Even the Most Devoted Cat Owners Wonder at Some Point Whether Their Cat Really Loves Them

Dog people like to smugly point out dogs’ long history as humankind’s best friend. But research shows cats’ reputation as a cold and aloof pet is undeserved. Because of their evolutionary ancestry, domestic cats are, by their nature, more independent than dogs.

The wild ancestors of our cats didn’t live in social groups as canines do. However, during the process of domestication, cats developed the ability to form social relationships not just with other cats, but also with people. While they may not rely upon people to feel safe as dogs do, many cats show affection towards their guardians and seem to highly value the company of their human companions.

Their attachment to humans is partly influenced by their experiences of being handled by people as a kitten. Cats behave towards humans in the same way that they respond to their feline friends, so the secret of whether your cat feels bonded to you lies in their behaviour. The ability to communicate with other cats over long distances and when no longer physically present was an advantage to their wild ancestors.

Our pet cats have retained this “supersense” and rely heavily on this form of communication. In particular, cats use scent to identify members of their social group or family, by sharing a group scent profile. Cats have scent glands on their flanks, head and around their ears, and often rub their heads against people and objects that are familiar and comforting.

Does your cat rub its head or side against your legs? The soft sensation you feel against your calves is actually your cat identifying you as a friend and is a huge compliment. One of the most obvious signs that your beloved pet is fond of you, is the way that your cat greets you.

When cats greet members of their social group they show signals to indicate friendship and a desire to move closer. Cats also show these signals to humans.