Cats might have a reputation for being independent, but when they choose their favourite person, the bond runs surprisingly deep. They show affection in quiet, often subtle ways, a gentle head bump, a slow blink, or simply choosing to nap near you.
These gestures might not seem dramatic, but to a cat, they’re clear signs of trust and attachment. Of course, not every feline relationship is perfectly balanced.
Some cats make it obvious who they adore, and who they merely tolerate. Understanding the difference can help strengthen your connection and ensure your cat feels comfortable, respected, and loved.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Every cat has its own personality, and affection can vary by breed, upbringing, and environment.
1. Slow Blinking Directly At You
Your cat gazes at you and closes their eyes slowly, almost like they’re sending a secret message. This behaviour is often called a cat kiss, and it means your feline feels completely safe around you. Cats only show this level of vulnerability to people they deeply trust.
When your cat slow blinks, try doing it back to strengthen your connection. This simple exchange can make your bond even stronger. If your cat does this often, you’re definitely high on their list of favourite humans.
2. Following You From Room To Room
Does your cat shadow your every move throughout the house? This clingy behaviour shows they genuinely enjoy your company and want to be near you constantly. Cats are naturally independent creatures, so choosing to stick by your side speaks volumes about their feelings.
Your feline friend might sit outside the bathroom door or curl up nearby while you work. They’re not being nosy; they simply prefer your presence to being alone. This loyal behaviour proves you’ve become their safe space and trusted companion.
3. Bringing You Gifts Or Toys
Finding a toy mouse on your pillow or a leaf by your feet might seem odd, but it’s actually a huge compliment. Cats bring gifts to people they care about, mimicking the hunting behaviour they’d show to family members. Your cat sees you as part of their inner circle.
Even indoor cats display this instinct by bringing their favourite toys to you. They might drop items at your feet and meow, wanting to share their prized possessions. Accept these offerings graciously because they represent genuine feline affection and trust.
4. Kneading Or Making Biscuits On You
When your cat pushes their paws rhythmically against your lap or stomach, they’re doing something called kneading. Kittens knead their mothers while nursing, so adult cats only do this around people who make them feel content and loved. The behaviour connects back to their earliest feelings of comfort and security.
Some cats purr loudly while kneading, which doubles the affection signals. Sure, those claws might hurt a bit, but try not to push them away. This ancient instinct proves you’ve become their source of happiness and relaxation.
5. Sleeping On Or Next To You
Cats spend roughly 15 hours sleeping each day, making them vulnerable during rest time. Choosing to sleep on your bed, lap, or even directly on your chest shows incredible trust. Your cat believes you’ll protect them while they’re at their most defenceless.
Some cats prefer sleeping against your legs or curled up by your side. The specific spot doesn’t matter as much as the decision to sleep near you. This behaviour indicates you’ve become their safe haven, someone they rely on for both comfort and security.
6. Head Butting And Rubbing Against You
When your cat bonks their head against your hand, leg, or face, they’re marking you with scent glands located around their cheeks and forehead. This behaviour claims you as part of their territory and family. Cats only scent mark people and things they value highly.
Head butts often come with purring and rubbing their entire body against you. Your cat is essentially saying you belong to them and they feel happy in your presence. Return the gesture by gently petting their head to reinforce your mutual bond.
7. Running Away When You Approach
Does your cat bolt the moment you enter a room or try to get closer? This avoidance behaviour suggests they don’t feel comfortable around you yet. Cats naturally run from perceived threats, so consistently fleeing indicates a lack of trust or previous negative experiences.
Building trust takes patience and respect for their boundaries. Avoid chasing or cornering your cat, as this reinforces their fear. Instead, let them approach you on their own terms. Offer treats from a distance and speak softly to help them feel more secure over time.
8. Never Seeking You Out For Attention
If your cat consistently ignores you and never initiates contact, they probably haven’t chosen you as their favourite person. Cats actively seek attention from people they like through meowing, rubbing, or simply sitting nearby. The absence of these behaviours speaks clearly about their preferences.
Maybe another family member gets all the cuddles while you get the cold shoulder. Cats definitely play favourites based on who feeds them, plays with them, or respects their space. You can improve your relationship by being the one who provides meals and engaging them with interactive toys regularly.
9. Hissing Or Swatting When You Get Close
Aggressive reactions like hissing, swatting, or flattened ears clearly indicate your cat feels threatened by your presence. These defensive behaviours mean they haven’t developed trust and may associate you with stress or discomfort. Cats reserve these reactions for situations where they feel genuinely unsafe.
Forcing interaction will only make things worse and damage your relationship further. Give your cat plenty of space and time to adjust. Consider consulting a veterinarian to rule out pain or medical issues that might cause irritability. Slow, gentle approaches work better than pushing for affection.
10. Hiding Whenever You’re Around
A cat that constantly hides under beds, in closets, or behind furniture when you’re home clearly doesn’t feel safe around you. Hiding represents a coping mechanism for stress and fear. Your presence might be overwhelming or associated with something unpleasant in their mind.
This behaviour often happens with new cats adjusting to their environment or those who’ve had negative experiences. Create safe spaces with hiding spots, but also leave treats and toys nearby to encourage gradual exploration. Patience and consistency can eventually help your cat feel more comfortable and less inclined to disappear.
11. Preferring Everyone Else Over You
Your cat jumps into everyone’s lap except yours, and visitors get more attention than you ever do. This obvious preference stings but clearly shows where you rank in their social hierarchy. Cats form attachments based on positive associations, so someone else has likely built a stronger connection.
Maybe you’re the one who gives baths or administers medication, creating negative associations. Try becoming the treat dispenser or primary playtime provider to shift their perception. Consistent positive interactions can gradually change your cat’s feelings, though some felines remain stubbornly devoted to their chosen person regardless.
