Do Cats Love Their Owners?

We all know the stereotypes: cats are aloof, mysterious, and cold. But, for those of us who love and/or live with cats, we know that the stereotypes don’t always ring true. But it is true that cats express affection in different, less obvious ways than dogs, which can make new and old cat parents alike wonder: do cats really love their owners? We sat down with Chris Hummel, DVM and Lindsey Gold, DVM to learn why the answer is, undeniably, “Yes!”

Do dogs love their owners more than cats?

“It seems like a lot of dogs just love everyone whereas, with cats, you have to earn it,” says Dr. Gold. But it’s important to note that things are not always as they seem! Many dogs may shower their owners with enthusiastic kisses and tail wags, so cats can seem reserved and subtle in comparison, but it’s unfair to say dogs love their owners more than cats do. With just a touch of attention and observation, it’s very obvious that cats are just as loving and affectionate as dogs are.

How do cats see humans?

The answer, Dr. Hummel says, is based on your cat’s personality and can vary from “fellow hunters to caregivers.” In a 2019 study by Cell Press, it was revealed that kittens often exhibit the same behavior to their human parents as they would to their biological parents, which continues into adulthood. Either way, from a cat's perspective, humans are members of their social group. 

How do cats show affection?

Dr. Hummel and Dr. Gold agreed that the most sure-fire way of knowing if your cat cares for you is to tune in to their behavior. If you want to be sure your cat loves you, keep an eye out for the following signs:

Purring and Trilling

That comfy, cozy motor sound is usually a sign your cat is feeling the same way! However, some cats may purr to self-soothe when they're hungry or stressed, so it's important to look for other context clues — like the other signs below.


Trilling, on the other hand, is a universal sign of affection in cats. These melodic, high-pitched, purr-adjacent noises are almost always reserved for their most favorite humans and are usually performed in greeting or in gratitude after a pat or snack.

Kneading

Whether they’re making bread, biscuits, or cookies, this kneading behavior is a throwback to kittenhood when they kneaded their mother's belly to stimulate milk flow. When your cat kneads you, it's a sign of comfort and trust.

Head-Butting or Head Bunting

Cats have scent glands located on their cheeks, forehead, and chin. When they rub their head against you, they are doing so to create physical contact and leave their scent on you. When they do this, they're not only marking you as their territory but also expressing affection. Consider it a kitty kiss!

Slow Blinking

In some cases, cats (like most animals) may perceive direct eye contact as a threat. To diffuse the tension of prolonged eye contact, cats will slowly and deliberately blink as a sign of vulnerability and trust. If they extend that same gesture to you, it’s the same as saying, "I feel safe and relaxed around you."

Body Language

An easy way to gain insight into a cat’s mood is to watch their tail. A tail held high and straight, with no twitching or shaking, is the cat version of an exclamation point. They’re happy to see you! Another tell-tale example of loving body language is when your cat shows off their soft, fluffy belly. (Though be careful of petting them there!)

Bringing Gifts

While it may not always be pleasant, the act of bringing you "presents" such as dead mice or birds (or favorite toys for indoor-only cats) is your cat's way of showing affection. Cats are instinctive hunters and highly social and, in the wild, they would share their bounty with their family members. Even if their gifts may be startling, it means they view you as part of their family.

Cuddling and Closeness

If your cat wants to be near you – or on you! – you can take that as a clear indicator of their affection. However, if your cat isn’t a “Velcro kitty”, that's not a sign that they don’t love you! In the wild, adult cats will lay nearby one another but rarely cuddle like kittens. If your cat likes to be on the rug while you’re on the couch, or in their tree while you’re at their desk, they’re showing you they want to be around you in their own way.

Grooming

When cats groom each other, it's a social bonding activity. If your cat licks you, they're extending that same camaraderie to you. In the same vein, if your cat gives you a gentle nibble, it is typically them giving a “love bite” and showing you a playful sign of their love.

Responding to You

Contrary to popular belief, cats do recognize their owners' voices and, over time, more common words like “dinner” or “play”. Pay attention to how your cat reacts when you speak to them, or if they are attuned to your moods. Offering comfort or a response in kind is their way of acknowledging your presence.

Do cats know you love them?

“If the affection is appropriately displayed, yes,” says Dr. Hummel. Things that are signs of affection for humans — like eye contact, smiling, and hugs or kisses — can be overwhelming or perceived as aggression by animals as sensitive as cats. Understanding their body language, and how your cat shows affection, can help you return it in ways they understand better and bond more closely.

How can I bond with my cat?

The best way to bond with your cat, says Dr. Hummel, is to spend time with them! “Cats are generally considered independent but that doesn’t mean that they don't need time and attention to lead their best lives,” he added. Cats like routine, so if you’re home at regular intervals that can help your cat learn when they have a chance to interact with you. 
 


What you do in your time together is also a major factor. Dr. Gold went further to emphasize that “what they like depends on the cat” so it’s important to learn your cat’s particular love language to show them the most affection. In our experience, most cats will enjoy the following in some capacity, though you may need to adjust based on their personality.

• Interactive play. Every cat needs to get active, whether that’s playing with a toy inside, enjoying time outdoors on a leash or in a catio, or even clicker training. Even if you’re not wiggling the wand toy for them, being in the same room while they play means they’ll see it as shared fun. 

• Grooming. As mentioned earlier, cats show affection to one another (and maybe even to you!) by grooming. Some cats love a gentle brush, and other cats might get the same enjoyment from some light scratches on their neck or chin.

• Respect boundaries. Just because your cat is showing you their belly doesn’t mean they want you to touch it, and if you do so it could undermine your good intentions. Same goes for forcing cuddles, playtime, or anything else, so keep an eye on that body language! “Studying your cat's signals to know when they are enjoying something is key,” says Dr. Gold. 

• Create a safe environment. Providing cat trees, comfy beds, and other comfy places for your cat can give them the space they need to interact with you on their own terms.

• Cultivate calm energy. Dr. Hummel emphasized that cats are sensitive to energy and may bond more easily with people who are “calm, relaxed, and gentle,” rather than rowdy or rambunctious.

Are cats loyal to humans? Can they have a favorite?

Cats may not pull you out of a well, but they are certainly capable of forming deep, long-lasting bonds with their human companions. If you are loyal and caring to your cat, they are much more likely to return the same behavior back to you through thick and thin.

As far as favorites go, cats “can be selective with who they like,” says Dr. Gold. A cat’s favorite person is likely to be the one who consistently provides for them, spends the most time with them, and respects their boundaries.

What if I have questions about bonding with my cat?

Talk to your team at Lovet! A healthy cat is a happy cat, and a happy cat is more likely to show affection. We’ve been providing excellent care to cats and cat parents for over 40 years. Let us get to know your feline friend and we can provide personalized advice and identify opportunities for bonding and affection between you and your cat. Find your closest location and schedule an appointment today.

Disclaimer: Not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.