Cats have a reputation for being aloof, independent creatures, but anyone who has ever truly bonded with a cat knows they are capable of deep trust and affection. Unlike dogs, who wear their emotions on their sleeves, cats are more subtle in expressing their feelings. If a cat trusts you, it will show it in unique ways—sometimes in behaviors that might not seem affectionate at first.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your feline friend truly trusts you, here are ten signs to look for:

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1. Slow Blinking – The “Cat Kiss”

ginger cat sleeping — Source: Canva by Alena Ozerova

One of the most obvious and endearing signs that a cat trusts you is the slow blink. This is often referred to as a “cat kiss” because it’s the feline equivalent of saying, “I feel safe with you.” When a cat locks eyes with you and slowly closes and reopens them, it’s a way of showing that it feels relaxed and unthreatened.

You can return the gesture by blinking slowly back at your cat. This strengthens your bond and reassures your feline friend that the trust is mutual.

2. Showing Their Belly

cat playing — Source: Canva by RosyCarpenter from Getty Images

In the animal kingdom, the belly is a vulnerable area, and most creatures will only expose it if they feel completely safe. When a cat rolls over onto its back and shows you its belly, it’s a sign of deep trust. However, this does not always mean they want belly rubs!

Many cats dislike belly rubs and might instinctively swat at you if you try to touch them there. Instead, take it as a sign that your cat feels safe around you and is comfortable enough to be in such a vulnerable position.

3. Head-Butting and Face Rubbing

man head bumping with grey and white cat — Source: Canva by Sofiia Potanina from Getty Images

When a cat head-butts you or rubs its face against yours, it’s not just an adorable gesture—it’s a sign of affection and trust. Cats have scent glands on their heads, particularly around their cheeks and forehead, and when they rub against you, they are marking you as part of their “safe zone.”

This behavior is also a way for cats to mix their scent with yours, which reinforces a sense of familiarity and belonging.

4. Kneading You with Their Paws

woman cuddling grey and white cat — Source: Canva by IvanJekic from Getty Images Signature

Kneading—when a cat rhythmically pushes its paws against you—is an instinctive behavior that originates from kittenhood. Kittens knead their mothers to stimulate milk flow, and adult cats often continue this action as a sign of comfort and trust.

If your cat kneads you, it’s a clear indication that they associate you with safety, warmth, and contentment. Some cats even purr while kneading, which is another positive sign of trust and relaxation.

5. Sleeping Near or on You

woman and cat sleeping — Source: Canva by Kateryna Kovarzh from Getty Images

Cats are at their most vulnerable when they are sleeping. If your cat chooses to sleep near you—or even better, directly on you—it means they trust you completely. This behavior shows that they feel safe in your presence and consider you a source of security.

Some cats will curl up beside you, while others will drape themselves across your lap or chest. This is their way of showing love and seeking warmth and companionship.

6. Following You Around

white cat under furniture — Source: Canva by Claudiad from Getty Images Signature

Does your cat follow you from room to room? While dogs are known for their loyalty, cats also like to shadow their favorite humans. If your cat follows you around, sits outside the bathroom while you shower, or perches near you while you work, it’s a clear sign that they enjoy your company and trust you.

Unlike dogs, who follow their owners out of a need for attention, cats do it because they genuinely feel a bond with you. It’s their subtle way of saying, “I like being around you.”

7. Bringing You “Gifts”

cat with a candle — Source: Canva by Jelena990 from Getty Images

This one might not always be pleasant—especially if your cat brings you a dead mouse or bird—but in feline language, it’s actually a high compliment. Cats are natural hunters, and when they bring you their “prey,” they are sharing their bounty with you, just as they would with their kittens.

It’s their way of taking care of you and showing that they see you as part of their family. If your cat brings you a toy instead, it’s still a gesture of trust and affection.

8. Grooming You (Licking Your Skin or Hair)

preganant woman with grey and white cat — Source: Canva by NiDerLander from Getty Images

Cats groom each other as a social bonding activity. If your cat licks your hand, arm, or even your hair, it’s a sign that they see you as part of their family. This is known as allogrooming, a behavior seen among feline friends who trust each other.

Though a cat’s tongue is rough, their grooming is a form of affection. They are essentially treating you the way they would treat a fellow cat they care about.

9. A Tail That’s Held High and Curved at the Tip

ginger cat with litter box — Source: Canva by pixelshot

A cat’s tail is a major indicator of its mood. When a cat approaches you with its tail held high, especially if the tip is slightly curled, it’s a sign of confidence and trust. This tail position indicates that your cat is happy and comfortable in your presence.

A quivering tail or one that vibrates slightly when they see you is an even bigger display of affection—it’s almost like they’re wagging their tail in excitement!

10. Vocalizing in a Soft and Pleasant Tone

cat with mouth open — Source: Canva by ZlataMarka from Getty Images

While some cats are naturally more vocal than others, a cat that trusts you will communicate in soft, pleasant tones. If your cat meows at you frequently, chirps, or trills, it’s a sign that they see you as someone safe and important.

Each cat has its own unique “voice,” and when they use it to interact with you, they are essentially trying to engage in a conversation. Some cats even develop special sounds that they use only with their favorite humans!

10 Things Your Cat Will Never Forgive

Cats have a great memory, especially when remembering bad experiences. While still up for debate, most experts believe felines can retain memories for 15 to 20 years!

This practical capability helps them in the wild and allows them to form long-term bonds, recall useful information, and (yes) even hold grudges.

In short, if you’re a first-time fur mom or dad, it’s crucial to remain on their good side, lest you incur the feline’s wrath!

So, here are 10 things your cat will never forgive and you should never do. Some of these are seemingly harmless mistakes, yet have a lasting impact on your cat’s well-being and your relationship.

10 Myths About Cats You Should Stop Believing

White ragamuffin cat waiting for food — PC: YAYImages/DepositPhotos

As a long-time cat owner, I’ve found that many of my friends often have misconceptions about cats. Unfortunately, new cat parents may encounter problems because of misinformation on the internet.

Today, we’ll discuss ten myths about cats that you should stop believing. You’ll be surprised by just how much you didn’t know about your feline companion!

10 Everyday Things That Hurt Your Cat’s Feelings

japanese bobtail black white — PC: dionoanomalia/depositphotos

Think your cat’s upset? Well, it probably is!

Cats can get annoyed, bored, freaked out, or totally zen. Believe it or not, they can also feel hurt. Yep, our feline friends are more sensitive than we realize.

So, here are 10 everyday things that hurt your cat’s feelings, so you’ll know how to avoid them.

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Amanda OBrien

Amanda created and owns The Discerning Cat. A lifelong cat lover she is the proud parent of two Siberian cats, Alexei and Vladimir. She is passionate about understanding cats and different cat breeds.