Kissing is a type of affection that humans use as a way to show others we care. Kisses are special and used by people and cultures worldwide! But when it comes to cats, they might think otherwise. If you have a cat, you likely give your cat kisses on the head or cheek occasionally. Some cats don’t seem to mind; if your cat is anything like mine, he hates it. So, it makes you wonder, do cats understand kisses? We know some cats don’t seem to mind them, while others seem annoyed. So, let’s take a closer look at this human affection we bestow upon our kitties.
Why doesn’t my cat like kisses?
It’s hard not to take it personally when our cat shuns us. This can happen in many ways, from your cat not wanting to sleep with you at night to your cat becoming instantly weirded out when you try to show them affection. Remember, your cat is not a human, and how they show affection is very different from how we show affection. Purrfect example: if we want to treat a person unique in life with a gift, we don’t think we should put a dead rodent on their doorstep.
Human-kitten socialization is crucial in a kitten’s first seven weeks of life. During this time, kittens learn to understand that human interaction can be positive, and it helps them better adjust to human touch and interactions. Of course, some cats out there can defy the odds, but if a kitten did not receive consistent human touch in their early life, they might be put off by it later in life. Want to kiss your cat in a language that they’ll understand? Give them a slow-blink kitty kiss instead! They just might give you one back.
Is it normal for cats to like kisses?
“Normal” and “cat” are typically not in the same sentence. However, some cats out there not only tolerate kisses from their humans but they even like them! Some cats are more inclined to tolerate human affection compared to others. And for laid-back and less skittish cats, kisses might not bother them too much. If your cat likes kisses, don’t question it too much and consider yourself lucky. For every cat out there that likes kisses, there are probably a handful more than can’t stand them—my cat included. The idea of a large, breathing head coming towards their face is not something all cats can tolerate, so if yours doesn’t seem to mind, this is an ultimate sign of trust.
Do cats understand kisses?
Your cat might not like kisses because although they will rub and bunt all over you to show affection, it could instantly weird them out when you put your face close to theirs to kiss them. Simply put, your cat doesn’t understand the human concept of a kiss and what it means. Many cats will find the proximity of a face intrusive to their personal space, and their sensitive whiskers can be bothered by the touch of lips, making them feel uncomfortable or even threatened. But this is not to say that all cats hate kisses.
Some cats may become accustomed to kisses depending on their socialization and personality. Before you think of planting a smooch on your feline friend, carefully read their body language. A kiss is fine if your cat seems relaxed and at ease. If your cat’s ears are back and their tail is thumping, it’s best not to test your luck. You might end up with a cat’s claw paw on your face.
