Is there anything more heartwarming than a cat showing you they trust you? If you’ve ever wondered whether your feline friend truly trusts you, you’re not alone. Cats are known for their independent and sometimes aloof nature, but when they let their guard down, it’s a sign of deep trust and affection. Understanding these signs can deepen your bond with your furry companion and bring you closer together.
1. Exposing Their Belly
One of the most telling signs that your cat trusts you is when they expose their belly. This vulnerable position is a cat’s way of saying, “I trust you not to hurt me.” In the wild, a cat would never expose its belly to a potential threat, as this area is where their vital organs are located. So when your cat rolls over and shows you their tummy, it’s a clear indication that they feel safe and secure in your presence. While it might be tempting to give them a belly rub, remember that not all cats enjoy this. Respect their boundaries and enjoy the moment for what it is—a sign of trust.
2. Slow Blinking
Have you ever noticed your cat giving you a slow blink? This is often referred to as a “cat kiss.” When a cat slowly blinks at you, it’s their way of showing affection and trust. In the feline world, a slow blink is a non-verbal way of saying, “I feel comfortable and safe with you.” You can return the gesture by slowly blinking back, which can help strengthen your bond. This mutual exchange of trust can be incredibly rewarding and is a testament to the special relationship you share with your cat.
3. Kneading On You
Kneading, or “making biscuits,” is a behavior that many cats display when they are feeling content. This action, which involves pushing their paws in and out against a soft surface, is a comforting behavior that cats learn as kittens while nursing. When your cat kneads on you, it’s a sign that they associate you with feelings of safety and comfort. It’s their way of saying, “I trust you to take care of me, just like my mother did.” This behavior is a beautiful reminder of the trust and affection your cat feels for you.
4. Following You Around
If your cat follows you from room to room, it’s a sign that they enjoy your company and feel secure in your presence. Cats are naturally curious creatures, but they don’t follow just anyone. When they choose to be near you, it indicates that they trust you and want to be part of your life. This behavior can be compared to a child seeking the comfort and reassurance of a parent. Embrace these moments and take them as a sign of your cat’s trust and affection.
5. Bringing You “Gifts”
While it might not always be pleasant, when a cat brings you a “gift” such as a toy or even a small animal, it’s a sign of trust and affection. In the wild, cats are natural hunters, and bringing back prey is a way to provide for their family. When your cat brings you a gift, they are showing you that they consider you part of their family. It’s their way of saying, “I care about you and want to share with you.” While it might be tempting to scold them for bringing in a mouse, remember that this is a gesture of love and trust.
6. Grooming You
Cats groom themselves to stay clean and to bond with other cats. When a cat licks you, it’s a sign of affection and trust. This behavior is reminiscent of how they would groom a sibling or a parent. It’s their way of saying, “I trust you and consider you part of my family.” When your cat grooms you, they are sharing a special bond with you, one that is built on mutual trust and affection. Embrace this behavior as it is a clear indication that your cat feels safe and secure with you.
7. Sleeping Next to You
Cats are most vulnerable when they are asleep, so if your cat chooses to sleep next to you, it’s a sign that they trust you completely. In the wild, cats would only sleep near those they trust to keep them safe from predators. When your cat curls up next to you, they are saying, “I trust you to protect me while I rest.” This behavior is a testament to the strong bond you share and is a clear indication of the trust your cat has in you.
8. Head Butting
Head butting, or “bunting,” is a behavior cats use to mark their territory with scent glands located on their head. When your cat head butts you, they are marking you as part of their territory and family. This behavior is a sign of trust and affection, as your cat is saying, “I trust you and want you to be part of my world.” It’s a gesture that signifies a deep bond and is a clear indication that your cat feels comfortable and secure with you.
9. Purring In Your Presence
Purring is often associated with a cat’s contentment and happiness. When your cat purrs in your presence, it’s a sign that they feel safe and comfortable with you. While cats can also purr when they are in pain or stressed, a cat that purrs while being petted or sitting next to you is expressing their trust and affection. This soothing sound is their way of saying, “I trust you to take care of me and make me feel safe.”
10. Allowing You to Touch Their Paws
Cats are protective of their paws, as they are essential tools for hunting and defense. If your cat allows you to touch or hold their paws, it’s a sign of trust. This behavior indicates that they feel safe with you and trust you not to harm them. Respect this gesture and handle their paws gently, as this is a clear indication that your cat feels comfortable and secure in your presence.
11. Vocalizing with You
Cats are known for their vocalizations, but when your cat talks to you, it’s a sign that they trust you and want to communicate. Each meow or chirp is a way for your cat to express their feelings and needs. When your cat engages in conversation with you, they are saying, “I trust you to understand and respond to me.” This behavior is a testament to the special bond you share and is a clear indication that your cat feels comfortable and secure with you.
12. Seeking Your Attention
When your cat actively seeks your attention, it’s a sign that they trust you and enjoy your company. Whether they are rubbing against your legs, sitting on your lap, or nuzzling your hand, these actions indicate that your cat feels safe and secure with you. This behavior is a clear indication of trust and affection, as your cat is saying, “I trust you to take care of me and make me feel loved.”
Understanding these signs of trust can help you build a stronger bond with your feline friend. Each gesture is a testament to the unique relationship you share, one built on mutual trust, affection, and respect. So, the next time your cat shows you one of these signs, cherish the moment and remember that you are truly loved and trusted by your furry companion.
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.
