Does my cat even like me?

They sit just out of reach, looking at us haughtily. We can pet them precisely three times before the murder button is activated. An empty food dish could lead to a cold shoulder for days. All this makes us cat owners wonder, does my cat even like me? 

Next time you start to ask yourself that question, here are a few behaviors to look for.

1. Scenting. Cats have scent glands on their flanks, heads, and around their ears. Because of these glands, cats create a group scent profile with their family and friends (think social media for cats). They frequently rub their heads against people and objects they find comforting and familiar. 

When your cat rubs its head or side against your legs, that is basically them sending you a friend request. Be flattered.

2. Greeting. Unlike dogs, cats don’t usually come running, offering up slobbery kisses and excited barks when their people arrive home. Instead, they might greet you with a little chirrup or trilling sound. This is the sound cats make when saying hello to their preferred people and fur friends. 

Cats also have their own versions of high-fives. Have you ever been reading or watching tv, and your cat randomly head-butts you? That’s their way of saying, “Hey, you are alright. I like you.” This is saved for a cat’s closest feline and human friends. 

By the way, the surest sign your cat adores you is when they roll over and show you their belly. This is a sign of ultimate trust. But don’t be fooled. Unlike their canine counterparts, this is not an invitation for belly rubs. With most cats, trying to rub their belly will result in the claws coming out. Cats prefer head and neck pets; stick to those zones for your safety. 

3. Up close and personal. Cats are the ultimate defenders of personal space. If your cat lets you get close to them, especially for an extended time, you are in an exclusive club. And if they curl up on your lap for a nap? You have truly made it to the inner circle. 

Cats are less aloof than their reputation makes them out to be; they simply have their own love language. So next time you are questioning if your only role in your cat’s life is serving food and cleaning out the litterbox, look for the above signs.