This article was also featured in the 1999 Suite 101 event
"Not
Just on Valentine's Day"
Nearly all pets crave affectionate attention. And really, who wouldn't? Most house cats love attention and will aggressively seek your attention with mews, rubbing, and shadowing your every move. Ever wonder why cats seem to only love newspaper whenever you're reading it? And this of course applies to your favorite book, keyboard, or magazine as well. They can demand our affections.
Has your cat given you kitty kisses? Whenever I get home or sometimes when I finish a meal, the cats will sniff at my face, usually touching the nose. The cats will greet each other this way, as a type of "How have you been" handshake. They also do it to us to show affection.
Has your cat ever dropped down in front of you, roll onto its back and stre----etched out? This is another cat sign of affection. It's his way of letting you know he's secure and happy (he's showing you his most vulnerable part - his stomach). And you thought he was just being lazy!
Another sign that your cat truly loves and honors you is what I call "the presentation of the kill." Outdoor cats will drop off or bring in their literal kills. A cat that had adopted us at our last house brought us baby rabbits and mice to our doorstep and then meowed to announce her accomplishment. Not very nice in human terms, but in the feline world, quite a show of devotion. My two indoor cats also present their kills. Van consistently places his toy mouse on top of the bed, which I hate to see, but he does despite my disapproval. Belle, on the other hand, will "kill" her toy and then loudly meow to us, as if to say, "See! I killed it! I'm a good girl."
Whenever my kitties greet me at the door, one will "flop" over and the other will give her greeting "Prrrh?" until she is petted. Some cats who have been neglected or abused may hide from your desire to give a lot of attention. The best way to approach your "scaredy cat" is to do so in a quiet place, with slow movements and a gentle soft voice. Reassure him that petting is good and safe. A little treat may help too, especially when coaxing a cat out of his hiding place. But don't push him to do too much, especially at first. Just give them time, praise and safety and they may yet come around.
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