7 Cat behaviours explained: What your feline friend is trying to tell you

2. Head-butting: Head-butting, or bumping their head against you, is a common sign of affection from cats. This gentle gesture indicates that your cat feels close to you and is inviting more interaction.

Whether it’s a nudge to your face, hand, or another part of your body, this behaviour is a way for your cat to express their love and desire for more social engagement.

3. Purring: While purring is commonly associated with contentment, it serves multiple purposes for cats. Purring begins from birth, allowing kittens to communicate with their mother and siblings.

Beyond expressing happiness, cats may purr when they are in pain, stressed, or unwell. The vibrations from purring have healing properties, known to aid in bone repair and wound healing. It’s also a way for cats to release endorphins, which help alleviate pain and stress.

4. Making biscuits: You might notice your cat kneading with their paws, known as ‘making biscuits.’ This action mimics the behaviour kittens use to stimulate milk production from their mothers.

Even in adulthood, kneading can be a comforting and soothing action for cats, often seen before they settle down for a nap. It’s a sign that your cat feels relaxed and content.

5. Rubbing cheeks: Cats often rub their cheeks against objects, including you. This behaviour, known as ‘bunting,’ is linked to the scent glands around their mouth, cheeks, and chin. By rubbing their cheeks, cats mark their territory with their unique scent.

This action is about claiming their space and spreading their scent to ensure that other cats recognise them. If your cat has been away or a new cat is introduced, rubbing the scent of one cat onto another can help ease the transition.

6. The slow blink: A slow blink from your cat is a sign of trust and comfort. When a cat slowly closes and opens its eyes while looking at you, it’s their way of showing they feel safe and secure.

You can reciprocate this gesture by giving your cat a slow blink in return, reinforcing the bond between you. Additionally, a cat lying belly-up indicates a high level of trust and comfort in your presence, as this is a vulnerable position for them.

7. Bringing you gifts: Cats are natural hunters, and even if they don’t need to hunt for food, their instincts remain strong. It’s not unusual for a cat to bring home a gift, such as a rodent or bird. While these gifts may not be welcome, they are a sign of your cat’s affection and their way of sharing their hunting success with you. It’s a demonstration of their care and a way of expressing their bond with you.

Understanding your cat’s behaviours helps deepen the connection you share. By recognising and interpreting these actions, you can better communicate with your feline friend and ensure they feel loved and secure.