There’s something almost magical about the moment a cat begins to trust you. If you’ve ever spent time trying to win over a cautious feline, you know just how rewarding those tiny signs of progress can feel. One day they dart under the couch at the sound of your footsteps—then, suddenly, they’re gazing up at you with those wide, curious eyes, making you wonder, “Could they really be warming up to me?” For all the cat lovers who’ve patiently awaited that breakthrough, these telltale reactions say it all: your cat is starting to trust you. Here’s how to spot these heart-melting milestones in your journey together.
Slow Blinking at You
Few gestures are as tender and intimate as the slow blink from a cat. This isn’t just a random eyelid flutter—it’s a feline way of saying, “I feel safe around you.” Cats in the wild keep their eyes wide open to spot danger, so when your cat relaxes enough to slowly close and open their eyes in your presence, it’s a massive compliment. Try returning the favor by slow-blinking back; it’s like a secret handshake just between the two of you. Over time, this mutual exchange can deepen your bond, making your cat associate you with comfort and security. If your cat gives you this dreamy-eyed look, it’s a clear sign they’re letting their guard down. The more often you catch your cat doing this, the stronger that trust is growing. So next time your cat squints at you with that gentle, sleepy gaze, know that you’re officially in their circle of trust.
Showing Their Belly
Nothing feels quite as shocking or delightful as when a cat rolls onto its back and exposes that soft, vulnerable belly. For cats, their stomach is the ultimate no-go zone, reserved only for those they truly trust. When your feline friend flops down and shows you their tummy, it’s like they’re saying, “I trust you not to hurt me.” However, be cautious—this doesn’t always mean they want belly rubs. Sometimes, it’s just a display of faith rather than an invitation to touch. Watch for relaxed body language: if their paws are loose and their eyes are soft, your cat is feeling extra safe around you. You might even notice them stretching luxuriously, completely at ease. This act is a huge vote of confidence in your relationship. Cherish these moments, as they’re among the most genuine expressions of feline trust.
Sleeping Near You
A cat’s choice of nap spot can speak volumes. If your cat starts to snooze beside you, on your lap, or even just in the same room, take it as a heartfelt sign of trust. Sleep is when cats are most defenseless, so picking a spot close to you means they see you as a protector, not a threat. Whether they curl up at your feet or sprawl out beside you on the couch, they’re letting their guard down in a big way. You might notice them purring softly as they drift off, or even stretching a paw out to touch you in their sleep. These are moments to treasure, reminding you of just how far you’ve come together. The more often your cat chooses your company for a nap, the more secure they feel with you. It’s a quiet, everyday miracle—and a true testament to your growing bond.
Following You Around
Ever feel like you have a furry little shadow? When cats start following you from room to room, it’s not just curiosity—it’s a sign they trust you. Whether you’re heading to the kitchen for a midnight snack or just moving from the living room to your bedroom, a cat that keeps pace wants to be where you are. It’s their way of saying, “I enjoy your presence and feel safe with you.” You may notice your cat sitting just outside the bathroom door, waiting patiently, or hopping onto the counter as you cook. Each step they take in your direction is another step closer in your relationship. This loyal following shows they’re eager to be part of your world, and they trust that you’ll keep them safe. If your cat is always nearby, you know you’ve made a true friend.
Head Butting and Rubbing
When your cat bumps their head against you or rubs their cheeks on your hand, it’s not just an adorable quirk—it’s a powerful sign of trust. These gestures, known as “bunting,” are how cats mark their territory with scent glands on their face. By sharing their scent with you, your cat is claiming you as part of their safe space. You might feel a gentle nudge against your leg or a soft rub on your forehead, each one a little love note from your feline companion. This behavior often means your cat feels truly at home with you. It’s their way of saying, “You belong to me, and I trust you completely.” The more often your cat initiates these head bumps, the deeper your bond is becoming. Treasure every affectionate nudge—they’re among the most genuine signs of feline devotion.
Bringing You “Gifts”
As strange as it sounds, when your cat drops a toy at your feet—or, in the case of outdoor cats, a less pleasant “gift”—they’re expressing trust and affection. In the wild, cats often share food with those they care about, and this instinct carries over into their relationships with humans. If your cat brings you a favorite toy, a scrap of paper, or even a sock, they’re saying, “I want to share this with you.” It might not always be the present you wanted, but it’s always meant with love. Accepting their gift, even with a smile, can strengthen your bond further. This gesture means your cat sees you as part of their family. The more your cat offers you these surprising tokens, the more you can be sure you’ve earned their trust.
Responding to Their Name or Voice
When your cat starts responding to their name or the sound of your voice, it’s a sign they not only recognize you but trust you enough to pay attention. At first, cats might ignore you or even hide when called. But as trust builds, you’ll notice them perking up, flicking their ears, or even trotting over when you speak. This is a clear sign they associate you with positive experiences. It’s a small but powerful moment: you call, and they come, knowing you won’t let them down. You might even notice them meowing back or chirping in response. This two-way communication is a huge step forward, showing your cat feels comfortable and safe with you. The more your cat listens and responds, the stronger your connection will become.
Grooming You or Themselves Around You
Cats are meticulous groomers, and where and when they choose to clean themselves says a lot about how they feel. If your cat starts grooming themselves in your presence, it’s a sign they feel relaxed and secure. Even more touching is when your cat tries to groom you—licking your hand, arm, or even your hair. This is a behavior typically reserved for other cats they trust deeply, like siblings or kittens. When your cat includes you in this intimate ritual, it’s a sign of unconditional trust. You might feel a rough little tongue on your skin or see your cat settle in for a long cleaning session right beside you. Each grooming gesture is a symbol of acceptance and love. The more you see your cat grooming themselves—or you—by your side, the more you know you’ve earned their heart.
Linnea is a born and bred Swede but spends as much time as possible in Cape Town, South Africa. This is mainly due to Cape Town’s extraordinary scenery, wildlife, and atmosphere (in other words, because Cape Town is heaven on earth.) That being said, Sweden’s majestic forests forever hold a special place in her heart. Linnea spends as much time as she can close to the ocean collecting sea shells or in the park admiring puppies.
