10 Surprising Ways Your Cat Shows Love

Cats have a reputation for being fiercely independent, but if you think your feline friend is indifferent to you, think again! Cats have their own unique ways of expressing love—it’s just not always as obvious as a dog’s tail-wagging excitement. Here are 10 surprising ways your cat shows love (even if they pretend they don’t care).

1. Slow Blinking = Kitty Kisses

Ever notice your cat staring at you, then slowly closing and reopening their eyes? That’s not just a sleepy blink—it’s a kitty kiss**!** In the feline world, slow blinking is a sign of trust and affection. Try blinking back at them to say, “I love you, too!”

2. Head Butts (a.k.a. “Bunting”)

When your cat gently head-butts you, they’re not just being cute—they’re marking you with their scent. This is a way of claiming you as their own, and in cat language, that’s a big deal!

3. Bringing You “Gifts”

Sure, it’s not ideal when your cat drops a dead mouse at your feet, but in their mind, this is an act of love (and maybe a little hunting lesson for their “inexperienced” human). If your indoor cat brings you toys instead, that’s their way of sharing their prized possessions with you.

4. Tail Twitching & Wrapping Around You

A cat’s tail is like a mood ring. If your cat approaches you with their tail straight up and the tip twitching, they’re happy to see you. And if they wrap their tail around your arm or leg? That’s a feline hug—congratulations, you’re officially loved!

5. Following You Everywhere

Does your cat follow you from room to room—even into the bathroom? That’s because they genuinely enjoy your company! Cats don’t waste their energy on things (or people) they don’t care about.

6. Kneading You Like Dough

Those little paws pressing into your lap? That’s called kneading, and it’s something kittens do to their mothers to stimulate milk flow. When your adult cat kneads you, they’re showing that same feeling of comfort and love. Bonus: It’s also a sign they see you as their “cat parent.”

7. Showing You Their Belly (But Maybe Not for Belly Rubs!)

If your cat flops over and exposes their belly, it means they trust you completely. But beware—just because they show their belly doesn’t mean they want belly rubs! Unlike dogs, many cats find belly touches overstimulating.

8. Sleeping Near (or On) You

Cats are most vulnerable when they sleep, so if your kitty chooses to nap next to you (or better yet, right on your chest), it’s a huge sign of love and trust.

9. Grooming You

If your cat licks your hand, face, or even your hair, they’re treating you like family. Grooming is a way cats bond with one another, so if your cat is giving you a tongue bath, you’re officially part of the inner circle.

10. The Silent Presence of Love

Sometimes, love is quiet. If your cat simply sits near you, watches over you, or rests in the same room, that’s their way of saying, “I love you” without making a big fuss about it.

Final Thoughts

Cats may not always be obvious with their affection, but once you learn their secret love language, you’ll realise just how much they adore you. Which of these signs does your cat show?