If you’ve seen the never-ending cat memes and videos on the internet, or if you’re living with one feline at home (or two…or fifty), then you know that cats can be mean at times. Unlike dogs who think we’re the center of the universe, cats seem like those aristocrats back in the day – snobbish, requires high maintenance, and only recognizes you when they need something from you.

But did you know there’s more to this cat-themed stereotype? What if you were told that your cats have some affection for you, despite the scratches and the constant meowing at night?

Even psychology can back this life-changing realization about your cats! Read on to find out if your cat sees you beyond as a food source, and the signs you should watch out for to know that your feline friend loves you after all.

The Difference Between Dogs and Cats in Terms of Affection

First, let’s go over the idea that built our stereotype of cats as mean creatures.

The major reason why we see cats as less affectionate compared to dogs lies with their perception of us, says John Bradshaw, a cat behavior expert from the University of Bristol. Dogs see us as different creatures, so whenever they see their human masters, their behavior change. They become more giddy and excited to play with you. You won’t see them reacting the same way as they do with other dogs!

However, cats think the opposite – that we’re also cats, just bigger… and clumsier. Compared to dogs, cats don’t change their behavior when they see us. They treat and interact with us the same way they do with other cats – sometimes, they show affection (rubbing against each other’s bodies, grooming, etc.), sometimes they just don’t really care.

Is it true that cats think we’re dumb?

Despite the memes about cats thinking we’re dumb, they don’t actually think we are exactly like that. Or at least, no studies have proven this yet.

Besides, cats don’t rub their bodies on another cat that’s inferior to them, so pat yourself on the back.

In fact, cats are smarter compared to dogs, particularly when it comes to understanding us. They love to observe and interpret our behavior, so they can somehow understand how we communicate with them. For instance,  if they get the idea that meowing too loud when they’re hungry will get them more food, they’re likely to do that every time.

Photo credits: @meowed

In short, they’re not as judgmental as we perceive them to be. They know why you act and communicate the way you do, and they base their actions based on how they interpret that.

Do cats think we're dumb? 🤔🐱 Not really. In fact, they're not as judgmental as we perceive them to be. They love to analyze our actions, and they based their interactions based on their interpretation of us. 😻🐈 #cat #catfact #catlovers… Click To Tweet

How Can You Tell If Your Cat Really Loves You?

As opposed to our stereotype, cats can show affection to their humans too. Some of them even suffer separation anxiety when taken away from their owners!

DYK? Cats can suffer from separation anxiety, too. 😿When separated from their owners, they show signs of stress such as being too loud/vocal, excessive grooming and tendency to destroy things around them. #catloverd #catlife #cats… Click To Tweet

Here are 5 signs you should watch out for to know if your cat loves you, or if it’s just a one-sided love after all:

Sign #1: They’re purring loudly.

You know those cats making loud, vibrating noises while their humans rub their chin? That’s one cute way cats show their love to their owners! It means they’re relaxed and contented, so if they give that rumbling sound, it means they’re happy to be by your side.

Sign #2: They head butt you. A LOT.

Also called as bunting by professional cat lovers. If your cat keeps butting and rubbing its head on you, they’re marking you as their territory or family the same way they do with other cats they know well.

Sign #3: They show their belly to you.

If your cat does this, he/she’s showing you that he/she trusts you completely. Just be careful when giving a belly rub. Sometimes, being in this position can mean they’re ready to pounce on you anytime.

Sign #4: They narrow or blink their eyes at you.

This one’s another sign of affection from cats! It means Mr. Whiskers is communicating that he trusts and loves you so much.

Sign #5: They knead you like you’re a fluffy dough.

This is one of those behaviors that stick with cats from kitten stage to full-fledged cat stage. This habit, which they do to get milk from their mother, also means a sign of affection and bonding. It sees you as a parent figure, so it kneads on you to say “I trust you!”

It’s also their way of marking you as their territory. They’re leaving their scents to you, which is a sign that tells other cats, “This human is mine.”

Don’t worry. Your cat loves you, just not in the way you expect.

As Bradshaw would say, cats are sociable animals too. They’re not just as sociable as other types of pets, like dogs.

And like any other pets, cats require understanding and patience to better understand them. They’re smart creatures, but they also need time to understand how humans work and warm up to you. Just keep those cat foods, toys and hugs coming!

Photo credits: @fattywhale

Need more assurance that your cat loves you (and they can show affection too)? You can read our blog post about how cats communicate here, or discover more fun and mindblowing cat articles from Cats.How!