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Cats may not express love in the same way as dogs, but they have their own unique, sometimes surprising, ways of showing that they see you as part of their family. From quirky behaviors to subtle gestures, here are six unexpected ways your cat tells you that you’re more than just a caretaker—you’re family.

They Groom You Like You’re One of Them

Cats groom each other as a sign of social bonding, and if your cat licks your hand, face, or hair, they’re treating you like they would another cat they trust. It’s their way of saying, “You’re part of my family group.” This grooming behavior not only shows affection but also helps them strengthen their emotional connection with you.

They Bring You “Presents” (Even if You Don’t Want Them)

Has your cat ever brought you a toy, a piece of string, or a less-than-pleasant critter from outside? While it might not be the gift you were hoping for, it’s a huge sign of love. Cats are natural hunters, and in the wild, they would bring food to their family members. By bringing you a “present,” they’re showing they care for you and want to provide for you, just as they would for their kin.

They Follow You from Room to Room

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If your cat follows you around the house like a little shadow, it’s more than just curiosity. Cats stick close to those they consider part of their group for safety and companionship. Your cat feels a sense of security and closeness by staying near you, and this behavior mimics the way they would stick close to their family in the wild.

They Headbutt and Nuzzle You

When your cat bumps their head or rubs their face against you, it’s not just an affectionate gesture—it’s their way of marking you with their scent. Cats have scent glands on their head and face, and by headbutting or nuzzling you, they’re claiming you as part of their territory. This is a strong sign that they see you as part of their trusted inner circle.

They Sleep on You (or Close to You)

Cats are at their most vulnerable when they sleep, and they’ll only choose to rest near those they trust. If your cat regularly naps on your lap, at your feet, or even on your pillow, they’re showing that they feel completely safe and secure around you. Sleeping near you is a way of staying connected, just as they would do with other family members in a feline colony.

They Give You the Slow Blink

The slow blink is often referred to as a “cat kiss.” When your cat looks at you and slowly closes and opens their eyes, it’s a sign of affection and trust. In the wild, cats would never close their eyes around someone they don’t trust, so this relaxed gesture shows that your cat feels comfortable and safe with you. Try slow blinking back—it’s a great way to communicate love in return!

Family, Feline Style

Cats have their own unique ways of showing affection and trust, and many of these behaviors stem from how they would interact with their family in the wild. Whether your cat is following you around, grooming you, or giving you a slow blink, they’re expressing that you’re not just a friend—you’re family. The next time your cat headbutts you or curls up at your feet, know that you’re firmly in their inner circle.

Heath, S. (2005). Why Does My Cat Do That?: Answers to the 50 Questions Cat Owners Ask. Hamlyn.

Turner, D. C., & Bateson, P. (2014). The Domestic Cat: The Biology of Its Behaviour. Cambridge University Press.

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