He comes back to you, rubs his head against your leg, curls around your calves, or gives you a gentle head bump…

As adorable as it seems, this behavior is not random. What is your cat really trying to tell you when he rubs himself against you like this? What appears to be a simple gesture actually carries a complex and fascinating meaning.

And once you understand it, you’ll never see these feline moments the same way again…

He’s “speaking” to you with his body (and his pheromones)

When your cat rubs against furniture, walls… or you, it’s not just because he enjoys physical contact. He’s actually using his own communication system: pheromones. These chemical substances, produced by glands located on his cheeks, forehead, base of his tail, and even his paw pads, allow him to mark his territory, express his emotions, and signal, “This is mine; I feel safe here.”

By depositing his pheromones on you, he is including you in his familiar world. It’s a subtle yet powerful way of saying, “You’re part of my life.”

A true sign of affection

Yes, your cat really does love you—in his own way! Animal behaviorists interpret rubbing as a sign of familiarity and attachment. This action reflects trust and emotional connection. It’s like he’s giving you a hug… the feline way.

Despite the stereotypes, cats are not cold or distant. They express affection differently than dogs, and this gentle gesture is a meaningful expression of that bond.

He wants your attention (and he knows how to get it)

Who hasn’t seen their cat rubbing their head insistently right before mealtime? This behavior can also be a well-practiced strategy to get your attention. With head bumps, meows, and weaving between your legs, your furry companion knows exactly how to make sure you notice him.

And if you consistently respond with petting, treats, or opening a door, you’re reinforcing that behavior… which can quickly become a habit. It’s up to you to set gentle boundaries if it becomes too frequent!

A feline form of greeting

When you come home and he’s waiting by the door, greeting you with a rub, a meow, or even rolling onto the floor, this “greeting behavior” has an official name: allorubbing. It’s a social ritual among cats that they also use with their favorite humans.

According to a 2021 study, 83% of cats greet their owner after even a brief separation. It’s their sweet way of saying, “I missed you.”

Pure sensory pleasure

Sometimes, it’s simply because it feels good. Rubbing is a source of comfort and pleasure. Certain areas—like the cheeks, chin, and base of the tail—are particularly sensitive, and contact with you, especially if followed by petting, can trigger the release of feel-good hormones.

This shared moment supports your cat’s emotional balance and creates a bubble of tenderness between you both. It’s essentially a feline massage!

During pregnancy, even more cuddles

If your female cat is pregnant, you might notice she becomes more affectionate and clingy. This behavioral shift is common: she is seeking more contact and reassurance, rubbing against you or other family members more frequently.

It’s her way of creating a warm, secure environment before her kittens arrive. Every cat is unique, of course, but this surge in affection is perfectly normal.