Humans are thought to have kept cats as pets for over 10,000 years, with the first domesticated felines evolving from African wildcats.
Since then they have become the world’s second most popular pet, just behind dogs when it comes to the animals we most like to welcome in to our homes and our hearts.
In the UK alone there are more than 10 million feline friends in households.
And there are a huge range of types of cat to choose from - according to The International Cat Association there are 73 ‘standardised breeds’, along with a bewildering number of crosses.
While cats have a reputation of being more independent than their canine colleagues, they can still be as loving as any dog.
To help you decode the sometimes subtle signs, Tesco Insurance in collaboration with Vetfone have shared the purr-fect ways to tell if your cat loves you
Here are 12 of the ways in which cats show their love for their owners.
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1. Tail language
Cats use their tail positions to communicate their mood. A happy cat that is greeting you as a member of their family will hold their tail high and sometimes curved in a question mark pose. This is their way of saying “Hi, I’m friendly and happy.” | Canva/Getty Images
2. Kneading
Often referred to as making bread or biscuits, kneading is a sign that you make your cat feel safe. The happier your cat is, the firmer they knead so having a soft blanket between your skin and their claws to protect yourself can be a good idea if your cat is particularly loving. Experts have theorised that the action, performed by kittens to help stimulate milk flow from their mothers, is continued into adulthood as it reminds them of feeling safe and warm. | Canva/Getty Images
3. Showing you their bellies
Cats are both predators and prey, so when a cat rolls onto their back to expose their belly, they’re putting themselves in a vulnerable position. This gesture is a sign of trust—they’re letting you know they feel safe and comfortable with you. This is a very common sign as Tesco Insurance’s research found that more than two-fifths (42%) of cat owners say their furry friend shows them their belly. However, while it may be tempting, most cats don't enjoy having their belly rubbed, and they often misinterpret it as threatening. Unless you’re sure your cat is one of the rare ones that enjoys it, avoid stroking their belly, as it could be seen as a betrayal of trust. | Canva/Getty Images
4. Showing you their bottom
Similar to when they show us their bellies, presenting their bottom is another way cats display vulnerability. Cats that love and trust us will often bring their backside close to our face. Though it’s not the most enjoyable sign of endearment, your cat is essentially saying, “I trust you, let’s be friends.” | Canva/Getty Images