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Cats can be experts at playing it cool, but beneath that aloof exterior, they’re full of affection for their cat parents. While they may not wag their tails or jump up with excitement like dogs, cats have their own subtle ways of showing love. Here are 10 ways your cat might be secretly telling you, "I love you."

Slow Blinks – The “Cat Kiss”

When your cat gives you a slow blink, they’re offering you a sign of trust and affection. Known as “cat kisses,” these slow blinks show that your cat feels safe around you. Try returning the slow blink—it’s like exchanging silent love notes with your feline friend.

Tail Quivers of Joy

If your cat’s tail vibrates or quivers when they see you, it’s a strong indicator of happiness and affection. It’s as close as a cat gets to jumping for joy when you enter the room. That quivering tail says, “I’m so happy you’re here!”

Following You Around

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Though cats have a reputation for being independent, many enjoy following their humans from room to room. This isn’t just curiosity—your cat enjoys being near you and views you as part of their territory. Being in your presence is one of their subtle ways of bonding.

Bringing You “Gifts”

Whether it’s a toy, a piece of string, or (occasionally) a small critter, when your cat brings you a “gift,” they’re offering you something valuable to them. It’s their way of taking care of you, just as they would with other cats they love in the wild.

Purring Near You

While cats can purr for many reasons, a contented purr when curled up near you is often a sign of affection. It means they feel safe and happy in your company. That rhythmic, soothing sound is your cat’s way of telling you that you’re doing a great job as their human.

Head Butts and Face Rubs

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When your cat bumps their head against you or rubs their face on you, they’re marking you with their scent. This is an act of bonding, as cats use scent to establish familiarity and connection. By rubbing their face on you, they’re saying, “You’re part of my family.”

Kneading – A Throwback to Kittenhood

If your cat kneads on your lap or a blanket, it’s a deep-rooted behavior from kittenhood. Kneading is something kittens do while nursing, and it’s associated with feelings of comfort and contentment. When your cat kneads on you, it means they feel safe, loved, and relaxed.

Exposing Their Belly

When your cat rolls over and shows you their belly, they’re in their most vulnerable position. While they might not always want you to pet it, this act is a sign of trust and affection. They’re comfortable enough around you to let their guard down.

Silent Meows

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Some cats develop a special type of meow for their humans—a quiet, almost soundless meow. This gentle communication is often reserved for people they love, like a soft, “Hey, I’m here with you.”

Sleeping Close to You

Cats are at their most vulnerable when they’re asleep. If your cat chooses to sleep on or near you, it’s a strong sign of trust. They feel protected and safe in your presence, and sleeping near you is their way of showing that they love and trust you completely.

Love in Every Purr and Paw

Cats may not express their love as obviously as some animals, but their affection runs deep. Whether it’s a head bump, a slow blink, or a gentle purr, your cat is telling you in their own special way that they adore you. Next time your cat follows you around or quietly kneads on your lap, know that they’re sharing their love in the ways they know best.

McMillan, F. D. (2017). Mental Health and Well-Being in Animals. CABI Publishing.

Miklósi, Á. (2015). Dog Behavior, Evolution, and Cognition. Oxford University Press.