We’ve all been there: admiring a beautiful cat, offering a gentle hand, and wondering if our overtures are welcome or just tolerated. Cats, with their often enigmatic expressions, can sometimes leave us guessing about their true feelings. But beneath that cool facade, most cats are surprisingly communicative – you just need to know how to read their unique language of love!
If you’ve ever wondered if your feline friend truly enjoys your company, look for these seven tell-tale signs that your cat likes you (a lot!):
1. The Purr-fect Symphony
This is probably the most obvious and widely recognized sign of a happy cat. A deep, rumbling purr, especially when you’re petting them or they’re curled up next to you, is a strong indicator of contentment and affection. While cats can purr for other reasons (like stress or pain), a relaxed, rhythmic purr in your presence is almost always a sign of a happy, loving cat.
2. The Slow Blink: The Cat Kiss
If a cat looks at you and slowly closes and then opens their eyes, return the gesture! This “slow blink” is often referred to as a “cat kiss.” It’s a sign of trust and affection, indicating that they feel safe and comfortable enough to drop their guard in your presence. Try it back, and you might just get another slow blink in return!
3. The Head Nuzzle and Cheek Rubs (Bunting)
When a cat rubs their head or cheeks against you, your leg, or even your furniture, they’re not just being cute (though they are!). This behavior, called “bunting,” is how cats transfer their scent from glands on their face. By doing this, they’re essentially marking you as part of their accepted social group, saying, “You’re one of us!”
4. Tail Talk: The Upright and Quivering Flag
A cat’s tail is a remarkably expressive appendage. When a cat approaches you with their tail held high and a slight quiver at the tip, it’s a very positive sign. This indicates happiness, excitement, and a friendly greeting. Think of it as their equivalent of a human wagging their tail.
5. Kneading: Making Biscuits of Love
Often called “making biscuits,” kneading is a rhythmic pushing motion with their paws (sometimes with claws extended, sometimes not) against a soft surface, like your lap. This behavior harks back to kittenhood, when they would knead their mother to stimulate milk flow. When an adult cat kneads on you, it’s a sign of ultimate comfort, contentment, and deep affection – they feel completely at ease and loved in your presence.
6. Bringing You “Gifts” (Even the Gross Ones)
Okay, this one might not always feel like a compliment, especially if the “gift” is a dead mouse or bug. However, from your cat’s perspective, they are bringing you a valuable offering, demonstrating their hunting prowess and sharing their bounty with a trusted member of their “colony” (that’s you!). It’s a slightly messy, but undeniably loving gesture.
7. Following You Around and Seeking Proximity
Does your cat follow you from room to room? Do they choose to nap in the same room as you, even if they’re not directly on your lap? This desire for proximity is a clear sign that they enjoy your company and feel secure in your presence. They simply want to be near you, even if they’re not constantly demanding attention.
The Takeaway
Understanding these subtle cues can deepen your bond with your feline companion. Remember, every cat is an individual, and some may express their affection more demonstrably than others. But by paying attention to these signs, you’ll be well on your way to knowing just how much your cat truly likes you. So go forth, observe, and enjoy the unique love of your purr-fect friend!
