Discover Why Cats Butt Heads With Humans

You’re sitting on the couch, and your cat is purring. They get up and start bumping into your face with their head. But what could that mean? Read this article to discover why cats butt heads with humans.

Why Do Cats Butt Heads With Humans?

It may seem strange that your feline is butting your head with theirs. However, in kitty lingo, they are claiming you in pheromones while attempting to connect with you the way that they know best. Head butting is also a tactic that your cat uses to get you to pay more attention to them.

Why Won’t My Cat Stop Head Butting Me?

While head taps from your kitty may seem cute, it can become annoying. If your cat won’t stop head-butting you, chances are they are trying to tell you to keep petting them. But, they may also be head-butting you to tell you they want you to scratch their heads and head more. Oftentimes, kitties enjoy having their chins and ears rubbed versus having their bodies caressed. 

Your cat may also be trying to tell you that they trust, respect, and honor you as their people. Remember, kitties see their human owner as pets. 

Why Does My Cat Nudge My Hand With His Head?

If you’re wondering why your cat is nudging or head butting your head with their hand, chances are they are trying to get your attention to pet them. If you are already petting them, they may be trying to tell you that they don’t want you to stop. 

How Do You Act to a Head Butt From Your Cats?

You may be wondering how you are supposed to react when your cat head-butts you. For one, always show them a sign of gratitude. You can do this by giving them chin or head scritches. Next, if your cat is not a big fan of being pet, you can simply say thank you or engage with them through play.

Be sure to pay close attention to their body. If they are swishing their tails and pushing their ears back, they’re telling you they’ve had enough.

How Do Cats Show Affection Besides Head Butting?

While this article is about head butting, there are other ways that your feline will show affection. They also may be combined with head butting. Other gestures of affection from your cat include:

• Purring.
• Blinking in a slow manner which is kitty lingo for “I love you.”
• Rolling over to reveal their stomach, which is a form of cat submission.
• Cuddling into your lap.
• Falling asleep on you.
• Gifting you toys, and dead animals.

When Head Butting Becomes Worrisome

Head butting, which is also referred to as, “head bunting” is mainly just a gesture of love. However, there are times when it can be a concern.

For example, if your cat is bunting their head into a wall, or hard surface, it may be time to consult your local veterinarian. When your cat rests their head against a tough surface, it is often complimented by seizing, confusion, and bizarre changes in behavior.

If your cat displays any of the above symptoms or puts their head against a wall, please get them to the vet immediately.

Is It Normal for My Cat to Bonk Other Pets?

In general, the answer is yes. Your cat thinks that butting the heads of other pets in the home signifies their adoration. However, if your other pets are not keen on kitties, they may not take positively to the affection.

Yet, if your other pets respond with licking, cuddling, or tail wagging, it’s safe to say that other species have accepted the language of feline love.

Recap: Why Do Cats Butt Heads With Humans?

You have now discovered why cat butts heads with humans. Keep in mind that it is a form of love, as long as they are not butting their heads into the wall.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/Thomas Leirikh