People who do not own cats have a hard time understanding the deep affection that cats have for humans and that humans have for cats. In many ways, cats are not much different then dogs. Granted, you cannot do the same things with cats that you can do with dogs, but the relationship is a deep, quiet one. There is something special about the love that cats have for people, it is hard to put into words. The best way to describe it is to imagine sitting quietly with your closest friend, no words needed, but knowing that you are there for each other no matter what. Imagine the feeling of security, peace, and understanding that you and your friend share. This is what cat love is like.

 Some cats are very demonstrative and easily show their affection while other cats are more like the best friend experience described above. This does not mean that they are not bonded or don’t love their owners, they simply show it differently. Just like dogs and people, cats have different personalities. Some are cuddly and others like to share from a distance.

 Many people recognize canine displays of affection, but do not recognize feline displays of affection. While each cat has their own special way of demonstrating their love for their owner, some types of body language and behavior are common with all cats.

 Here is a list of the most common ways cats show affection:

 1. The most recognized sign of affection is when a cat purrs, however, not all purring is a sign of affection. For example a cat who is in pain or stressed will often purr. It is thought to be a way to relieve stress. However almost without a doubt if a cat is near a human and purrs along with a contented face, it is a sign of affection.  Cat purrs can range from soft and subtle to very loud. Kittens can purr from the time they are two days old. There have been a number of studies about how and why cats purr, it is considered the equivalent of a cat smile, a healing mechanism and a form of communication, but by and large, it is still a mystery.

 2. Tails are another indication of affection. Kittens will greet their mother with their tail straight up and the end tipped over just a little.  When the cat gets close to his favorite person, the tail will stay up with the end slightly tipped and the cat will raise their butt, sort of like walking on their hind toes. This is an invitation to scratch them above the tail. Happy cats usually have their tails raised and the tip of the tail in a slight hook.

 3. Cats can show affection by the location they choose to sleep.  This is because a cat sleeps up to 16 hours a day and they are the most vulnerable while sleeping. Therefore if a cat sleeps near, on or next to his person, it is a way the cat tells you that he trusts and feels safe near you. When an owner is not at home, the cat may choose to sleep on their person’s bed, chair or pillow.

 

4. Much to the dismay of some cat owners, cat gifting is another sign of affection.  I does not matter if the gift is a dead critter, a bug, or a toy, cats only give gifts to the people they love.

 5. Rolling is another sign of affection. If your cat throws himself down in front of you or near you, it is a sign that they love you and often that they want to play. Cats will only do this to engage you to play with them. It does not mean that they want their belly rubbed or scratched. Some cats do not mind belly rubs but most do not care for it.

 6. Scratching is another signal that a cat feels that you are theirs. When cats do this, they leave their scent from scent glands that are located between their pads and toes. They will do this to say that the object of their scratching is theirs. Much the same as family members feel that their family is theirs.

 7. Bumping or bunting is a term that is used when a cat will cheek rub, head butt or wrap themselves or their tail around you. This is a very high complement from a cat.  A cat will do this to other cats, dogs and their favorite human.

 8. Kneading is another sign that the cat is very happy and contented. They often do this while purring.  The behavior goes back to kitten hood when the kitten would knead the mother’s breast to help milk production. Cats only do this with people they hold in high regard.

 9. Playing is an engaging behavior that a cat will only do with someone they feel safe with and love. Often a cat will bring a toy to their person and drop it just out of reach. This way you have to go to them. Playing is also a form of gifting.

 10. Cat eyes are very large in proportion to their heads. This makes them easy to read, cats use their eyes as a form of communication. When a cat puts his face near yours, with wide soft eyes, it is a sign of love. If the cat is across the room and gives you a slow blink, it is sort of the cat’s way of throwing kisses to you.  Often if you blink slowly to your cat, the cat will blink back.

 11. Nose nibbles are one of the most flattering things your cat can do to show affection. Often a cat will do it while you are asleep. It is not a bite and does not hurt, but is a gentle nibble on the tip of your nose.

 The next time you interact with your cat, pay close attention to what your cat is telling you, it may be a pleasant surprise.