How Do British Shorthairs Show Affection?
British shorthair shows their affection in ways that probably go unrecognized by their owners because some people aren’t that sure of how a cat typically demonstrates their love. As cats express their affection in ways that are very different from people and other pets, it makes sense that cat owners can often miss these precious moments. But if you’ve ever wondered if your British shorthair loves you, then you’re most likely going to be happy to find out that they do! Although their actions can be odd and sometimes hard to understand, they’re certainly no less meaningful. Here are 8 ways your British shorthair could be showing affection.
1. Head Butting
One of the most adorable behaviors of cats is when they head butt you while rubbing against your legs. Not only is it cute to watch, but it’s a sure sign that your cat loves and cares for you. In fact, when a cat is head butting you, they are trying to leave pheromones on you to let everyone else know that you belong to them.
2. Love Bites
Although biting can normally be considered by some people with negative feelings, however, cats are a little different. For example, if your cat nibbles you playfully, then they’re really offering their affection. Of course, this is much different from a fearful or defensive bite that’s meant to hurt and cause harm, and the feelings behind it are different as well. Love nibbles are ticklish, and a funny little quirk of lovable cats.
3. Kneading
Cats begin kneading when they’re tiny kittens and are nursing. This behavior can be recognised by the act of your cat doing a little march on your legs, and it translates into having affection in their adult life. When your British shorthair kneads you, then they are being very clear that you make them feel comfortable and loved. Kneading is probably one of the more common ways that a cat will show their affection. It’s certainly no myth.
4. Purring
We’ve all heard a cat purring, but what does it mean? Well, purring is one of the loudest ways cats show their love. Although there can be times when a cat will purr when they’re uncomfortable, the occasion is rare. More often than not, your British shorthair is purring because they’re happy to be around you. The more you notice your cat purring, the better!
5. Following You
Many cat owners may find it odd that their cat follows them everywhere they go, even right into the bathroom! But this means is that your cat wants to spend a little more time with their owner. When a cat is enjoying your company and feels comfortable around you, then they’re going to follow you around the house and cling to you like glue. Your cat just wants you to know that they see you as a great companion. For those of you that are trying to get work done around the house but your cat makes it harder to do so, then they’re just telling you that they are more important than anything else you’re doing and it’s time to focus on them.
6. Bringing Gifts
Probably the most unwelcome among cat owners is the gracious gifts that are brought by their furry friends. Sometimes, a cat will show their affection by leaving a present for their owner to find. As cats are natural hunters, when they bring you freshly caught prey, they’re actually offering you a delicious meal. Of course, you don’t want to touch it with your bare hands, but keep in mind that they mean well and this behavior is really a sign that they care deeply for you.
7. Watch The tail
Some animal experts refer to a cat’s tail as being a type of emotional barometer, and as cat owners, you can try to learn to appreciate this highly visible cue. A loving cat will often wrap their tail gently around those they feel close to, or they may hold it up straight with a slight crook at the end, like a question mark. Does your cat sometimes sit beside you and wrap their tail softly around you? If so, then that’s a clear sign of contentment and connection.
8. A Kiss From The Eye
Don’t confuse your cat’s half-closed eyes with them being bored. If notice slow, deliberate blinks that’s directed at you, then take them as a visual cat kiss! This trance-like look is an outward sign of trust, relaxation, and affection. If you want to reciprocate, you can simply look at your kitty in the same way; maintain a soft gaze, blinking slowly. (This trick is even believed to work with big cats as well, so you can try to woo that tiger next time you’re at the zoo!)
How cats show their love can be a bit confusing for us humans, but as long as we try to understand at least some of their behavior, then we can learn to appreciate it.
