Discover how felines express affection in unique and subtle ways
Often, cats are seen as independent and reserved animals, but those who live with them know that these little companions are also capable of showing a lot of affection. Although their displays of affection differ from those of dogs, this doesn’t mean they love less. On the contrary, felines have their own special ways of showing how much they like their owners. Below are 14 signs that indicate your cat really likes you.
1. Purring
Purring is one of the clearest signs that your cat is happy and relaxed by your side. This soft sound, almost like a little engine, is a form of communication that many cats use to express comfort and security. If your feline purrs while being close to you, it’s their way of saying, “I trust you.”
2. Head-Butting and Rubbing Their Face
When your cat rubs their head against you or gives little “head bumps,” they are mixing their scent with yours, something they only do with those they consider part of their group. This behavior stems from cats’ social instincts, demonstrating affection through the exchange of pheromones.
3. Deep and Fixed Gaze
If your cat holds a steady gaze on you, consider yourself lucky! Cats are cautious when showing trust, and a prolonged stare is a sign that they feel safe and comfortable. This type of visual interaction is reserved only for those whom the cat truly trusts.
4. Slow Blinking
This is one of the most subtle and beautiful forms of feline communication. When your cat slowly blinks at you, they are showing that they feel calm and confident in your presence. You can blink back to reciprocate the affection—this is the “feline” way of saying, “I like you.”
5. “Kneading”
This behavior, where the cat moves its paws as if kneading something, originates from the early moments of life when kittens press their mother’s nipples to stimulate milk production. Adult cats repeat this gesture when they feel comfortable and happy, often on their owner, which demonstrates affection and well-being.
6. Sleeping on You
Cats like to sleep in places they consider safe. If your cat chooses to sleep on you or beside you, it’s because they feel protected and comfortable with your presence. This gesture is a clear way of saying they fully trust you.
7. Gentle Tail Movement
While dogs are famous for expressing emotions with their tails, cats also use this body part to communicate. When your cat brings its tail close to you, keeping it upright and slightly curved at the tip, or when it wraps it around your leg, it’s a sign of affection and connection.
8. Following You Around the House
If your cat likes to follow you to every corner, they likely enjoy your company and want to be close. This behavior is a way of showing that they like you and feel safe when they are by your side.
9. Exposing Their Belly
Cats are naturally defensive beings, so showing their belly is a sign of extreme trust. When they lie on their back, they are placing themselves in a vulnerable position and saying that they feel completely at ease with you. Just be careful when touching their belly, as some cats don’t like contact in that area!
10. Licking
If your cat licks you, know that this is one of the greatest demonstrations of affection. Cats usually lick each other as a form of grooming and bonding, and extending this grooming to humans is a way of showing that they consider you part of their group.
11. Wrapping Around Your Legs
When your cat repeatedly weaves through your legs as you walk, it’s not an attempt to make you trip! This behavior is a way of marking territory and showing that you are part of their inner circle.
12. Gentle Bites
The small nibbles your cat gives you are not aggressive but a way to play and show affection. These are “love bites,” typical of a loving and playful behavior among felines.
13. Unexpected Gifts
Although it may seem strange, when your cat brings small “prey,” such as insects or toys, they are trying to share their achievements with you. This is a natural hunting behavior and a way to gift those they love.
14. Lying Next to You
Cats are masters at choosing comfortable places to rest. If your cat opts to lie near you, or even on top of your feet, it’s a sign that they value your company and feel safe when they are by your side. This is the feline way of staying close to those they like.
Cats have a unique way of expressing affection, and it’s important to understand that, although different, these displays are as valuable as those of dogs or other animals. If your cat exhibits some of these behaviors, you can be sure that they really like you!
