We know cats are not dogs, so they aren’t likely to greet us at the door upon arrival with a big, sloppy kiss. I have a dog constantly trying to get French on me, and I’m not keen to share a wet kiss with a Chihuahua. When it comes to my cats, I often kiss them on the forehead and tell them I love them. But have you ever stopped to wonder, do cats like kisses?
I wonder if cats amuse us and allow it…or do they like the affection we bestow upon them with our puckered lips?
Let’s take a closer look and dive into some fun behavioral science to see if cats like kisses…
The first point to consider is that cats are individuals
We obviously know that some cats are more affectionate than others. And it goes without saying that because of this, some cats are more inclined to respond to your advances for affection with them. But regardless of a cat’s temperament, all cats prefer things strictly on their terms.
That said, choose wisely when giving your kitty a smooch. Try doing this when they’ve come up to be pet or want to lie with you. Cats are not fans of sudden movement and are always on guard. Maybe try kissing your kitty when they’re ready to snuggle with you.
Your cat doesn’t technically understand what a human kiss is
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your feline friend might not understand what it means to you when you kiss them. To you, it’s an ultimate sign of affection that you do because you love them so much. In their minds, it’s likely you pushing your head against their head and rubbing against them with your mouth.
Cats communicate much differently than we do, so they will not know what exactly it means when you give them a soft little smooch. If your cat loves you, which I’m sure they do, they will tolerate this behavior and not mind so much because you do a good job taking care of them.
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So, while they might not be able to fully grasp the action of what you are doing, they understand that it makes you happy. And they are likely to purr in response because you bond and share a ritual of creating happy memories together.
Cats like kisses in their language
Did you know that cats will give other cats slow blinks? If you have two cats, and they get along, you will likely see this happen. But you know that your cat will slow blink at you, too, right? This is their way of giving you a kitty kiss! They do this because, to them, they feel relaxed and safe in your presence. If your cat is closing their eyes around you, this means that they trusts you and that you don’t pose a threat to them.
Research has even shown that slow blinking with your cat is an excellent tool for communicating with them in a language they can understand. So, try mixing in some slow blinks with them regularly. Because cats like kisses on their terms, especially in a language they can fully understand.
Want to strengthen your bond with your cat even more? Check out my tips for five easy ways to enhance your bond with your cat.
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