The Love Language of Pets: How Animals Show Affection
Are those licks from your labrador and cuddles from your calico signs of pet affection or just an animal’s way of saying they’re out of food? We love our pets, and we’d like to think that they love us right back, but how can we be sure? To help pet families understand how pets express love, our team at Curem Veterinary Care has put together a quick primer on the love language of pets.
The Unspoken Signs of Pet Affection
Perhaps your pet can’t whisper sweet nothings or write romantic notes, but they can—and do—express their affection in many ways. Understanding pet behavior will help you spot the signs of pet affection and lead to improved bonding with your pet. Here’s a sampling of signs in the form of pet body language that means your pet thinks you’re one terrific human:
- They Seek Your Attention Through Touch
When it comes to how pets express love, physical touch is the hands-down preferred love language of pets. When your pet initiates physical contact, either by climbing into your lap (whether they fit there or not!) or by nudging your hand to prompt some soothing ear scritches, your pet is saying that their favorite place to be is with you. And when your pup plants a kiss or your cat makes biscuits, you can rest assured their love for you runs deep.
- They Stick to You Like Velcro
Some pets simply don’t want their favorite people out of their sight. These are the pets that will appear behind us when we least expect it and those that follow us everywhere around the house—even when we want privacy. When it comes to understanding how pets express love, this tactic can be both endearing and concerning. If your pet seems overly anxious when you leave the room, separation anxiety could be to blame.
- They Enjoy Gift Giving
For some pets, nothing says lovin’ like placing a pair of slobber-covered slippers at the feet of their favorite human. This is simply your dog’s way of saying he cares, and nothing would make him happier than if you showed your appreciation in return.
- They Seek Out Affirmation
Some pets thrive on verbal praise and will do whatever they can to evoke a positive response. A cat who greets you by covering your pant legs in fur just wants you to feel loved and is seeking your appreciation in return. Let your pets know they’re adored by showering them with words of affirmation.
Understanding Pet Behavior
Learning how pet body language relates to the love language of pets will help deepen the relationship you have with your pet. Please contact us at (480) 787-0544 if it’s time for your pet’s checkup or if you have any questions about how pets express love.