Decoding Your Cat’s Behaviours

Cats are very affectionate animals, but their affection is often misunderstood when compared to other pets such as dogs. How cats show their love and affection may not always be obvious, but understanding their behaviour can allow you to reciprocate that affection in a love language that they understand, which can deepen the bond between you and your pet. We’ll be exploring how cats show affection and love, and delving into what shapes the behaviour of cats.

What’s Your Cat’s Love Language?

​Just like human beings express their love and like to receive love in different ways, so too do cats. How they show love might not always be how they like to receive love, and by paying attention to the behaviours of your cat, you can become attuned to their feelings and make them feel loved.

​Vocalisations

​Cats can communicate their feelings through various vocalisations for affection or a desire for interaction. Whilst it can be difficult to interpret, trying to learn the sounds your cat makes can help you to understand them better. Purring is often interpreted as a sign that your cat is happy and relaxed, and whilst this is often true, it can also be a sign of anxiety or if they want attention, so it’s important to learn the difference. If your cat curls up next to you and starts to purr, it is more likely to mean that they feel safe and comfortable in your presence than if they are hiding.

​Physical Affection

Physical actions are another example of how cats show their affection, trust, comfort, and love. Slow blinking, for instance, is a sign of their trust and affection, and reciprocating this can signal to your cat that you understand them. If your cat bumps their head against you or rubs their cheeks against you, they are not only showing you their affection, but they are marking you with their scent, and claiming you as your own. 

Kneading is another behaviour that shows your cat is at ease, and it is a behaviour that often stems from when they were kittens. If your cat rolls onto its back and shows you its belly, it’s a sign of trust and should be taken as a sign of love. Exposing their vital organs to you is a sign that your cat feels completely secure around you. Finally, just like dogs, cats can lick you as a sign of affection, but unlike dogs, their intention has a different purpose. When your cat licks you, it’s a form of grooming and shows that they care for you.

Gestures

​In addition to vocalisations and physical affection, cats also show their affection through their gestures and behaviours as well. If your cat’s tail is high for example, it typically is a sign that your cat is feeling happy and confident. Whilst it is often not appreciated by owners, if your cat brings an animal they have hunted - or even bringing you a toy - it is a meaningful gesture that shows they are looking for your approval or affection. Additionally, when your cat engages you in playtime, it shows that they want to spend time and have fun with you.

​What Shapes Your Cat’s Love Language

All cats are different, and whilst they can show their feelings and emotions in similar ways, learning to understand your cat’s love language can bring you closer together. Your cat’s behaviour is a combination of nature and nurture, with some of their learning coming from the time they have spent with you, and some of that learning from when they were kittens and spending time with their mother. 

Whilst cats may not always express their love in a manner as obvious as dogs do, their gestures reflect deep emotional connections with those they trust most. By responding positively to these signs of affection - whether through gentle petting or engaging play - you can strengthen your bond with your pet even further. Over time, you will learn how to recognise your cat's vocalisations, behaviours, and gestures, which can not only help you to understand their love and affection but also show you how you can share that love back with them.

At Ripponlea Veterinary Hospital we understand that your pet is like family, which is why we offer the very best care in Melbourne. From general checkups and advice to specialised treatments, our team can help. Whether your pet is young or old, big or small, schedule an appointment with us to ensure your pet has the best quality of life!