When a cat loves you, it will often display a variety of affectionate behaviors such as curling its tail, slow blinking, sleeping next to you, grooming you, kneading (making biscuits), bringing you 'gifts', presenting its rear, exposing its belly, licking your hair, meowing, and licking your head. Some cats may only bond deeply with one person in their lifetime, while others can form strong attachments with multiple humans.
1. Tail Curling
A cat who likes its human will approach with a gently raised tail, often with a curled tip. This indicates they are content and happy to be near you, a clear sign of affection. You can respond by gently stroking their back.
2. Slow Blinking
Cats express love by slowly blinking their eyes at their humans. If your cat frequently does this, it means they truly adore you. It's a subtle way of saying, 'I love you'. Reciprocate by blinking slowly back at them.
3. Sleeping Together
Cats are naturally cautious and light sleepers. If your cat chooses to sleep next to you, it signifies they feel safe and secure around you. This is also a significant display of their affection.
4. Grooming You
Cats express closeness by grooming each other. When a cat likes you, it might lick your hands or hair, effectively grooming you. This is an affectionate behavior.
5. Kneading (Making Biscuits)
Kneading, often called making biscuits, is a comforting behavior that harkens back to kittenhood. When a cat kneads on you, it indicates they are relaxed and see you as a parental figure. It's a sign of love and trust.
6. Presenting 'Gifts'
Cats often bring their humans gifts of their favorite toys or food. While humans may not view these items as valuable, cats do not understand this difference, and are simply sharing what they love. These gifts, which may include birds or mice, are a form of affection.
7. Showing You Their Rear
As kittens, mother cats lick their rear to stimulate elimination. A cat who presents their rear to you is demonstrating trust and comfort, seeing you as a maternal figure.
8. Exposing Their Belly
A cat's belly is very vulnerable, and they rarely expose it to those they don't trust. If your cat rolls onto their back, showing you their tummy, it's a massive sign of trust and affection.
9. Licking Your Hair
Cats use scent to mark their territory. When your cat rubs against you, they're leaving their scent on you, claiming you as part of their family. This is a way of expressing affection.
10. Being a 'Velcro Cat'
Despite their reputation for independence, cats can be very clingy when they love you. They might follow you around the house, whether you are using the bathroom or leaving for work. This unwavering companionship is another sign of their love.
11. Meowing
Cats often meow to get attention from their favorite humans. When they meow at you, they're often requesting affection, playtime, or simply your company. Consider playing with them using a toy such as a feather wand.
12. Licking Your Head
Cats frequently lick the heads of fellow cats they are close with. If your cat licks your head, they consider you part of their family and are showing you affection. They reserve such behavior for the people they trust the most.