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Cats have a reputation for being independent, but those who share their lives with these enigmatic creatures know that cats have their own special ways of expressing love.

It might not always be as obvious as a wagging tail or a slobbery kiss, but once you understand the signs, it’s clear that cats are just as affectionate as any other pet—if not more so. Here’s a look at some of the most adorable ways cats say, “I love you.”

Kneading: A Pawsitive Sign of Affection

One of the most well-known signs of feline affection is kneading. When your cat presses their paws into your lap, blanket, or even your chest, they’re not just getting comfortable—they’re showing you love.

This behavior is rooted in kittenhood when kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. As adults, cats continue to knead as a way to show contentment and to mark you as someone they trust and love. The rhythmic motion of their paws is like a cat massage, and it’s their way of saying, “You make me feel safe.”

Nuzzling: The Softest Declaration of Love

Nuzzling, or gently rubbing their face against you, is another classic way cats show affection. This isn’t just about getting attention; it’s about bonding. Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, and when they nuzzle you, they’re marking you with their scent, claiming you as part of their inner circle. It’s a silent declaration of love and trust. When your cat nuzzles your face or neck, it’s a tender gesture that says, “You’re mine, and I’m yours.”

The Slow Blink: A Cat’s Version of a Kiss

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If you’ve ever caught your cat staring at you and then slowly closing and opening their eyes, consider yourself lucky—you’ve just received a cat kiss. The slow blink is a sign of trust and affection.

In the wild, closing their eyes would make them vulnerable, so when your cat does this around you, it’s their way of saying, “I feel safe with you.” You can even return the favor by slow blinking back, creating a mutual exchange of trust and love.

Purring: The Sound of Feline Contentment

Purring is one of the most obvious signs of a happy, loving cat. While cats purr for various reasons, such as when they’re in pain or anxious, a cat that purrs while snuggled up with you is usually expressing contentment and affection.

The gentle vibration of a cat’s purr is soothing not just for them, but for you as well. It’s their way of creating a calm, loving atmosphere, a sign that they’re at peace and happy to be in your company.

Bringing Gifts: The Feline Love Language

As strange as it may seem, when your cat brings you a “gift,” such as a toy or even something they’ve caught outside, they’re expressing affection. This behavior harks back to their instincts as hunters. In the wild, cats would bring their prey to share with their family.

By leaving a toy mouse or an unfortunate insect at your feet, your cat is including you in this primal bonding ritual. It’s their way of saying, “You’re important to me, and I want to share this with you.”

Following You: A Loyal Shadow

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Does your cat follow you from room to room? This isn’t just curiosity—it’s love. Cats that see you as part of their family want to be where you are. Whether you’re working, relaxing, or moving around the house, your cat’s presence is their way of staying connected. It’s a silent but strong indication that they value your companionship and enjoy being in your company.

Love in Every Gesture

While cats may not be as overt as some other pets, the ways they show love are deeply meaningful and unique to their species. From the gentle nuzzle to the rhythmic kneading, each gesture is a heartfelt expression of the bond they share with you.

Embrace these moments, for they are the quiet, tender reminders of the special bond you share with your feline friend.

• Johnson-Bennett, P. (2011). Think Like a Cat: How to Raise a Well-Adjusted Cat--Not a Sour Puss. Penguin Books.
• Ellis, S. (2015). The Trainable Cat: A Practical Guide to Making Life Happier for You and Your Cat. Basic Books.