11 Signs That Show Your Cat Is Deeply Attached to You

A common misconception is that cats are selfish and headstrong creatures driven by instinct. While it’s true that earning a cat’s affection isn’t always easy, when a cat decides to trust you, you can be sure you’re doing something very right!

Those who have taken the time and effort to build a bond with a cat know they are highly affectionate animals capable of genuinely loving their owners. To share from personal experience, our cat Lujza came into our lives as a stray. It took a long time before we could even get close to her. Petting her was out of the question; we were just happy when she accepted food. But now, she’s the cuddliest, friendliest, and most lovable cat in the world! Well, of course, everyone feels that way about their own cat. Still, she’s changed so much—she almost behaves like a dog in her affection towards us. We even nicknamed her “the cat-dog”! Let me share the signs that indicate a deep and genuine bond between a cat and their human.

Cats and the Love Bond

Our purring friends express love in more subtle ways, but this doesn’t mean that the bond between cats and humans is any less strong than the one between dogs and humans. It simply means we need to work harder to understand a cat’s unique love language and boundaries to build trust.

A cat’s body language, behavior, and vocalizations often reveal their level of trust and affection. Understanding these signs can help us strengthen the loving bond with our furry companions. Here are some of the most common ways cats show love:

1.) Slow Blinking

It’s said that the eyes are the windows to the soul, and cats seem to know this well. Many cats use eye contact to express their affection for their owners. Slow blinking is often referred to as the cat version of a kiss by experts. Try it yourself—slowly blink at your cat to reciprocate their love.

2.) Head Bunting

When cats rub their heads against your head or face, they’re demonstrating social behavior developed during kittenhood when interacting with their littermates and mother. By doing this, they’re also marking you with pheromones from glands on their head, signaling to others that you’re “theirs.”

3.) Grooming

Cats groom each other as a way to express love, and when trust develops, this behavior extends to humans too. You may notice your cat licking you or allowing you to groom them, such as brushing their fur.

However, watch for signs like rapid tail swishing, growling, or hissing, as grooming—especially brushing—can sometimes overstimulate them.

4.) Kneading

Cats often knead with their front paws. This behavior is carried over from kittenhood when they kneaded their mother to stimulate milk flow during nursing. Kneading is believed to release endorphins, which help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Cats usually knead when they feel calm and content, such as when being gently petted.

5.) Showing Their Belly

When cats lie on their back and expose their belly, it’s considered the ultimate sign of trust. In this position, they’re at their most relaxed state. However, this doesn’t mean you should immediately start petting their belly. Instead, they’re communicating that they feel safe enough to reveal one of the most vulnerable parts of their body.

6.) Purring

Cats often purr to express contentment, especially when resting near you or being petted. However, purring can also occur when they’re nervous or stressed. In such cases, their body language may include flattened ears, a lowered head, rapid tail swishing, or hiding.

7.) Greeting

If your cat waits for you at the door when you come home, it’s a sign they missed you. As you enter, they may walk between your legs, wrap their tail around your calf, and sometimes accompany this with meowing or a quick tail flick. However, they might also be signaling other needs, such as being ready for a meal, needing fresh water, or having their litter box cleaned. Be sure to check these as well!

8.) Following

Cats often follow those they love and trust. This behavior is similar to greeting you at the front door, showing their affection and interest in being near you.

9.) Tail Curled Upward

Cats frequently use their tails to express their fondness for their humans. A happy cat often holds their tail upright with the tip forming a slight hook. When lying beside you in a relaxed state, they might also gently flick their tail back and forth, occasionally touching you with it.

10.) Gift-Giving

Cats are natural hunters at heart, no matter where they live. Even indoor cats may occasionally catch a flying insect and present it as a gift to their owners. While this might not always delight the recipient—especially if a dead mouse is left on the doormat—it’s actually a sign of love and pride. If live prey isn’t available, cats may substitute toys as gifts, demonstrating the same sentiment.

11.) Sleeping Near You

Cats that choose to sleep on or near their owners are showing trust and affection. Even if a cat simply naps in their owner’s vicinity, it signals that they feel safe and secure.

Tips for Gaining Your Cat’s Love

1. Play Daily: Use wand toys, fetch games, pet-safe bubbles, or any safe activities your cat enjoys. By providing engaging and predictable fun, your cat will associate you with positive experiences, strengthening your bond.
2. Teach Tricks: Mental stimulation is vital for reducing stress and ensuring your cat stays happy, especially for indoor-only cats. Spend about 15 minutes a day teaching tricks and rewarding progress. However, not all cats enjoy learning tricks—if it seems to stress them, don’t push it.
3. Let Them Set the Pace: Allow your furry friend to dictate how much physical affection and interaction they want. Many cats tolerate cuddling with their owners, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they enjoy it. Respect their boundaries for a stronger connection.