Headbutts, round eyes and slow blinking - how to tell if cats actually like you

16 February 2023 , 11:29

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Cats show affection in multiple ways (Stock Image) (Image: Getty Images/Image Source)

Cats do their own thing and are unapologetic about it - and that's why so many people adore them. When they finally take the time out of their busy schedule to show you some affection, it feels like you're the chosen one.

But because of their aloof behaviour, sometimes it feels like they're impossible to understand. A dog's love for you may be written all over their faces, cats have more subtle ways of showing they're a fan of you, and you might not know what you're looking out for.

Samantha, scientific officer at the RSPCA, has explained ways you can check whether your cat really does love you.

It can be hard to know whether your cat is a fan of you (Getty Images)

She told the Metro: "There are a number of ways our cats tell us that they enjoy our company and feel safe with us.

"Learning to read your cat's body language is hugely beneficial as not only can it show you how they feel about you, but it will enable you to spot signs of stress and understand when they want to be left alone."

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If your cat gives you headbutts, then it means they're spreading their scent onto you - which is a good thing.

They're marking you as a friend, rather than a foe, ensuring they remember that you're part of their social group as scenting is one of the main senses for a cat.

If your cat is often found slowly blinking at you, or staring at you intensely, that also means that they want to be pals.

If they're relaxing and looking at you with round eyes, it's a good way to ensure that they feel calm and comfortable around you. And, if you want to show them that the trust is reciprocated, you can blink slowly back at them and give them a kitty kiss.

Blinking slowly at your cat will make them know you love them (Stock Image) (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

You can also tell a lot about how much a cat likes you from their tail position - if it's low and swishing, they may be stressed or unhappy, but if it's pointing upwards it may mean they're happy to see you.

If they make a peeping or trilling noise when you approach, it also means they're pleased.

But if a cat shows you their tummy, don't take it as an invitation to give it a rub - they're actually testing you.

If they roll over, rather than tickling their fluffy tum, give them a head scratch instead to show that their trust hasn't been misplaced.

And if a cat licks you, it means they're trying to groom you - this means that they see you as a member of their team and they love you.

But be wary of your cat overgrooming, because this could mean there is something wrong with them.

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Does your cat love you? Let us know in the comments.

Danielle Kate Wroe