Outdoor cats often have an air of mystery about them. Their independent nature allows them to roam freely, exploring the world on their terms. While they enjoy their independence, they also form strong bonds with those they trust.
Recognizing when an outdoor cat sees you as its owner can be a challenge. They don’t always follow traditional signs of attachment, but certain behaviors give them away. Understanding these subtle clues can provide insight into the special relationship you share with your feline companion.
When an outdoor cat considers you its owner, it may display affection in unexpected ways. From following you around to offering little gifts, their actions speak volumes. Pay attention to these 17 signs that show your outdoor cat has chosen you as its trusted human.
1. Regular Visits
Is your outdoor cat a frequent visitor? If this feline regularly graces your doorstep, it’s a sign they’ve adopted you. Cats choose their humans, and repeated visits mean you’re on their list. They might come around for food, affection, or simply to enjoy your company.
When a cat visits regularly, it’s acknowledging that your home is part of its territory. This connection deepens over time, with the cat becoming more comfortable and trusting. Offer a consistent routine, with food and gentle affection, to strengthen your bond.
2. Gentle Headbutts
When a cat headbutts you, it’s not just a cute gesture. This action, known as bunting, is a significant sign of trust and affection. By rubbing its head against you, the cat is marking you with its scent, effectively claiming you as part of its territory.
These gentle nudges are a warm indication that your furry friend sees you as its human. Engage in this affectionate interaction by gently petting the cat, reinforcing the bond, and showing that you care.
3. Bringing “Gifts”
Cats are natural hunters, and if your outdoor feline brings you “gifts” like mice or birds, it’s a sign of affection. This behavior is rooted in their instinct to share food with those they care about.
While it might be unpleasant to receive such gifts, it’s a cat’s way of showing you’re part of its family. Acknowledge this gesture by thanking the cat and discreetly removing the offering. Providing plenty of playtime and toys can help channel their hunting instincts positively.
4. Purring While Near You
A cat’s purr is a soothing sound and a strong indicator of contentment. If your outdoor cat purrs while close to you, it’s showing that it feels secure and happy in your presence.
Purring is more than just a sound; it’s a communication method. By purring near you, the cat is expressing trust and affection. Encourage this by providing a warm and safe environment, ensuring the cat continues to feel comfortable and loved.
5. Following You Around
Ever notice a feline shadow while you stroll in the garden? If your outdoor cat often tags along, it’s a clear sign of attachment. Following you around indicates the cat’s interest and trust in you, as it wants to be part of your activities.
This behavior shows that the cat considers you a significant figure in its life. Encourage this companionship by talking to the cat and allowing it to explore alongside you, strengthening your bond.
6. Rolling Over to Show Belly
When a cat rolls over to display its belly, it’s a gesture of trust. Exposing their vulnerable side means they feel safe and at ease around you.
This is a compliment, as cats only show their bellies to those they trust. Be gentle if you decide to pet their belly, as this area is sensitive. Respect the cat’s boundaries, and this interaction can strengthen your bond, making the cat feel even more secure in your presence.
7. Meowing at You
An outdoor cat that meows at you is actively engaging in communication. Meowing is a cat’s primary method of conversing with humans, showing they recognize and seek interaction.
Responding to these meows with gentle words or actions can enhance your connection. The cat is likely trying to convey needs or simply seeking attention. By tuning into these vocal cues, you’ll better understand your feline friend and strengthen your relationship.
8. Sleeping Near Your Home
Does your outdoor cat choose to sleep near your home? This is a strong sign of trust and belonging. By resting close by, the cat feels safe and considers your space as its own.
Cats sleep in secure places, and choosing your vicinity means the cat sees your area as a safe haven. Encourage this by providing a comfortable resting spot, like a soft blanket or sheltered nook, enhancing your connection and the cat’s comfort.
9. Brushing Against Your Legs
A cat that brushes against your legs is marking you with its scent, claiming you as part of its territory and showing affection. This action is a sign of the cat’s trust and deep connection with you. It’s a subtle way of saying, “You belong to me.”
This interaction is both a greeting and a bonding activity. By reciprocating with gentle words and light petting, you reinforce the connection, showing the cat it’s welcomed and appreciated in your life.
10. Eating in Your Presence
Eating is a vulnerable activity for cats, and if your outdoor cat eats in your presence, it signifies trust. By dining near you, the cat feels secure and unthreatened.
This behavior indicates that the cat is comfortable and sees you as a trusted figure. To nurture this trust, maintain a calm demeanor and provide a consistent feeding routine, ensuring the cat feels safe and cherished in your company.
11. Greets You With a Tail Up
A cat’s tail language speaks volumes. When an outdoor cat greets you with its tail held high, it signals friendliness and confidence. This gesture shows the cat’s comfort and joy in your presence.
A high tail is a cat’s way of saying hello and expressing happiness. Respond with gentle affection and a calm voice, reinforcing the positive interaction and strengthening the bond between you and your feline friend.
12. Shows Up During Mealtime
If your outdoor cat appears around mealtime, it’s more than just hunger. This behavior shows it trusts you to provide nourishment and wants to be part of your routine.
By showing up consistently at mealtime, the cat demonstrates its reliance and connection with you. Maintain regular feeding times and ensure a welcoming environment, reinforcing the bond and trust shared between you and your feline companion.
13. Braving Bad Weather to See You
Since cats typically avoid inclement weather, an outdoor cat that ventures out in the rain or cold to be near you is showing a strong attachment. Their determination to stay close, no matter the weather, highlights their deep affection. It’s a sign they genuinely enjoy your company.
Such behavior indicates a deep bond and trust. Show appreciation by providing shelter or inviting the cat inside during inclement weather, ensuring it feels safe and valued in your care.
14. Playful Biting
A gentle bite or nibble is a common way for cats to express fondness. If your outdoor cat engages in this action, it’s a sign of trust and playfulness, rather than aggression.
These gentle nibbles mean the cat feels comfortable and happy around you. Engage in this play by offering toys or gently interacting with the cat, ensuring it has a healthy outlet for its energy and affection.
15. Inviting You to Follow
Does your cat often lead you to different spots? This behavior, where it looks back to ensure you’re following, is an invitation to explore its world. Cats do this when they trust you and want to share their experiences.
By accepting this invitation, you strengthen your bond and show the cat you’re interested in its interests. Follow along and see where the journey takes you, reinforcing mutual trust and companionship.
16. Sitting on Your Lap
If your cat decides to settle on your lap, it’s a powerful sign of trust and affection. This behavior reveals their comfort around you and their wish to stay close, marking you as someone they trust deeply.
Cats choose laps that feel safe and warm. By allowing the cat to settle on your lap, you’re nurturing a deep sense of security and connection. Enjoy these moments, offering gentle petting and affection to reinforce the bond.
17. Showing Up at the Door
The sight of an outdoor cat waiting by the door is a clear indication of affection and attachment. It reveals their desire to be near you and their trust in you to create a welcoming environment.
Being present at your door signifies the cat’s interest in being part of your life. Open the door to these opportunities, offering warmth and kindness, strengthening your relationship, and creating a lasting bond with your feline friend.