Cats seem to be born with a kind of "radar" that can sensitively perceive the surrounding environment and people. Many cat owners find that their cats seem to be particularly "attracted" to certain people, always taking the initiative to get close, while being indifferent or even keeping a distance from others. There is even a popular saying that "cats like to approach people with blessings," adding a layer of mystery to this behavior of cats. So, is there really any "blessing" mysticism behind cats getting close to someone? Or is there a more scientific and practical reason behind it?

The answer is: although "blessing" sounds mystical, cats do tend to approach those who make them feel safe, comfortable, and happy. This is related to a person's character, behavior, and even the scent they emit. These factors could, to some extent, be linked to what we often call "energy" or "affinity," which some people interpret as a sign of "blessing."

The "Secret" of Cats Choosing Who to Approach

Cats are not unfeeling; they just build relationships in their own way. Unlike dogs’ enthusiastic and spontaneous friendliness, cats are more cautious and slow to warm up. They use multiple senses to evaluate whether a person is trustworthy and worth approaching.

• Gentle "Attraction": Cats are very sensitive to sound and dislike loud noises or rough movements. People who speak softly and move slowly and gently are more likely to win a cat's favor. Imagine calling its name gently rather than shouting loudly—wouldn’t the cat be more easily attracted?
• Understanding the "Cat Language": It’s essential to understand cats’ body language. Cats express emotions through tail movements, ear directions, and body postures. Being able to interpret these signals, knowing when a cat wants closeness or needs space, and responding when the cat is willing to interact makes cats feel you "understand" them and thus more willing to bond.
• Providing a Safe "Harbor": Cats highly value a sense of security. People with stable behavior and a regular routine who can provide steady food and shelter make cats feel safe. When you feed them consistently, clean their litter box, and offer a quiet, comfortable environment when needed, you invisibly become their "safe base" they rely on.
• Compatible "Fate" of Scent: Cats have a keen sense of smell. They identify familiar people and environments through scent. If you carry a scent that makes cats feel at ease—such as the smell of other cats in your home or avoiding strong-smelling perfumes—you may increase a cat’s affection toward you.
• High-Quality Interaction: Interaction is about quality, not quantity. Forced hugs or petting can make cats uncomfortable. High-quality interaction includes gentle stroking (cats like being touched on the neck, under the jaw, and cheeks) and playing with toys like teaser wands. Letting cats lead the play and responding with praise and rewards when they approach you can deepen your bond.

Ways Cats Show Affection

When cats like someone, they express it with unique "cat language." Though these signals are not as straightforward as a dog wagging its tail, they are full of love:

• Rubbing Against You: Cats rub their head, cheeks, or bodies against you to leave their scent and mark you as "one of their own," showing trust and affection.
• Slow Blinking: If a cat slowly blinks while looking at you, it is considered a "cat kiss" expressing trust and relaxation.
• Purring: Although purring can sometimes indicate discomfort, in most cases, soft purring around you means the cat feels very comfortable and content.
• Showing Belly: The belly is the most vulnerable part of a cat. If a cat shows you its belly and allows you to touch it, that is an extreme sign of trust.
• Gentle Biting or Licking: Some cats lightly bite or lick your skin, similar to mutual grooming among cats; this is a way of treating you like family.
• Following You: Cats like to follow people they trust, even just around the house. They may silently follow you or stay in the nearby room.
• Giving "Gifts": Sometimes cats bring you caught prey (like toy mice) as a way to share their "work" and express affection.

Another Interpretation of "Blessings"

While scientific research mostly explains cats’ closeness from the perspectives of animal behavior and psychology, the saying "cats like to approach people with blessings" also has some cultural and folk basis.

This idea is not baseless; it may stem from observations and understandings of animals’ sensory abilities. Some believe cats can perceive a person’s emotions and energy. People who are peaceful, kind, and full of positive energy tend to make cats feel comfortable and secure. This "good aura" might be the key to attracting cats.

From a more practical perspective, a "blessed" person often means someone with a stable life, gentle personality, patience, and compassion—qualities cats consider when choosing whom to approach. For example, a kind-hearted and helpful person is more likely to treat pets well and invest time and energy in caring for cats, thus building a deep emotional bond.

In Buddhist culture, cats are sometimes seen as spiritual animals capable of protecting scriptures and even saving their owners. Keeping cats is regarded as a virtuous act that brings blessings. Though these views have religious and cultural undertones, they reflect people’s special affection and reverence for cats.

The Key to Building a Deep Cat-Human Relationship

Whether from scientific or cultural viewpoints, winning a cat's favor does not require pursuing elusive "blessings," but starting with yourself: becoming someone who makes cats feel safe, comfortable, and trustworthy.

1. Respect the Cat’s Independence: Do not force interaction; give cats ample personal space.
2. Interact Gently and Patiently: Communicate with a soft voice and slow movements.
3. Provide a Stable Living Environment: Ensure adequate food, clean water, and a safe, comfortable home.
4. Learn to Understand Cats’ Needs: Observe body language and respond to interaction signals.
5. High-Quality Companionship: Spend time playing with your cat to build intimacy.

Through these efforts, you can not only establish a deep bond with your cat but also experience the happiness of being trusted and depended upon by a little life, which may be the greatest "blessing" cat ownership brings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can cats really sense human emotions?

Yes, studies show that cats can perceive human emotions to some extent and adjust their behavior according to people’s emotional states.

Q2: Why are some cats indifferent to people?

Cats’ indifference to humans may relate to their early socialization experiences. If cats have limited human contact as kittens or have had unpleasant experiences, they may have difficulty forming close bonds as adults. Additionally, personality and breed also affect cats’ sociability.

Q3: How to tell if a cat has accepted you as its owner?

Signs include cats actively rubbing against you, sleeping nearby, responding to your voice, and showing happiness when you come home.

Q4: Does keeping cats really bring blessings?

The idea that "keeping cats brings blessings" is more of a folk saying and cultural interpretation emphasizing kindness and virtue. Scientifically, keeping cats can bring psychological comfort and reduce stress, which can also be viewed as a form of "blessing."

Q5: Why do cats like to follow people to the bathroom?

Cats follow people to the bathroom for many reasons, such as curiosity or seeing you as part of their group, offering companionship and protection when you are "vulnerable."

Building a deep bond with cats requires patience, understanding, and love. When you sincerely give, cats will respond in their unique ways, making you feel this warm connection that crosses species boundaries.