How to tell if your cat likes you

Cats have their own unique ways of showing affection and trust. While they might not always display their feelings as overtly as some other pets, there are several signs that can indicate your cat has a strong bond with you:

Purring

While cats can purr for various reasons, including discomfort or distress, they often purr when they're content and comfortable. If your cat purrs when it's with you, especially during petting or cuddling sessions, it's a good sign of affection.

Kneading

If your cat kneads you with its paws (sometimes referred to as "making biscuits"), it's often a sign of comfort and affection. This behavior harks back to kittenhood when they would knead their mother's belly to stimulate milk flow.

Slow Blinking

Cats will often give slow, languid blinks to those they trust and feel comfortable with. This "cat kiss" can be reciprocated by slowly blinking back at them.

Head-Butting or Nuzzling

When a cat gently bumps its head against you or nuzzles you, it's a sign of affection. They have scent glands on their heads, so this behavior also marks you as "theirs."

Bringing You "Gifts"

While it might not always be pleasant, especially if it's a hunted item, when a cat brings you gifts, it's a sign of trust and affection. They might be sharing their "hunt" with you.

Seeking Out Your Company

If your cat often follows you around, sits on your lap, or sleeps next to you, it's a clear sign that they enjoy your company.

Tail Position

A tail held high when they approach you is a sign of happiness and affection. If the tip of the tail twitches when they see you, it can also indicate excitement.

Grooming

• Self-grooming: If a cat feels comfortable enough to groom itself in your presence, it's a sign of trust.
• Allogrooming: If your cat tries to groom you, licking your hand or hair, it's a sign of affection and bonding.

Exposing Their Belly

The belly is a vulnerable area for cats. If your cat rolls over and shows you its belly, it's a sign of trust. However, be cautious, as not all cats like belly rubs.

Play Behavior

Initiating play or engaging in playful behavior with you indicates trust and affection.

Vocalizations

Some cats are more vocal than others, but meowing, chirping, or trilling at you can be their way of communicating and showing affection.

Rubbing Against You

When a cat rubs its cheeks or body against you, it's marking you with its scent, signifying that you belong to its "group."

Remember, every cat is an individual with its own personality and ways of showing affection. The key is to spend time with your cat, respect its boundaries, and learn to recognize its unique signs of affection. Building trust and bonding with a cat can take time, but the rewards are well worth the effort.