Quick Answers
When cats close their eyes at you, it is often a sign of trust, contentment, and affection. Slow blinking or closing eyes is like a “cat kiss” and a way for cats to say “I love you.” It shows they feel safe and comfortable in your presence. Some key things it can mean when a cat closes its eyes at you:
- Showing affection and saying “I love you”
- Feeling relaxed and trusting you
- Being happy and content
- Showing they are not threatened by you
Why Do Cats Close Their Eyes at People?
Cats close their eyes at people as a form of communication and bonding. Here are some of the main reasons cats give people “slow blinks” or close their eyes:
As a Greeting and Sign of Affection
Closing eyes or slow blinking is like a “cat kiss” and a way for cats to say “I love you.” It mimics the way cats show affection toward each other. So when your cat slowly blinks at you or closes its eyes, it is a sign it feels bonded with you and is showing you affection.
To Show They Feel Safe and Relaxed
When cats close their eyes around you, it shows they feel safe and comfortable in your presence. Cats only close their eyes when relaxed. So this gesture demonstrates the cat trusts you and does not perceive you as a threat.
To Show Happiness and Contentment
A cat closing its eyes also signals it is happy and content. A cat will only close its eyes when it is feeling peaceful and comfortable. So this shows your cat is pleased, tranquil, and feels right at home with you.
As a Sign of Submission
Closed eyes can also be a sign of submission, indicating the cat is not challenging you and means no harm. Cats do this to show they are not a threat to someone they consider dominant. So it acknowledges your leadership role in the relationship.
How to Respond When a Cat Closes Its Eyes at You
When a cat gives you a slow blink or closes its eyes, the appropriate response is to return the gesture. Here is how you should react:
- Slow blink back at the cat – Slowly close your eyes for a second or two, then open them.
- Use a soft, calm voice – Gently talk to the cat in a soothing, affectionate tone.
- Stroke the cat if it wants – If the cat seems receptive, offer some gentle strokes or pets.
- Give the cat space – Avoid crowding the cat and give space if it desires.
By mimicking the cat’s body language and keeping a calm demeanor, you are communicating affection back to the cat and reinforcing the bonding experience. This strengthens your relationship with the cat.
Why You Should Not Stare at a Cat That Closes Its Eyes
When a cat closes its eyes or gives you a long, slow blink, avoid staring directly at it. Here’s why:
- Cats see direct staring as confrontational – To a cat, a fixed gaze signals aggression, so don’t stare.
- You’ll appear threatening – Staring back can make you seem challenging and intimidating.
- It can lead to aggression – Prolonged staring can cause the cat to lash out defensively.
- You’ll miss the cat’s cue – By staring, you’ll fail to pick up on the cat’s non-verbal message of trust and bonding.
The appropriate response is to slowly blink back at the cat, not to engage in an intense staring contest. So be sure to avoid direct eye contact and reciprocate the cat’s affectionate gesture instead.
Conclusion
When a cat slowly blinks or closes its eyes at you, it is a meaningful sign of trust, tranquility, and love. By responding with slow blinks of your own, speaking softly, and showing affection if welcomed by the cat, you can deepen the bond and relationship. Avoid staring directly into the cat’s eyes, as that can break the moment and be seen as aggressive by the cat. Understanding cat eye closing and responding appropriately is a great way to connect with your feline friend on a deeper level.