By David Pike
Cats are often misunderstood animals, but they can be just as loving and affectionate as any other pet. While cats may not show their feelings in the same way that a dog might, they do have many ways of expressing their love and appreciation for their owners. Cats may be known for their aloof demeanor, but many cats show affection to their owners in a variety of ways. From head-butting to kneading, cats have a number of unique habits that signal love and affection for their human families. Understanding these behaviors can help owners as well as those who are trying to become a registered cat breeder better appreciate the bond they have with their furry friends.
Head-Butting
Head-butting, also known as bunting or pressing, is one of the most common ways cats show affection. When your cat rubs his head against yours or an object near you, he’s marking you as part of his territory while releasing pheromones that make him feel comfortable and content. Head-butting is essentially the feline equivalent of a hug!
Kneading
Kneading is when a cat pushes its paws against something in an alternating pattern — usually your lap or blanket. This attribute is often seen when cats are happily purring away and feeling relaxed and content. Kneading likely has its roots in kittenhood; young cats knead against their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow while nursing. In adulthood, it can be interpreted as an expression of comfort and security around their human families.
Purring
Purring is one of the most recognizable signs of contentment and happiness from cats, and it’s also one way they show affection to their owners. Cats purr for different reasons — sometimes because they’re happy or comfortable, other times because they’re injured or sick — but when a cat purrs next to you it’s likely because he feels safe in your presence and enjoys being around you.
Blinking Slowly
Slow Blinking is another subtle way cats communicate feelings of comfort, safety, and love towards humans. When your cat looks at you then blinks slowly instead of turning away, she’s telling you that she trusts you and feels safe around you — it’s her version of saying “I love you!”
Tail-Up Greeting
Tail up greeting is another sign of trust from felines – when your cat greets you by raising his tail high in the air instead of tucking it between his legs, he’s showing that he not only recognizes you but loves spending time with you too! This behavior often comes along with other signs like rubbing against your legs or meowing loudly as if calling out “hello!”
Grooming You
It may sound strange – after all who grooms whom? – but cats actually groom their humans too! While some people find this behavior intrusive (and even painful!), it actually shows trust and appreciation your cat has towards you. Your kitty may lick your hand or face as a sign that he considers himself part of the family unit – so don’t be surprised if he offers up some grooming every now and then!
Presenting Their Belly
Showing off their belly isn’t just done by puppies – many cats expose theirs too! This behavior signals trust since exposing such an area leaves them vulnerable – so if your cat does this with ease around you then chances are she loves spending time with her human family members!
Following You Around
Does your kitty follow you from room to room? If yes then congrats – this means she loves spending time with her favorite people! Cats are curious creatures so naturally they want to accompany us wherever we go – whether it’s to answer the doorbell or take out the trash – so if yours follows suit then consider yourself lucky!
Playing With You
Playtime isn’t just reserved for kittens – many adult cats still enjoy playing games with their owners too! Whether it’s chasing after string toys or batting at fluffy balls across the floor – playing together not only helps strengthen the bond between kitty and her person but also provides physical stimulation which helps keep them healthy both mentally & physically!
Snuggling Up Together
Is there anything better than snuggling up together on a cold winter night? For many cats (and humans) this type of closeness signals true love & appreciation which makes snuggling up together even more special & heartwarming!
