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As cat parents, we know our feline friends can sometimes appear distant or even indifferent. But don’t be fooled—cats have subtle, surprising ways of showing love, even when they seem aloof. Their affection may not be as obvious as a dog’s wagging tail or constant attention, but it’s there if you know how to spot it. Here’s how your cat shows love in ways you may not have thought about.

The Quiet Comfort of Being Near You

One of the most overlooked signs of a cat’s affection is simply their desire to be near you. While they may not always seek out your lap, if your cat often lounges nearby or follows you from room to room, that’s their way of staying connected.

Cats are independent by nature, but when they choose to be in the same space as you—whether sitting on a windowsill in the same room or lying at the foot of your bed—it’s a sign that they feel safe and comforted by your presence. Their silent companionship is a strong indication of love and trust.

Those Gentle Slow Blinks

If your cat has ever gazed at you from across the room and slowly blinked, consider yourself lucky—you’ve just received a feline “I love you.” Cats rarely make direct eye contact unless they feel completely at ease, and a slow blink is their way of communicating affection.

To strengthen your bond with your cat, try giving them a slow blink back. It’s a simple yet powerful gesture that mimics their own expression of trust and love, making them feel even more connected to you.

Bringing You “Gifts”

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It may not be the gift you were hoping for, but if your cat brings you a toy, a sock, or (heaven forbid) a mouse, it’s their way of showing appreciation. This behavior stems from their instinct to hunt and provide for their family. When your cat brings you something, they’re treating you as part of their “clan.”

While these gifts may not always be pleasant, they’re a significant sign that your cat cares for you and wants to share their “catch” as a token of their love. So, the next time your cat drops a toy mouse at your feet, know that it’s coming from a place of deep affection.

Rubbing Against You: The Scent of Love

When your cat rubs their head or body against you, they’re not just marking their territory—they’re showing love. Cats have scent glands on their heads and along their bodies, and rubbing against you is a way of saying, “You belong to me.”

This behavior marks you as part of their family and strengthens their bond with you through scent. While it might seem like a territorial action, it’s actually a loving gesture that lets other cats know you’re someone special in their life.

Wrapping It All Up: Aloof But Affectionate

Your cat’s love may not always be obvious, but it’s there in the little things—whether it’s their quiet presence, a slow blink, or an unexpected gift. Cats express their affection in subtle, unique ways, and once you start noticing these small signs, you’ll see just how much love they have to give.

References

Rochlitz, I. (2005). The Welfare of Cats. Springer.

Johnson-Bennett, P. (2016). CatWise: America’s Favorite Cat Expert Answers Your Cat Behavior Questions. Penguin Random House.