Photo byCanva

Cats might not always be as openly affectionate as dogs, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love you. In fact, cats have their own unique ways of showing affection—some of which might surprise you! If you’ve ever wondered whether your cat truly cares, here are some everyday behaviors that are actually signs of feline love.

Purring Up a Storm

Purring is often the most recognized sign of a cat’s affection. While cats can purr for a variety of reasons, one of the most common is contentment. If your cat curls up on your lap and starts purring, it’s a sign that they feel safe, comfortable, and happy with you. It’s their way of saying, “I love being here with you.”

Head Bunting

When your cat bumps their head against yours or rubs their face on you, they’re engaging in what’s known as “head bunting.” This behavior is a sign of affection and bonding. Cats have scent glands in their heads, and by rubbing against you, they’re marking you as part of their territory and signaling that they trust and feel close to you.

Following You Around

Photo byCanva

Does your cat follow you from room to room? This behavior is another way your cat shows they love you. Cats are naturally independent creatures, so when they choose to spend time near you, it’s a sign of affection. They enjoy your company and want to be part of whatever you’re doing.

Slow Blinking

Slow blinking is often referred to as a “cat kiss.” When your cat looks at you and slowly closes and opens their eyes, they’re showing that they trust you and feel safe around you. You can return the gesture by slow-blinking back, which can help strengthen the bond between you and your cat.

Bringing You “Gifts”

While it might not be the most pleasant experience to find a toy, or even a small animal, at your feet, this is actually a sign of love. Cats are natural hunters, and bringing you their “catch” is a way of sharing their success with you. It’s their version of taking care of you, just as they would with a fellow feline.

Kneading You with Their Paws

When your cat kneads you, it’s a sign of contentment and affection. This behavior stems from kittenhood, when kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. In adult cats, kneading is a comforting behavior that indicates they feel relaxed and happy around you.

Exposing Their Belly

Photo byCanva

Cats are naturally protective of their bellies because it’s one of the most vulnerable parts of their body. When your cat rolls over and shows you their belly, it’s a sign of ultimate trust and affection. While not all cats enjoy belly rubs, the act of showing you their belly is a clear indication that they feel safe with you.

Licking You

If your cat licks your hand, face, or hair, they’re showing you affection in a way that’s similar to how they would groom a fellow cat. Grooming is a social activity in the feline world, and when your cat licks you, they’re including you in their close circle of trusted companions.

Tail Language

A cat’s tail can tell you a lot about how they’re feeling. When your cat’s tail is upright with a slight curve at the end, it’s a sign that they’re happy to see you. If their tail quivers when they greet you, it’s a sign of excitement and affection.

Understanding Your Cat’s Love Language

Cats may express love differently than we do, but their affection is no less sincere. By recognizing these signs, you can better understand how your cat communicates their feelings and deepen the bond you share. These subtle gestures are your cat’s way of saying, “I love you,” every single day.

Brown, P. S. (1999). The Cat's Mind: Understanding Your Cat's Behavior. HarperCollins.

Moore, T. (2010). The Inner Life of Cats: The Science and Secrets of Our Mysterious Feline Companions. Simon & Schuster.

Rugaas, T. (2006). On Talking Terms with Cats: A Study of Cat Communication. Dogwise Publishing.