When a cat shows you their belly, the cat is relaxed, comfortable, and doesn't feel threatened. They feel safe enough to expose their vulnerable areas without worrying about being attacked. They are pretty much telling you, “I trust you with my life.” It's a great honour!
Attention-getting behavior
If you notice your cat showing their belly when they first see you — after school or work, for example — it's probably a sign that they're happy to see you and want some attention. Think of it as excitement and a sign of love.
It means that your cat wants attention and trusts you enough to touch her belly. Remember your cat's belly is the most vulnerable spot on her body. If she allows you to pet her in this area, then she trusts you completely. When dogs roll over on their backs, it can be portrayed as a sign of submission.
You've Hit the Spot
Although elevator butt may seem rather insulting to us, it's actually the cat's very positive response to the fact that you've hit just the right spot when petting her. Typically, that spot is at the base of her tail.
Your cat rubs their face on you
If you notice that your feline friend likes to headbutt you or rub their head against you, this is a sign that you're familiar to them and they're showing you their respect.
The bathroom is full of the smells of you: your cat's favorite human! You spend time there doing important things, or at least it may seem that way to your cat. Your cat may be intrigued by watching you do all the little things humans do in there.
Cats also bite when playing with their owners, along with pouncing and grabbing, according to Purina. This behavior is entirely normal. Your cat is playfully using its innate hunting instincts. You can discourage this by rewarding them with affection or treats for playing nicely and gently.
So, why do cats roll on their backs when they see you? Cats can roll on their back to greet you. It's a sign of deep trust, and they'll only do it when they feel safe. Some cats will also roll on their back to be petted, and for attention like play and food.
Cats have very sensitive tummies, and the area can be ticklish. Additionally, a cat's belly is a vulnerable spot. If your cat lets you rub his belly, he's showing you that he trusts you. Some cats are just fine with belly rubs, and they may even roll over next to you and ask for them.
Think of it as kitty zen mode. If a cat rolls over in front of you, it's a good sign. This is your cat's way of saying, "I trust you." Exposing the belly and/or sensitive parts is a very vulnerable moment for your cat, which is an opportunity for both of you to bond.
Rather, cats view us as social companions and a “valuable resource” — i.e. as a provider of food. Your own cat might love you, but an “unsocialized or feral cat would be more likely to see unfamiliar humans as a potential predator or another form of significant threat, rather than as another cat,” Grigg says.
Although there are a few medical conditions that can cause your cat to squint, most of the time your cat is probably telling you that they feel safe, content, and want to share a little love. Next time they squint at you, try squinting back to let them know that the feeling is mutual!
In addition to being petted, do cats like to be held? Sometimes. Most cats love to snuggle, and they're typically responsive to being held if you introduce them to it gradually. The best way to approach your cat for a hug is to start with a few soft pets, then carefully pick them up.
Turns out, it depends on the cat. Some cats are socialized as kittens to be held and kissed, while others haven't had that exposure and might be put off by a kiss as an expression of love. So, some cats like it and some cats don't—but there are ways of detecting the category into which your feline friend falls.
When you do hold your cat, make sure you're supporting its weight. Don't hold it under its front legs or scruff its neck.
Cats head bump each other and others to create a communal smell because cats recognize each other by smell before anything else. What your cat is really trying to tell you is, “Hey, I want you to smell a little more like me but don't worry I still love you!” How is this done?
Cats release friendly pheromones from glands in their cheeks and chin, so when your favorite feline is rubbing its face on you, it usually means they are marking you as a friend. “It's an affectionate gesture that can also be used as a form of greeting,” Dr. Jill E.
When cats stretch, they're saying they feel comfortable and relaxed. If a cat stretches in front of you, it means you make him feel content! Have you ever heard of a “catnap”? It's what we call a short nap.
Toys that can be chased, swatted, and batted should be provided. Species appropriate punishment such as “hissing” or the use of punishment devices such as a water sprayer, can of compressed air, or hand held alarm are better than using any physical techniques since they are less likely to lead to fear and retaliation.
Many cats who were taken away from their mother and bottle-fed or weaned too early will suck on their human companions or on fabrics. It's a comfort behavior, typically accompanied with purring, and is usually done when cats feel safe, secure and content.
They love you and want to show their affection
Another common reason why your clingy cat follows you around the house is that they are showing love and affection. While cats have gotten a bad rap being stereotyped as aloof or "evil," cat owners can quickly debunk this myth.
According to a study done by the nutrition company, Canadae, they discovered that the person who makes the most effort is the favorite. People who communicate with their cat by getting to know their cues and motives are more attractive to their cat companions.
If your cat sleeps on your bed, he may choose a position that lets him see out your bedroom door more easily. If he's curled up in a ball under your bed or in a quiet corner, then he may be hiding. Cats who sleep under the covers might love being close to you, or they might be hiding to feel safer.
But is denying cats 'the outside' also cruel? The bottom line is most cats can be totally happy living indoors – but owners need to put in the effort to provide for their environmental and behavioural needs.