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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5. Greeting you at the door
When your cat comes to welcome you home, it shows recognition and attachment. This behavior reflects excitement and affection, similar to how they would greet a trusted companion in their group. | Canva/Getty Images
6. The Slow Blink 
Cats often communicate with their facial expressions and eyes. If they feel they need to be on high alert, their eyes will be wide and focused. A cat with partially open, relaxed eyes is showing you that they feel content and safe in your presence. If your cat slowly blinks at you, it is an ultimate sign of trust and affection. Next time you see your cat looking your way with relaxed eyes, try slowly blinking at them and see how they respond!  | Canva/Getty Images
7. Grooming 
Although their tongues feel a bit peculiar, your cat grooming you is a clear sign that they consider you family. Cats are self-sufficient in terms of grooming, however bonded groups of cats will groom one another, which is known as ‘allogrooming’. This is a way for them to bond, swap scents and unify the group. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Meowing and purring 
Cats only meow in a friendly manner to humans and kittens, rather than their feline counterparts who rely more on body language and scent to communicate.   A higher pitched ‘thrill’ or ‘chirrup’ is synonymous with a friendly greeting. These noises are also used by mothers communicating with kittens. The purr is another noise that can indicate happiness, but it is important to note that cats will also purr when they are in pain or stressed, as a way to self-soothe. | Canva/Getty Images