behavior ·
CATS & LOVE
By Helen Wilson
Do cats feel the emotion of love? Animal experts and cat lovers say “yes”! Cats do feel love for their humans and companions. They not only want to be around us, cats enjoy having an interactive relationship and understand us. The National Institute of Health finds that cats “integrate visual and auditory signals to recognize human emotions.” (NIH.gov)
Cats show their love by following their human around, sleeping near them, “slow blinking” and other behaviors. They verbalize their love by meowing, purring and “trilling”. Other physical signs of cat love are displayed when they show their belly, twitch their tail and raise it around people, and rub against them. As for kisses, some cats accept them and others do not!
Each cat behavior has its nuances. A straight, quivering tail means they are excited and very happy. An arched back and flat fur tell us the cat is welcoming our touch, and if our cat is lying on its back purring, it is very relaxed and happy! Twirling around their human’s legs is a special treat for a cat person. “Kneading” is sometimes called “making biscuits”, a leftover behavior from kittenhood and nursing. This adorable behavior means kitty is very happy, and they want us to know it! (from the Humane Society of the U.S.)
“Bunting” is a love gift from your cat wherein kitty rubs against your arm or leg or face to leave its scent! They reserve this behavior for their most trusted humans. They want other animals to know that you are THEIR person. Lap sitting is another welcome love message.
Cats also have a bond of affection with other cats and pets in their home and will snuggle up with another cat. The relationship between cats and litter mates or shelter mate is the reason why many shelters place “bonded pairs” together. Cats will even snuggle up with a dog in a cozy hug. If a pet or human in the house is not feeling well, your cat may be found by their side. Our furry friends play a role in acclimating cats in fostering homes. Felines are also a welcome presence in barns and stables. They are known for calming horses, especially racehorses. In nursing homes and prisons, they happily give and receive love.
Experts believe cats know when they are loved (or if someone dislikes them). To show your cat your love on Valentine’s Day, pet them and give chin rubs and scratches; try a “slow blink”. Offer their favorite toys and snacks and enjoy play time with them. Celebrate love!
Do cats feel the emotion of love? Animal experts and cat lovers say “yes”! Cats do feel love for their humans and companions. They not only want to be around us, cats enjoy having an interactive relationship and understand us. The National Institute of Health finds that cats “integrate visual and auditory signals to recognize human emotions.” (NIH.gov)
Cats show their love by following their human around, sleeping near them, “slow blinking” and other behaviors. They verbalize their love by meowing, purring and “trilling”. Other physical signs of cat love are displayed when they show their belly, twitch their tail and raise it around people, and rub against them. As for kisses, some cats accept them and others do not!
Each cat behavior has its nuances. A straight, quivering tail means they are excited and very happy. An arched back and flat fur tell us the cat is welcoming our touch, and if our cat is lying on its back purring, it is very relaxed and happy! Twirling around their human’s legs is a special treat for a cat person. “Kneading” is sometimes called “making biscuits”, a leftover behavior from kittenhood and nursing. This adorable behavior means kitty is very happy, and they want us to know it! (from the Humane Society of the U.S.)
“Bunting” is a love gift from your cat wherein kitty rubs against your arm or leg or face to leave its scent! They reserve this behavior for their most trusted humans. They want other animals to know that you are THEIR person. Lap sitting is another welcome love message.
Cats also have a bond of affection with other cats and pets in their home and will snuggle up with another cat. The relationship between cats and litter mates or shelter mate is the reason why many shelters place “bonded pairs” together. Cats will even snuggle up with a dog in a cozy hug. If a pet or human in the house is not feeling well, your cat may be found by their side. Our furry friends play a role in acclimating cats in fostering homes. Felines are also a welcome presence in barns and stables. They are known for calming horses, especially racehorses. In nursing homes and prisons, they happily give and receive love.
Experts believe cats know when they are loved (or if someone dislikes them). To show your cat your love on Valentine’s Day, pet them and give chin rubs and scratches; try a “slow blink”. Offer their favorite toys and snacks and enjoy play time with them. Celebrate love!