Why does my cat rub against me?
When your cat rubs against you (called "bunting"), they are depositing pheromones from glands on their face, head, and body. This marks you as "theirs" — it is a sign of trust, affection, and ownership.
Quick Answer
Why does my cat rub against me? When your cat rubs against you (called "bunting"), they are depositing pheromones from glands on their face, head, and body. This marks you as "theirs" — it is a sign of trust, affection, and ownership. A big compliment from your cat. The most common reasons include scent marking and greeting you.
Why This Happens
depositing pheromones that say "this is mine"
the feline equivalent of a hug
creating a "colony scent" (you're family)
What You Should Do
- Pet them and return the affection — it strengthens your bond
- Let them rub — it's important for their sense of security
- Notice where they rub: cheeks and head are the most affectionate
- Multiple cats rubbing you helps maintain household harmony
When to Be Concerned
- Head pressing against walls (different from rubbing — neurological emergency)
- Rubbing combined with excessive head shaking (ear issues)
- Rubbing one side of face on everything (possible dental pain)
Fun Fact
Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, forehead, chin, base of tail, and paw pads. When they rub these areas on you, they are literally claiming you as family.
Other Cat Behaviors Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my cat rub against me?▼
Is it normal for my cat to rubbing against you?▼
Should I worry about my cat rubbing against you?▼
How do I respond when my cat rubbing is against you?▼
This is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for behavioral concerns. Learn more from the ASPCA Cat Behavior Resources.