February 20th is Love Your Pet Day! Of course, we love our kitties every day, but we’ll take any excuse to shower them with a little more adoration.
You’re wild about cats, and you don’t care who knows it! Your love for your cat knows no limits, and if you’re anything like me, you want to make sure that your kitty understands how much of a special place they hold in your heart.
Unfortunately, cats can’t speak our language, so sometimes just telling your cat how you feel isn’t enough. And all the new toys, treats, and fancy cat beds just don’t get the message across.
But there are a few ways you can express your love that your cat can understand. In honor of Love Your Pet Day, here are five of the best tips for making sure your kitty knows how you feel.
What are some other ways you show love to your cat? Are you doing anything extra special for your kitty on Love Your Pet Day? Let us know in the comments below!
Ways To Show Your Cat Love That They Can Understand
-
Nose-To-Tail Rubs
(Picture Credit: Artistan/Getty Images)
Your kitty has probably walked up to you and rubbed themselves from nose to tail on your leg. This isn't just because it feels good to get a nice pet, it's also their way of rubbing their scent off on you and "claiming" you as their own.
Show them you're happy to be owned by them and give them all the nose-to-tail rubs they want. If you show that you're open to being claimed by them, you'll strengthen your bond and share the love.
-
Slow Blinks And Head Bonks
(Picture Credit: Nina Pearman/Getty Images)
Cats use head bunting to show affection even in the wild. It's not just a scent marking thing; it's a way of showing respect and trust.
A cat whose head is down is a bit more vulnerable, and exposing that vulnerability to you means your kitty trusts you completely.
The same can be said of slow blinking. If a cat is willing to slowly close their eyes in front of you, they really feel comfortable.
You can return these signs of affection from your cat, too, and your cat will definitely get the message. Present your forehead for some soft bonks and blink your eyes slowly to see if your cat bonks and blinks back.
-
Take A Cat Nap
(Picture Credit: 1001slide/Getty Images)
A cat who loves and trusts you will be completely comfortable sleeping around you. They're more likely to see you as a protector if they can feel safe when they're at their most vulnerable near you.
You don't always have to share your bed with your kitty, but if you're curling up on the couch for some Netflix, curl up with your cat and catch some z's. Your feline will feel the love knowing that you both trust each other.
-
Try Some Training
(Picture Credit: Elizabeth Livermore/Getty Images)
Contrary to what some people think, cats are very trainable. In fact, they're probably bored when they go for a long time without mental stimulation. You can relieve that boredom by teaching them some new tricks.
Training will allow you to strengthen your bond and your understanding with your cat and will also allow you to reward your kitty for a job well done.
Your rewards will help your cat see you as a provider, and they'll know that they can count on you. This will help build your relationship, and before long, your cat will be feeling all the love.
-
Learn Their Language
(Picture Credit: Nga Nguyen/Getty Images)
Your kitty may be showing you their belly as a sign that they're comfortable around you, but that doesn't mean they always want a belly rub.
Get to know how your cat communicates. There are plenty of body language and vocal indicators that will help you know what your cat wants and what they're saying.
If you see signs of stress, you'll be able to help your kitty de-stress, and if you see signs of comfort, you can help your kitty keep the good vibes going.
This will encourage your cat to see you as a protector and friend, and they'll know that your love is keeping them safe and happy.
