Although animals may not show affection in ways that we can easily identify, there are various actions and signs that indicate your pet wants your attention and love! Both cats and dogs express affection in different ways, and once you get more familiar with your pet, you'll also start recognizing behaviors they show when they are being affectionate. For now, let's explore some common ways pets show affection and love.
1. Tail wagging
The best indicator that your dog is happy, excited, and affectionate is when they are wagging their tails. When this happens, you know that your dog is happy you are there and excited to be spending time with you. The stronger the wag, the happier and more excited the dog!
2. Purring
If a cat is purring around you, it indicates that they are calm, relaxed, happy, and feel safe around you. This is the best indicator that a cat is being loving and affectionate. The more your cat purrs, the better!
3. Jumping
Although many people don’t like dogs jumping on them, it is a loving act of true joy and enthusiasm. When a dog is jumping on you, it means they really care, want your attention, and are happy to see you. So next time, don’t feel peeved by those extra-bounces when you return home from a long day at work!
4. Head butting
When a cat is head butting (or rubbing against your body), it is a sure sign that your cat loves and cares for you. By doing this gesture, they are letting everyone know that you belong to them. Enjoy the affection and let them mark you as their territory!
5. Passive eye contact and winking
When cats and dogs are relaxed and having a good time, they will occasionally passively stare with their eyes half-closed as if they are winking. Watch out for this the next time you make eye contact with your favorite buddy. It simply means they are having a great time with you!
6. Licking
Kissing is a universal gesture of love and admiration, even among our furry friends. Although cats do not generally lick their owners, some do, and this can definitely be noted as a sign of tenderness and love. Dogs, on the other hand, do this spiritually! They love giving their owners loads of kisses and licks, especially when being extra loving and affectionate. The more your pet licks you, the more they adore you!
7. Bringing toys
This is a good indicator for both cats and dogs that they are being affectionate, playful, and that they trust you. When dogs bring you their toys, they want to play and have some quality one-on-one time with their favorite person. Although cats bringing you their toys is rarer, it is still an act of trust to let you know that they deeply care for you and are enjoying their time around you. So, make time to savor those moments!
8. Following you
Many pets follow their owners everywhere they go, even into the bathroom! But this generally means that they want to spend more time with you, and see you as a great friend that they appreciate. A pet that enjoys your company and feels comfortable will always make an effort to be around you. It’s simply their way of displaying love, trust, and loyalty!
9. Showing Belly
When your pets roll on their back and show their belly, they are showing you how much they love and trust you. Showing their belly can be one of the warmest gestures pets can give their owners because by showing one of their most vulnerable parts, they are letting you know exactly how much you mean to them. So, keep giving those belly rubs and let them make you feel like their hero!
10. Leaning or sleeping beside you
Pets love to lean against and sleep next to their owners. When they cuddle with you, it not only strengthens the bond between you and your pet, but it’s also a sure sign that they feel safe and confident around you. They love the warmth that you transmit and want to transmit the same affection back to you. Cuddling together is one of the greatest demonstrations of love and tenderness that pets can offer their owners!
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