How to Tell If a Cat Has Chosen You
Cats are known for being independent and selective creatures. While dogs often wear their affection openly, cats are subtler in showing their emotions and connections. If you’re wondering whether a feline friend has chosen you as their favorite human, there are several signs to look for that indicate trust, comfort, and true bonding.
1. They Follow You Around
If a cat regularly follows you from room to room or prefers to be wherever you are, it’s a strong sign of attachment. They enjoy your presence and consider you part of their territory and social circle.
2. They Bring You Gifts
Cats are natural hunters. When they bring you dead (or sometimes live) prey like mice or birds, this is actually a mark of affection. In the cat's mind, it’s caring for you as it would another member of its pack.
3. They Rub Against You
When a cat rubs its head, tail, or body against you, it's marking you with its scent. This is a way of claiming you as theirs, further indicating that you’re someone they trust and feel connected to.
4. They Show You Their Belly
Exposing the belly is a cat’s ultimate show of trust. This vulnerable area is rarely offered unless the cat feels safe around you. If your cat lies on its back and shows off its tummy, it’s a good sign you've been chosen.
5. Purring and Kneading
- Purring: Cats purr when they’re content and happy. If they do this around you, particularly while resting on you or as you pet them, they likely feel safe and loved.
- Kneading: Often a behavior from kittenhood, kneading is associated with comfort and connection. If your cat kneads your lap or blanket, it’s another display of affection.
6. They Make Eye Contact and Blink Slowly
In the cat world, direct, sustained eye contact is rare and often confrontational. But if your cat looks at you and does a slow blink, it’s often called a “cat kiss.” You can return the gesture to bond even more with your feline.
7. Vocalization That’s Different Just for You
Cats develop unique vocal patterns with humans they are attached to. If your cat ‘talks’ to you, responds to your voice, or greets you with trills, meows, or chirps, it’s because they feel a special bond with you.
8. They Sleep on or Near You
Sleeping is when cats are most vulnerable. If your cat chooses to nap on your lap, in your bed, or curled up near you, it's a major indicator of trust. It means they feel protected by you.
9. Grooming Behavior
If a cat licks or grooms you, it's mimicking social behaviors used with other cats. Mutual grooming is a high sign of affection and social acceptance, reserved for trusted companions.
10. Tail Language
- Upright tail: When a cat approaches you with its tail up, it’s a sign of friendliness and enthusiasm.
- Tail vibrates slightly: This can be a sign of excitement, much like a wagging dog's tail.
Final Thoughts
While cats may seem enigmatic, their behaviors are filled with meaning. If your cat exhibits multiple signs from this list, it’s highly likely they’ve chosen you as their favorite human. Cherish and reciprocate this trust by providing a loving, secure environment—and plenty of chin scratches.
