Why does my cat Headbutt me?

Why does my cat Headbutt me?

If you’ve got a cat that loves lots of affection, you’ve probably found yourself on the receiving end of a lovely, soft… headbutt. You might have been left wondering why did your cat headbutt you? And if your cat should be doing this? We’ve got a few answers for you here at Argos Pet Insurance!

What does a cat headbutt look like?

A headbutt is also known as ‘bunting’. It is when a cat uses their head to make contact with you. Usually, they will tap their head against you and rub their cheek along whatever body part they’re near. You’ve probably seen your cat headbutt objects like walls, chairs and furniture too.

What does a cat headbutt mean?

Cats have scent glands all over their bodies. They use them to leave their mark on objects, including their humans. It is mainly used for bonding as well as socialising.

If you notice your cat headbutt you, then turn their head to their side or tuck it down, it’s likely that they’re looking for attention.

A cat headbutt is a great sign. It shows that your cat trusts you enough to be up close and personal with you.

You’ll notice a cat headbutt other cats too. This is to show respect to other cats, or to create a common colony scent with others in the household.

Is a cat headbutt to mark territory?

Many believe that this is a way of simply marking territory, but it’s more complicated than this. While cats do use scent glands to mark their territory, they also use it to create comforting familiarity or signify an area as ‘safe’.

If your cat doesn’t use a headbutt to show affection, don’t worry. Cats show they love you in a number of ways.

Article kindly provided by www.argospetinsurance.co.uk who provides pawesome pet insurance to cover your pet for the unexpected!

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29 thoughts on “Why does my cat Headbutt me?

  1. Léa says:

    While we do get headbutt at times, more likely they will want to rub noses. Once Colette trusted her human, she began doing this. Simone has done it once or twice which is remarkable as she is not that keen on human company. She is now making allowances and granting this human some time to adore her…

      • Léa says:

        Alas, Colette doesn’t like cats and Simone isn’t keen on humans (after nearly two years, she is coming around a bit). We are still searching for that little brother as Simone seems extremely maternal. I have a feeling that she is still searching for those long lost kittens before we found her? 🙂

  2. Pingback: Blog post re-share: Why does my cat Headbutt me? — Katzenworld – My Wellbeing and Learning Journey

  3. Pingback: Why does my cat Headbutt me? - Katzenworld Shop

  4. Alison Bane says:

    Thank you, Marc-Andre, for a beautiful tribute to love on Father’s Day! Love your new, glorious site, and I never miss a day.

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