There’s a common stereotype that while dogs are loving and loyal, cats are aloof and harbor no warm feelings towards humans. But as many cat owners are well aware, stereotypes are often more grounded in myth and misunderstanding than actual reality. Though cats are often very independent creatures, that doesn't mean they don't care about their family members. Research shows that cats really can love their humans, and they'll even show it in a variety of ways.
Does my cat love me or what I do for him?
As your kitty’s provider of food, shelter, and cuddles, it’s reasonable to be a bit skeptical about his feelings towards you. After all, your fellow pet owners are skeptical as well — “does my cat love me?” is searched between 3,000 and 4,000 times on Google every month in the US alone (according to Moz data), with thousands of additional searches for “signs my cat loves me” and even “does my cat love me or food?”
Cat parents: it’s time to stop being so insecure. A study published in Current Biology found that cats form attachment bonds to their human caretakers in very much the same way that dogs and human children do. After observing key secure attachment behaviors in over 65% of cats and kittens involved in the study, researchers from Oregon State University concluded that “we may be underestimating cats’ socio-cognitive abilities.”
10 signs your cat loves you
Of course, seeing is believing. Humans still have a lot of learning to do when it comes to cats, and it's not like we can just ask them how they're feeling. Nevertheless, certain feline behaviors are considered indicative that they love their people. Curious about how your four-legged friend feels about you? Here are some of the top signs your cat loves you:
1. Your kitty purrs around you
Feline behaviorists have found that cats purr for a variety of reasons, but they believe that purring first starts as a form of communication and bonding mechanism between kittens and their mothers. It's also a common indicator of comfort and ease. If your cat purrs contently when they are around you, there’s a good chance they also feel bonded with you and is relaxed in your presence.
2. They sit on you
Cats pounce on their prey, but if your kitty comes and sits on you calmly, it’s an indicator of trust and affection. This is especially true if your cat purrs while they do so. And if kneading (rhythmically flexing and pushing with the paws) is involved? You better believe your cat views you as family—there are multiple theories as to why cats knead, and almost all have to do with comfort and affection.
3. You’ve seen the ‘slow blink’
Cats are very expressive with their facial features, especially when it comes to their eyes. Not only is holding eye contact with you considered to be a sign of trust, but a slow blink in your direction may be a solid sign of affection. If you spot your cat giving you a long, drawn-out blink in the middle of their gazing at you, they are comfortable letting their guard down in your presence and are displaying trust and affection. Go ahead and try slowly blinking back to show them you agree.
4. You have a sleeping buddy
In case you haven’t noticed, your cat sleeps a lot. But like most animals, cats are most vulnerable when snoozing. As a result, they are only going to sleep where they feel most comfortable and secure. If that’s with you, congratulations! Your cat definitely sees you in a positive light.
5. They bring you gifts
While cats are not innate pack animals, they can and do form social groups or “colonies.” And as natural hunters, cats have the urge to attack fast-moving objects and catch “prey.” Whether it’s a toy or—eek!—an actual small animal, your kitty bringing you one of these gifts is a sign of loyalty and affection. Another common theory is that your cat cares about you and is trying to teach you how to hunt for your own well-being and survival. In other words, they view you as an important part of their family.
Of course, you may not appreciate every one of their gifts. If your cat brings you something unpleasant (like a dead rodent or bug), try not to react in disgust or anger. This can be difficult to do if you're the squeamish type, but not controlling your reaction may only leave your cat confused and may even cause negative feelings (after all, who wants their gift rejected?) As tough as it is, stay calm and just clean it up. Be sure to thoroughly clean any surface the "gift" touched. If your kitty is indoor-only, you'll also want to check your home for any potential entries where rodents or other things could be getting in. When done, give your cat some head scratches for being such a good warrior.
6. Head bumping happens
Does you buddy come up and nudge their head against you? They may seem like they're just being playful, but cat behaviorists maintain that this can be a very strong form of affection. It’s an action known as head “bunting,” according to Mental Floss, and it’s usually reserved for members of a cat’s colony.
That said, don’t confuse head bumping with more prolonged head pressing that cats may do when they’re in pain. If your cat is pressing their head against your or furniture, or starts making strange noises in the process, they may be in need of medical attention.
7. You’re being followed
Ever notice that kitty likes to trail you around the house? There can be many reasons for this—from wanting food to being anxious—but there are many cases in which your cat simply enjoys your company and wants to be with you. If it’s not close to feeding time, and your cat isn’t acting like they want anything, chances are they are just trying to bask in your presence.
8. You’ve seen your cat’s belly, a lot
If you’re no stranger to your cat rolling over to expose their belly to you, you’re definitely someone important. This position puts cats in a vulnerable position, and so they’ll only do it around people they’re completely comfortable around. If that’s not love, we’re not sure what is.
Keep in mind though that just because your cat is showing you their tummy, it does not necessarily mean they are open for belly rubs. Some cats do indeed enjoy being petted here, but many others do not. Pay close attention to the rest of your cat’s body language to avoid getting scratched, not to mention maintain the loving relationship between you two.
9. It shows in the tail
If you still find yourself wondering, “does my cat love me?” take a look at their tail. According to animal behaviorist and cat specialist Marilyn Krieger, felines often show affection through their tails. A curved tip is a friendly greeting and invitation to interact with your cat, while a more gushy display of love is your cat wrapping their tail around your hands, ankles, arms, or really just any part of your body.
10. They groom you
Just as mother cats will groom their young, cats who are bonded with each other will often groom one another, showing comfort and familial acceptance. If you find your kitty licking you repetitively, you've either spilled something delicious on yourself or they see you as a close family member. To return the favor, use a cat brush in gentle strokes.
How you can show your cat you care
Naturally, you’ll want to reciprocate your furry friend’s feelings. While you can always share the love with plenty of cuddles and the occasional treat, it’s also important to take the time to play with your cat and keep him active.
Of course, even the most loving cats don’t always want to be smothered with attention. Another great way to show you care is by taking an avid interest in your cat’s health and protecting him from unexpected illnesses with pet insurance. Sure, kitty may not enjoy trips to the veterinarian, but they’re an important part of making sure he gets to spend many more years with the human he loves (that’s you!)
Have a dog? Don’t worry — your canine pal loves you too.
