There is a common stereotype that while dogs are loving and loyal, cats are aloof and lack warm feelings toward people. But as many cat owners know, stereotypes are often based more on myths and misunderstandings than on reality. Although cats are often very independent creatures, this does not mean that they do not care about their family members.Researchshows that cats can truly love their people and that they will even show it in different ways.
Does my cat love me or what do I do for him?
As the provider of food, shelter, and cuddles for your cat, it's reasonable to be a little skeptical about his feelings toward you. After all, your fellow pet owners are also skeptical: "Does my cat love me?" Google searches between 3,000 and 4,000 times a month in the US alone (according toMozdata), with thousands of additional searches for “signs my cat loves me” and even “does my cat love me or food?”
Cat parents: it's time to stop being so insecure. Astudy published in Current Biologyfound that cats form attachment bonds with their human caregivers in much the same way that dogs and human children do. After observing important secure attachment behaviors in more than 65% of the cats and kittens involved in the study, researchers at Oregon State University concluded that "we may be underestimating cats' social-cognitive skills."
10 Signs Your Cat Loves You
Of course, seeing is believing. People still have a lot to learn when it comes to cats, and it's not like we can just ask them how they are doing. Nevertheless, certain cat behaviors are considered signs that they love their people. Are you curious about what your four-legged friend thinks about you? Here are some of the top signs that your cat loves you:
1. Your cat purrs around you
Cat behaviorists have discovered that cats purr for a variety of reasons, but they believe that purring primarily begins as a form of communication and bonding mechanism between kittens and their mothers. It is also a common indicator of comfort and convenience. If your cat is purring contentedly near you, chances are he also feels attached to you and is relaxed in your presence.
2. They're on you
Cats pounce on their prey, but if your kitten calmly sits on you, it is a sign of trust and affection. This is especially true if your cat purrs while doing so. And is there any kneading (rhythmic bending and pushing with the legs)? You better believe that your cat sees you as family - there's moretheories about why cats knead, and almost all of them involve comfort and affection.
3. You've seen the 'slow blink'
Cats are very expressive with their facial features, especially when it comes to their eyes. Not only is eye contact with you considered a sign of trust, but a slow wink in your direction can also be a clear sign of affection. If you see your cat give you a long, drawn-out wink while looking at you, he's feeling comfortable failing in your presence and showing trust and affection. Go ahead and try to flash back slowly to show that you agree.
4. You have a roommate
If you haven't noticed yet,your cat is sleepinga lot of. But like most animals, cats are most vulnerable when they sleep. As a result, they only sleep where they feel most comfortable and safe. If it's you, congratulations! Your cat certainly sees you in a positive light.
5. They give you gifts
Although cats are not pack animals by nature, they can form social groups or 'colonies'. And as natural hunters, cats have the urge to attack fast-moving objects and catch "prey." Whether it's a toy or an actual small animal, your cat is showing loyalty and affection and giving you one of these gifts. Another common theory is that your cat cares about you and is trying to teach you to hunt for your own well-being and survival. In other words, they see you as an important part of their family.
Of course, you may not appreciate all of their gifts. If your cat brings you something unpleasant (such as a dead rodent or insect), try not to react with disgust or anger. This can be difficult if you're a sensitive type, but if you don't control your reaction it can only confuse your cat and even cause negative feelings (after all, who wants their gift rejected?). No matter how hard it is, stay calm. down and just clean up. Be sure to thoroughly clean any surface the "gift" has touched. If your cat is indoors only, you will also want to check your home for possible entrances where rodents or other things could get in. When you're done, give your cat a few scratches because he's such a good warrior.
6. Headbanging happens
Does your buddy come forward and push his head against you? It may seem like they are just being playful, but cat behaviorists claim that this can be a very powerful form of affection. It is an action known as head "bunting",according to Mental Floss, and it is usually reserved for members of the cat colony.
That said, don't confuse head banging with prolonged pressure on the head, which cats can do when they are in pain. If your cat presses his head against yours or furniture, or starts making strange noises, he may need medical attention.
7. You are being followed
Have you ever noticed that Kitty likes to follow you around the house? There may be many reasons for this – from wanting to eat to being anxious – but there are many cases where your cat simply enjoys your company and wants to be with you. If it's not nearly feeding time yet and your cat isn't acting like he wants anything, chances are he's just trying to bask in your presence.
8. You've seen your cat's belly a lot
If you're not a stranger when your cat turns around to show you its belly, you're definitely an important person. This position puts cats in a vulnerable position and therefore they will only do this around people they know completely. If that isn't love, we don't know what is.
However, remember that just because your cat is showing you his belly doesn't necessarily mean he's open to belly rubs. Some cats love to be petted here, but many others do not. Pay close attention to the rest of your cat's body language to avoid scratching him, not to mention maintain the loving relationship between the two of you.
9. It can be seen on the tail
If you're still thinking, "Does my cat love me?" look at their tail. According to animal behaviorist and cat specialist Marilyn Krieger, cats often areshow affection through their tail. A curved tip is a friendly greeting and invitation to interact with your cat, while a more exuberant display of affection involves your cat wrapping its tail around your hands, ankles, arms, or really just any part of your body.
10. They take care of you
As mother cats care for their young,cats connecting with each otherwill often cherish each other and show comfort and familial acceptance. If you notice your cat licking you repeatedly, you've spilled something delicious on yourself, or he sees you as a close family member. To return the favor, use a cat brush with gentle movements.
How to show your cat you care
Naturally, you want to reciprocate your furry friend's feelings. While it is always possibleshare the loveWith plenty of cuddles and the occasional treat, it's also important to take time to play with your cat and keep him active.
Of course, even the most loving cats don't always want to be showered with attention. Another good way to show that you care is to take an interest in your cat's health and protect him from unexpected illnessespet insurance. Sure, Kitty may not enjoy trips to the vet, but they are an important part of ensuring he gets to spend many more years with the human he loves (that's you!)
Do you have a dog? Don't worry - yoursthe dog friend loves you too.
