attention and the free massage. My cat usually butts me after his evening meal. I just take it as a sign of appreciation and affection, and she loves getting extra pets before she takes another nap.
9. They follow you everywhere
Research shows that cats can form strong bonds with humans and enjoy the company of their parents. Cats may follow you around the house because they want your attention. They might want pets or treats or want to play with you. Some cats with very strong bonds with their parents may even start following them if they feel sick or in distress.
10. They try to heal you
Cats can sometimes groom each other as a sign of trust and respect, especially if they are a bonded pair. Cats that have a strong bond with their owners may begin to groom them by licking them more frequently.
Not all cats exhibit this behavior, so if your cat never tries to groom you, it doesn’t automatically mean that he doesn’t like you. Sometimes they may just nibble at you gently, which is also a sign of affection.
Conclusion
Cats take care of their owners in different ways. The best way to tell if your cat is feeling affectionate towards you is to observe and understand their behavior. Some cats may be more obvious in showing they care, but all cats with strong bonds with their owners will let their owners know they love them. We just have to know the subtle signs and appreciate them every time we see them.
Featured Image Credit: U__Photo, Shutterstock
Ivy’s mom cat – a feisty little rescue kitten who is her one and only child. For the moment! Throughout her life, she was introduced to the special love that can be found in bonding with a cat. Having owned several felines, she is more than certain that their love is unmatched, unconditional and unlike any other. With a passion for educating the public on all there is to know about felines, their behavior and their unique personalities, Crystal is dedicated to ensuring that all cats and their owners know the importance of living mindfully – and to love!
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