Don’t worry; your cat’s not auditioning for a role in a boxing movie by challenging you to a duel or testing out some secret feline wrestling move. Headbutt is just a way of communication for cats, mostly in a good way.
Few people understand the language of ‘meows.’ Cats realized it early in their career with humans. This is why they developed several body languages and gestures to communicate with humans. From a gentle nudge for affection, an arched back to signal unease, or that infamous side-eye of disapproval, cats have perfected the art of non-verbal communication and have trained humans into dedicated interpreters.
Talking about headbutts, we understand why you must think that it is a sign of worry. Humans headbutt each other for all sorts of baffling reasons. It could either be, “I respect you, but let’s lightly bruise each other’s skulls to make it official,” or to assert dominance (or probably just because they're trying to imitate goats). (1)
Cats, however, headbutt you as a sign of affection. When they headbutt you, they are actually rubbing glands on their cheeks, forehead and chin that contain pheromones. It is a way of marking territory for them. The pheromones are not for you but for other cats to indicate that ‘you’re taken.’ It is also a way to tell you that they feel comfortable and safe with you. (1)
This behavior is not limited to humans, though. Cats headbutt other cats and even objects. The meaning of it remains the same in each case: communicate that they feel safe and comfortable with them/it and that they now belong to them. (2)
Does a Cat Headbutting Mean They Love You?
Yes, it does. Cats use headbutts with the members of their social group. It is to reinforce their bond with them. It can be with humans or other cats. So, when a cat headbutts you, they are seeing you as a part of their family and if that’s not a love language then we don’t know what is.
Why Does My Cat Headbutt Me for Kisses?
Many think that cats are aloof queens who do not really care for the attention of their humans, but that’s not quite true. Cats have their own ways of asking for attention from their favorite humans. Headbutting is one of them. They may not specifically be asking for kisses as they do not recognize the kissing gesture in the way that humans do, but they do recognize the affection and appreciate it.
Other Sign Your Cat Loves You
Your cat may not be as expressive about their love for you as a dog would be, but they do have their ways of saying ‘I love you’ to you. From that slow blink that’s basically a kitty kiss to the way they curl up on your lap like you're the most comfortable piece of furniture in the house, here are some signs that your cat loves you – (3)
Grooming you by licking you
Playfully biting you
Maintaining eye contact and slowly blinking at you
Headbutting you
Getting you gifts (which mostly will be their prey but it’s the gesture that counts)
Kneading you at your knees
Snoozing on you
Offering her behind to you (not as you’re thinking but because they have a habit of identifying other cats by their anal gland scent and now, they identify you as a member of their clan)
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Talking about the love that cats offer, they deserve care in return. Cats are prone to multiple illnesses and injuries during their lifetime. Some may be minor, but others may need extensive treatment. The treatment may also require proper diagnostics including X-rays, blood tests, etc.
You probably were aware of these facts. But did you know that with pet health insurance, you can save up to 90% of the associated treatment costs?
With a Spot accident and illness plan, you can take your cat for treatment at any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Spot plans don’t have networks, so whether you’re home or traveling within the U.S, veterinary services your cat receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of eligible services can be covered. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions, ranging from broken bones and bite wounds to behavioral conditions, and cancer. While base plans do not offer coverage for preventive care services, Spot’s Wellness Riders can be added to any base plan for an additional fee and can help cover the eligible costs of wellness exams, vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more!
Learn more about cat insurance or get a free quote!
I've had the privilege of immersing myself in the realm of pet safety. As the owner of an energetic mini golden doodle, I know just how stressful being a pet owner can be. I am dedicated to ensuring our beloved pets enjoy a life brimming with good health.
