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Cats are often seen as independent and aloof, but those who share their lives with these fascinating creatures know that cats can form deep emotional bonds with their humans.

When you’re away, your cat may not express their longing as overtly as a dog might, but they have their own subtle and endearing ways of showing that they miss you.

Let’s explore some of the heartwarming signs that your cat is thinking of you while you’re gone.

A Warm Welcome Home

One of the most obvious signs that your cat has missed you is the warm welcome you receive when you return. Whether they’re waiting by the door, meowing excitedly, or rubbing against your legs, your cat’s enthusiastic greeting is a clear sign that they’re happy to see you. This behavior shows that your cat noticed your absence and is relieved to have you back in their world.

Following You from Room to Room

After you return home, you might notice your cat sticking close to you, following you from room to room. This behavior is their way of making up for the time spent apart. By staying near you, your cat is reassuring themselves that you’re not going anywhere again anytime soon. It’s a subtle yet touching sign of how much your presence means to them.

Extra Cuddles and Affection

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If your cat suddenly becomes more affectionate after you’ve been away, it’s likely a sign that they missed your companionship. You might find your cat curling up in your lap more often, nuzzling your face, or purring louder than usual. These extra cuddles are your cat’s way of reconnecting with you and reaffirming the bond you share.

Bringing You “Gifts”

Cats have a natural instinct to hunt and bring back their catch to their loved ones. If your cat brings you a toy, a piece of string, or even a less welcome “gift” like a bug, it’s a sign that they’ve been thinking of you while you were away. This behavior is their way of sharing something important with you, reinforcing their bond with you even when you’ve been apart.

Changes in Eating Habits

Some cats may experience a change in their eating habits when their human is away. They might eat less, or in some cases, more than usual. This change can be a sign of stress or loneliness, showing that your absence has affected their routine. When you return, you might notice them eagerly returning to their normal eating habits as a way of resettling into the comfort of having you around.

Increased Vocalization

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If your usually quiet cat becomes more vocal when you return, it’s a sign that they missed you. Cats often use vocalization to communicate with their humans, and an increase in meowing, chirping, or other sounds can indicate that your cat is expressing their relief and happiness at your return. This “conversation” is their way of catching up with you after your time apart.

Scent Marking

Cats rely heavily on scent to navigate their world and feel secure. When you return after being away, your cat might engage in more scent-marking behaviors, like rubbing their face against you or your belongings. This action is their way of re-establishing their scent on you, reinforcing their territory, and reaffirming your place in their life. It’s a comforting behavior that helps them feel more connected to you.

Staying Close During Sleep

Cats often show they missed you by choosing to sleep near you when you return. Whether they curl up on your bed, next to your pillow, or even on your chest, this behavior is a clear sign of their desire to be close to you. Sleeping near you provides them with comfort and security, especially after a period of separation.

The Quiet Language of Feline Love

While cats may not jump up and down or wag their tails when you return home, their subtle signs of affection speak volumes. From the warm welcome at the door to the extra cuddles, these behaviors show that your cat has a deep emotional connection with you and truly misses you when you’re away.

• Coll, A. (2009). Understanding Cat Behavior: A Compassionate Guide to Training and Communication. TFH Publications.
• Pryor, K. (2002). Nursing Your Cat: An Owner's Guide to Feline Health Care. HarperCollins.