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Does Your Cat Love You? 5 Signs That Prove It

selective focus photography of orange and white cat on brown table
Cat head tilt. Image via Unsplash

Cats have a reputation for being independent, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love their humans. Unlike dogs, felines express affection in subtle ways that may not always be obvious. If you’ve ever wondered whether your cat truly cares for you, these five signs will give you the answer.

shallow focus photography of white and brown cat
shallow focus photography of white and brown cat. Image by Yerlin Matu via Unsplash.

In the feline world, prolonged eye contact can be a sign of trust, and slow blinking is the ultimate expression of love. If your cat locks eyes with you and gently closes and opens them, they’re essentially giving you a kitty kiss. Try returning the gesture—your cat might just blink back.

2. The Cat That Follows You

orange tabby cat on gray concrete floor
Cat Scratching in style. Image via Unspalsh

While dogs are known for trailing their owners, some cats do the same. If they follows you from room to room or insists on being nearby—even if it’s just sitting at a distance and watching—it’s their way of saying, “I like being with you.”

3. The Headbutt of Trust

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Feline behavior. Image by AekPN via Unsplash.

One of the most unmistakable signs of feline affection is headbutting, also known as bunting. When a cat presses their head against you, they’re marking you with their scent and claiming you as part of their family. It’s a powerful display of trust and love.

4. Kneading: A Throwback to Kittenhood

gray cat leaning on scratch post and looking on hanged fur fish
Feline playing with toy. Image via Unsplash

If they knead you with their paws, it’s a sign they associate you with comfort and security. This behavior originates from kittenhood, when they kneaded their mother while nursing. If your cat kneads you, consider it a compliment—you make them feel safe and content.

5. The Gift You Didn’t Ask For

a cat sitting on a bench next to a parrot
An unlikely duo. Image via Unsplash

It may not be pleasant to wake up to a “present” in the form of a toy, a sock, or even a small critter, but this is their way of showing love. In the wild, they share food with those they care about. If your cat brings you something, they’re treating you like family.

Understanding Cat Love

tabby cat on ledge
Feline Tail Wiggle. Image via Unsplash

While felines may not always be as outwardly affectionate as dogs, but their love is just as real. From slow blinks to headbutts, they have their own unique ways of showing it. If your cat exhibits any of these behaviors, rest assured—they love you in their own quiet, mysterious way.