Cats are interesting creatures that have a unique way of showing their affection and attachment towards their owners. As a cat parent, you may have wondered whether your feline friend considers you their mother or father. In this article, we’ll explore some signs that suggest your cat sees you as their parent figure.
1. They Have Conversations With You
Have you ever noticed your cat meowing at you, seemingly trying to communicate something? While it’s true that cats meow to communicate with humans, there’s more to it than just asking for food or attention. In fact, cats have a variety of different meows, each with its own meaning.
When a cat meows at you with a soft, high-pitched tone, it’s usually a sign of affection. This is the sound that a mother cat makes when communicating with her kittens, so if your cat does this with you, it’s a clear sign that they see you as a caregiver.
2. They Bring You “Gifts”
Have you ever woken up to find a dead mouse or bird on your doorstep? While it may not seem like a pleasant surprise, it’s actually a sign of affection from your cat. In the wild, cats bring prey to their mothers as a way of showing their hunting skills and seeking approval. If your cat brings you “gifts” like this, it’s a clear indication that they see you as their parent.
3. They Knead You
Have you ever noticed your cat kneading their paws on your lap or chest? This behavior is a sign of affection and comfort, and it’s something that kittens do when nursing from their mother. If your cat kneads you, it’s a clear indication that they feel safe and secure in your presence.
4. They Follow You Everywhere
Cats are known for their independence, but if your feline friend follows you around the house, it’s a sign that they see you as their parent. Cats that see their owners as parental figures will often shadow them around the house, seeking comfort and security.
5. They Sleep With You
Finally, if your cat sleeps with you, it’s a sign that they trust you and feel safe in your presence. In the wild, cats sleep in groups for protection and warmth, and if your cat sees you as part of their “group,” they’ll want to sleep with you.
6. They Try to Lick You
Another sign that your cat considers you their mother or father is when they try to lick you. Cats use grooming as a way to bond with their kittens, and if your cat tries to groom you, it’s a clear sign that they see you as a parental figure.
While a cat’s tongue can feel rough, their grooming behavior is actually a sign of affection. When a cat licks you, they are spreading their scent on you and marking you as their own. So, if your cat tries to lick you, don’t be alarmed! It’s just their way of showing love and affection.
However, if you’re not a fan of cat saliva, you can gently redirect your cat’s grooming behavior by offering them a soft brush or petting them in areas that they enjoy being stroked. This way, you can still bond with your cat without the rough tongue!
7. They Follow You to the Bathroom
If your feline friend follows you to the bathroom, it’s a clear indication that they trust you and feel comfortable in your presence.
Cats are naturally curious creatures, and they like to investigate anything that piques their interest. When your cat follows you to the bathroom, they may be curious about the sounds and smells that are coming from that area. However, if your cat waits patiently outside the bathroom door for you to finish, it’s a sign that they’re protecting and looking out for you while your guard is down.
In conclusion, cats have a unique way of showing their affection and attachment towards their owners. If your cat displays any of these signs, it’s a clear indication that they see you as their parent figure. So, next time your feline friend meows at you or brings you a “gift,” remember that it’s their way of showing love and appreciation.
