Experts Explain, Why Cats Rub, Against Their Owners.<br />'Newsweek' recently spoke with experts to find <br />out why cats rub against their owners.<br />According to the International Cat Association <br />(TICA), this action is called "bunting" <br />and is often a way to express affection.<br />Headbutting is one method, amongst many, cats exhibit to communicate and show affection and admiration to us humans, Vicki Jo Harrison, The International Cat Association<br />(TICA) president, via 'Newsweek'.<br />Rubbing behavior is usually a sign of marking territory, acceptance, or greetings and adoration.<br />The TICA president suggests that a cat rubbing its head <br />or body against you is just a form of greeting <br />and a way for them to say they are happy to see you.<br />You may notice this more when you've been <br />gone for a longer time and return home, Vicki Jo Harrison, The International Cat Association<br />(TICA) president, via 'Newsweek'.<br />According to 'Newsweek,' cats <br />are possessive animals that like to claim <br />humans as part of their territory.<br />Cats use glands in their cheeks and chin to release <br />friendly pheromones that usually mean <br />they are marking you as a friend.<br />Rubbing and head butting is their way to mark you again with their scent. This allows your cat to reclaim their territory, and increase their endorphins, which gives them a sense of calm, happiness and safety, Vicki Jo Harrison, The International Cat Association<br />(TICA) president, via 'Newsweek'.<br />Rubbing and head butting is their way to mark you again with their scent. This allows your cat to reclaim their territory, and increase their endorphins, which gives them a sense of calm, happiness and safety, Vicki Jo Harrison, The International Cat Association<br />(TICA) president, via 'Newsweek'.<br />Cats can also use headbutting and rubbing <br />as a way to indicate something they need. .<br />For example, if your cat rubs against the <br />cabinet that contains their food, they are<br />likely trying to alert you that they are hungry <br />or need fresh water or as a reminder<br />to clean out their litter box, Vicki Jo Harrison, The International Cat Association<br />(TICA) president, via 'Newsweek'
