We’ve all heard the comments: cats don’t show affection. Cats don’t love you the way dogs do.
Cats don’t show love the way dogs do. That’s because cats are a different species, and they have their own unique way of communicating.
If you ever wondered “does my cat love me?” you’ll be glad to know there are sure signs you can look for. Once you learn how to read a cat’s love language, you’ll be saying “I love you too” every time they bring you a dead mouse.
Here are eight signs that your cat really, truly loves you.
Purring
Cats purr when they’re deeply relaxed and content. If your kitty rubs up against you and rumbles in the morning, or makes biscuits while purring loudly in your lap, it’s a sign of their deep attachment and comfort. For many cats, purring is synonymous with “I love you.”
Slow Blinks
Slow blinks are one of the clearest ways a cat demonstrates affection. For cats, closing their eyes in the presence of another animal or human is a huge sign of trust. When your cat gazes at you and blinks slowly, or closes their eyes when you pet them, they’re telling you they trust you completely. And trust is a fundamental aspect of love.
Showing the Belly
Your cat’s soft, fuzzy tummy is one of its most vulnerable spots. When they invite you to give them a belly rub, they’re showing you how much they care.
Grooming
Kitty licks are a way of mingling their scent with yours, which sounds kind of gross—but is a compliment. Scent-sharing builds community among cats, and helps them relax and feel at home. If your cat is an affectionate licker, take it as a sign that they share your love.
Head Bumps and Cheek Rubs
When your cat “boops” you with her forehead, she’s not just being cute; she’s depositing pheromones from scent glands on her head. These head butts, also called “bunting,” are a way of marking you as safe.
Cheek rubs are another form of bunting. Cats have additional scent glands on the sides of their mouth, and they deposit pheromones by rubbing their cheeks against things.
When your cat “marks” you, they’re showing how much they trust you. And they may also be picking up your scent because it makes them feel safe. Scent-sharing is a major sign of cat love!
Biscuits and Love Bites
Kneading, or making biscuits, is a sign that your kitty is in love. Kittens knead while nursing, and the behavior transfers to adulthood as a sign of deep contentment. Similarly, when cats dole out gentle nibbles, it’s a playful sign of affection.
Bringing You “Gifts”
Cats are natural hunters, and they only share their prey with someone they trust. So if your cat brings you a “present,” think of it as a sign of love.
Hanging Out
If your cat likes to hang out but not be touched much, or won’t snuggle but loves to play fetch, take their companionship as confirmation that they love you.