The whole idea that dogs love their owners while cats merely tolerate them has always smelled of baloney to me. I've had cats that were so affectionate they were my best friends. While I do know some cats who merely tolerate humans, the majority of cats that I've had over the years have been incredibly loving and I don't need anyone to tell me how I know. Their snuggles, purrs, and companionship told me everything. My best friend, a cat who died two years ago, would snuggle me every time I was in pain, laying against the spot that hurt. I had a cat who would even "play" with my baby in utero. My teen's cat, also a best friend who passed recently, was one of the most vocal and affectionate creatures I've ever seen.
For those who aren't sure if their cats love them, vets say that they exhibit "affiliate behaviors" like rubbing against you, nudging you, or even grooming you. All of my cats have done at least some of these things. Have you ever had a cat nudge their head to your head? That's one of my favorite gestures. How about a cat who forms routines with you? I have one who demands to sit in my lap, but I have to cover myself with a blanket and make a circle out of my legs first. She sits and stares at me until I do, then immediately sits! My husband has one that waits to sleep with him every morning when he gets home from work and she even yells at him if she thinks he's late!
How do you know your cat loves you? Share your stories in the chat.