Cats are infamous for their hot-and-cold behavior, making feline affection hard to read. If you’re questioning whether your companion really cares, here are some subtle signs of affection you might not be noticing:
 
 

1. Going belly-up: Your cat’s stomach is one of his most vulnerable spots and by lying relaxed on his back, he’s letting his guard down. This shows a high level of comfort and trust. That goes double of your pet lets you rub his stomach, though most cat owners advise against this, as a belly rub can go South at a moment’s notice.

 

2. Giving a ‘slow blink’: In the feline world, closing your eyes in the presence of another animal is the ultimate sign of trust. If your cat is giving you a leisurely blink, he’s showing you he feels safe around you. You can return this gesture to strengthen your bond with your cat, or use it to show you’re not a threat when meeting a new feline.

 

3. Butting heads: Cats have scent glands in their cheeks that they use to mark our legs, hands, faces and other familiar objects. Technically known as “bunting,” head-butting releases pheromones from these glands that cats associate with comfort and social bonding. Placing his face so close to yours is also sign of trust on your pet’s part, making head-butting a true sign of affection.

4. Gift giving: You may not treasure the mouse bladder left outside your bedroom door, but gift giving is a sign of adoration from your cat. Leaving prey or his toys for you means your cat considers you part of his family and wants to provide for you.

 

5. Midnight cuddles: Not all cats like to openly display affection and some sneaky felines will engage in late-night snuggle sessions while their owner is fast asleep. If you wake up with your pet on your chest, face or side, it’s a sure sign he feels comfortable around you.

 

6. Sharing space: Cats are not always overly warm, so even opting to share the same space as you can be a sign of affection. Each cat is different and some will show they care about their humans by sitting just out of reach, at the foot of the bed or even in the same room. Whether Kitty is choosing to spend time in your lap or on an adjacent chair, you can be sure that lounging nearby is a sign he cares.