Cats are actually very “aloof” and independent by nature, and sometimes even “moody,” but this is mostly towards unfamiliar people. Towards owners and family members they recognize, they are very intimate. So, what are the signs they show affection to family? Let’s take a look together.

⒈ Lying on the owner’s body and exposing their belly

Felines are naturally very alert to changes in their surroundings. That’s why you will notice cats staying vigilant even while sleeping, and they wake up at the slightest movement, immediately deciding whether to run away or fight. The belly is the softest area on a cat’s body and a key “protected spot.” Cats usually do not show their belly easily because it can give others an opportunity to attack. Therefore, if a cat freely exposes its softest part in front of you, it shows strong trust in you.

⒉ Purring while sleeping

Purring during sleep typically shows the cat feels comfortable and relaxed. If it can enter dreamland with a satisfied mood, it means the surrounding environment is very pleasant. When the owner strokes it, the cat falls asleep faster and the purring becomes louder.

⒊ Rubbing its head or circling around the owner with its tail

You may notice some cats like to walk around their owner in circles and meow, with their tails held high. This is one of the signs a cat is happy, indicating it trusts that person. The cat wants to leave its scent on the owner.

⒋ Liking to lick the places the owner touched clean

This doesn’t mean it thinks you are dirty; it is remembering the “scent” of the owner and enjoys the owner’s touch.

⒌ Actively running to the owner’s side to sleep

Many cat owners know that no matter what you are doing, the cat likes to stay around you. Curious cats even keep wide eyes and meow as if asking, ‘What are you doing?’ or ‘What is this?’ Sometimes they lie down in the areas you stay in.

⒍ Bringing“小 gifts” to the owner

Although some “gifts” may be disappointing or even amusing, they are very important to cats. They want to share their joy with someone they like. Owners should avoid discouraging their enthusiasm; the cat is just expressing affection.

⒎ Protecting the owner

If the owner faces danger and the cat puffs up its fur facing the threat, it shows the cat likes you and does not want you to be hurt. If it succeeds in “driving off” the danger, it will happily jump to your side and meow as if bragging about its accomplishment.

⒏ Cat mothers allowing the owner to hold their kittens

Cats are also very protective of their young. They get angry and may scratch strangers who try to take their kittens. But if the cat calmly watches you hold her babies, it means she trusts you completely and feels at ease with you.