You may be a regular horoscope reader, but one veterinarian shares that you don’t need to look to the stars to learn about your bond with your cat. Instead, you can observe your cat’s cuddling style, which can say a whole lot more about your relationship with your pet than you realize. Though, since cat’s communicate that they love you differently than people do, trying to decode your cat’s behavior can be tricky. To help you out, we enlisted a vet to share what your cat’s snuggling style says about your bond. Learning to read these cues can strengthen your cat-human relationship and reveal the way cats show affection.

“Cuddling can be a great way to bond with your cat,” shares Dr. Chyrle Bonk, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor. “It helps promote feelings of safety, calmness and trust, and it can even stimulate the release of oxytocin from the brain, which helps a cat feel content and happy and can reduce stress.”

That said, not every cat is a snuggle enthusiast. “Not every cat is into cuddling,” Dr. Bonk says. “For some, the confinement can make them feel uneasy rather than safe and secure. These cats may instead prefer a little more distance, but will still show their trust and affection by wanting to be in the same room as you or looking for pets and playtime without actually accepting snuggles.”

If you’ve ever wondered what your cat’s cuddling style says about their love for you, keep reading. You may be surprised at how much these subtle behaviors reveal about your cat’s personality and affection.

Related: 11 Signs Your Cat Imprinted on You, According to Cat Experts

What Your Cat’s Snuggling Style Reveals About Their Love for You

Cats have their own unique ways of showing affection, and as a pet parent, understanding your cat’s snuggling style can give you valuable insights into their personality and their bond with you. Whether your feline friend prefers to curl up on your lap, wedge between you and someone else, or keep their distance, each behavior is a sign your cat loves you. By paying attention to these cat behavior cues, you can strengthen your cat-human bond and better respond to your cat’s needs, making your relationship even more rewarding. Scroll on to see Dr. Bonk’s take on what your cat’s snuggling style says about your bond.

1. Cuddling on your lap

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does my cat sit on me?” it’s a sign your cat loves you and that your cat trusts you. “When a cat likes to snuggle directly on your lap, they’re inviting you to pet them,” Dr. Bonk says. “Your lap provides warmth and security and is easy access for them to knead your leg and for you to get your hands on them.”

While your feline is luxuriating in comfort, Dr. Bonk suggests returning the love by gently petting their neck and back, while avoiding the belly and base of the tail—common hands-free zones for many cats. Observing this cat behavior and respecting their cat personality helps you understand your cat better and strengthens your connection.

2. Snuggling on your feet

What’s it mean when your cat snuggles by your feet? It’s a sign your cat is being affetcionate. Though not all cats cuddle this way. “This is usually done with more independent kitties,” Dr. Bonk says. “This shows your cat wants to be near you, but not so near that you can easily get your hands on them. This doesn’t mean your human-cat bond isn’t as strong, it can just be a personal preference for some cat personalities.”

Overall, consider this form of cat affection a compliment. Then, show your furry companion some love in a way that resonates with them. “If your cat invites a few pets, do so, but they will more than likely just want to lie there without much interaction,” Dr. Bonk states.

3. Wedging between you and someone

Cats with this cat snuggle style love to wedge themselves between you and another person, literally placing themselves in the middle of attention and affection. “If you’ve ever seen multiple cats cuddle, it’s often in a pile where you can’t tell where one cat ends and another begins,” Dr. Bonk says. “If your cat is bonded equally to you and another person, they may choose to sit between you so that they can be in contact with both of you.”

So, what’s your cat’s sleeping position say about them if this is their go-to move? This cuddling style is a strong sign your cat loves you, showing trust, security and social connection. This cute cat behavior isn’t just because they are seeking warmth, they’re sending clear cat trust signals and demonstrating a desire for interaction while still honoring their independent cat personality. Observing this behavior is an important part of understanding your cat’s affection and body language.

Dr. Bonk suggests petting your cat if they’re into touch to thank them for their snuggly service. “Otherwise, allow them to bask in the security and comfort of you both,” Dr. Bonk notes.

Related: 7 Heartwarming Signs Your Cat Respects You, According to Experts

4. The quick snuggle

What your cat’s body language says about them may surprise you if they are more into fast cuddling sessions than long ones. In fact, you may wonder if your cats’ snuggling style even exists, if they only touch you for just a few moments and then walk out of the room. “Some cats can be very particular about how they receive their affection,” Dr. Bonk says. “These are the ones that may nip at you if you pet an unfavorable spot or if a petting session runs a little long. They may also choose to cuddle for a minute and then be on their way.”

Remember, short cuddles don’t mean less love—they’re just part of your cat’s unique personality. In fact, many cats simply have boundaries and their brief visits and gentle purrs are just their way of letting you know they love you. “Take what you can get from these types of cats, and just know that their affection for you isn’t measured by the time of their cuddle time,” Dr. Bonk says.

5. Giving you social distance

There are cats that act like every season is cold-and-flu season, meaning they aren’t the snuggly type. “Cats that prefer their own space are the definition of independent cats. They may love and appreciate you, but they aren’t as hands-on as others,” Dr. Bonk says. “Rather than showing their affection through contact, these cats may show they care through cat body language, like lovingly looking at you, giving you quiet purrs, or offereing up soft meows.”

Dr. Bonk emphasizes that understanding your cat’s personality is key. “Don’t push these cats into forced interactions or they may increase their distance from you instead,” Dr. Bonk warns. Recognizing these signs your cat loves you in their own way can strengthen your cat-human bond without stressing your independent feline.

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Feb 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the Cats section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.