And why dogs and cats differ in how they show love
February brings an air of romance, with many people celebrating Valentine’s Day with loved ones.
The beauty of owning a pet is that you will never feel alone – they’re there for you every single day and love nothing more than spending time with you.
And if you’re a pet owner, you’d know the love from your pet is totally unconditional. Honestly, how great is it when you get home to be greeted by a massive wagging tail, leg rubs and lots of slobbery kisses!
So, how can you tell if your cat or dog is showing you affection? Let’s explore.
Why do cats and dogs differ when giving affection and love?
Many people say their cat is ‘snobby’, only coming over to them when it suits. Whereas dog owners rarely doubt the love they feel, with dogs making their excitement to see you so much more obvious.
So why do cats and dogs differ so much? It comes down to science and the hormone oxytocin. Both species will produce this hormone when they see you; however, dogs produce 5 times as much as cats, so naturally will seem much happier to see you.
Dogs are also pack animals and love to socialise with their humans. As a result, dogs tend to form stronger bonds with their humans and rely on us for food, comfort and affection.
On the other hand, Cats are more solitary creatures who don’t need security from an owner. If they feel hungry, they’re a hunter and will likely go and find a mouse rather than beg you for food!
Top ways cats will show you their love and affection
Rubbing against you (particularly on your legs)
Responding when you call their name
Sleeping on your bed or cuddling up next to you
Purring contently
Slowly blinking while looking at you
Rolling over for belly rubs
Jumping on your lap when you’ve settled onto the couch
Being excited when you come home and zipping around the house
Following you around
How to increase your bond with your cat
Cats can be very affectionate once they’ve warmed up to you and become comfortable in their surroundings.
If you want to increase your bond with your cat:
Encourage it to sit near you by patting the couch and calling their name. You can even try your lap.
If your cat lies down and exposes its belly for a scratch while you’re playing, this is a huge sign of trust, as not all cats love being touched in this area.
When a cat rubs against you, it’s leaving its scent on you to claim ownership. By allowing your cat to do this, you’re showing you’re relaxed in their company.
Whenever possible, keep your cat indoors as they tend to be more interactive as they don’t have the distraction of the outside world.
Top ways dogs will show you their love and affection
Snuggling up with you
Wagging their tail
Responding excitedly when you call their name
Sleeping on your bed or cuddling up next to you
Giving you slobbery kisses
Slowly blinking while looking at ou
Sharing their favourite toy with you
Placing their paw on you
Being excited when you come home and zipping around the house
Following you around
Constantly bringing you balls etc. to play with them
How to increase your bond with your dog
Dogs will naturally bond quicker with humans than a cat will. It’s more in their nature. If you’re finding it hard to bond with your dog, you can try the following:
Go out for a walk together, and while you’re out, stop for some playtime (ball or frisbee fetch) in a local park.
Grooming your dog will help you to bond as your dog will come to love the attention they’re receiving from you.
Teach your dog some new tricks. Using hand-fed treats also increases your bond as not only is your dog being stimulated by a new trick, but they’re learning how to focus on you and be gentle when taking their treat from your hand.
Have a chill-out session with your dog, where you give them lots of cuddles and pats, whether you're lying on the couch or sitting in your backyard.
Does your dog or cat have any unique ways of showing you love?
If your dog or cat has any unique ways of showing you love and affection, I’d love to hear them! A couple I know have a cat who loves to be held like a baby while he gets his stomach rubbed. That’s an affectionate cat! Please drop your stories in the comments below.
Until next time, pat your fur babies for me.