The Art of the Slow Blink: How to Strengthen Your Bond with Your Cat
Cats often get a bad rap when it comes to showing love. They can be aloof, unpredictable, and—let’s be honest—downright mischievous. But despite their often inscrutable nature, felines form deep connections with their humans. The challenge lies in understanding how they express affection and, more importantly, how we can communicate our love back to them in a way they understand. Enter the slow blink.
What Is Slow-Blinking, and Why Does It Matter?
A groundbreaking 2020 study published in Scientific Reports found that cats respond positively to slow-blinking from humans. This non-verbal cue, akin to a cat’s version of a smile, signals trust and affection. When you slowly close your eyes, pause for a second, and then gently open them again, your cat is likely to interpret this as a friendly and calming gesture. Many cats even return the slow blink, reinforcing their bond with you.
The Science Behind the Blink
Cat behaviorist Stephen Quandt, who has worked with thousands of felines, confirms the effectiveness of the slow blink. He describes instances where shelter cats, initially wary, have reciprocated his slow blinks and then approached him for pets. “Cats who slow-blink are usually calm,” Quandt explains, emphasizing that this subtle form of communication can help deepen trust between humans and their feline companions.
How to Slow-Blink Correctly
If you want to try slow-blinking with your cat, follow these simple steps:
Find a Calm Moment – Choose a time when your cat is relaxed, not during a zoomies session or mealtime.
Get on Their Level – Avoid looming over your cat. Sit or crouch nearby to appear less intimidating.
Relax Your Face – Keep your expression soft and friendly. A tense stare can be perceived as a threat.
Slowly Close Your Eyes – Gently close your eyes for 1-2 seconds, then reopen them slowly.
Observe Their Response – If your cat slow-blinks back, congratulations! You’ve successfully shared a moment of mutual trust.
Other Ways Cats Show Affection
Slow-blinking isn’t the only way cats communicate their love. Keep an eye out for these additional signs of feline affection:
Purring – A contented, rumbling purr often means your cat is happy in your presence.
Head Bunting – If your cat rubs their head against you, they’re marking you as “theirs” with scent glands on their face.
Tail Language – A gently curved or upright tail signals friendliness and comfort.
Kneading – This kitten-like behavior, often accompanied by purring, is a strong sign of trust and relaxation.
Bringing You ‘Gifts’ – Whether it’s a toy or (less pleasantly) a dead critter, your cat may be offering you a present as a sign of appreciation.
The Verdict: Does It Work?
Veterinarian Dr. Liza Cahn encourages cat owners to try slow-blinking as part of their bonding routine. She advises pairing it with a calm voice and allowing your cat to initiate contact. While not every cat will reciprocate immediately, many do, and over time, this small gesture can significantly enhance your relationship.
Even if your cat doesn’t return the slow blink right away, don’t be discouraged. Every feline has a unique personality, and some may take longer to warm up to new forms of communication. Keep trying, mix in other bonding activities like playtime and treats, and most importantly—respect their space and boundaries.
Final Thoughts
While we may never fully understand the complexities of feline communication, slow-blinking offers a simple yet effective way to express love and build trust with your cat. So the next time you catch your feline friend lounging nearby, give them a slow blink—you just might get one in return. And if not? Well, at least you tried (and they probably appreciate your effort more than they let on).
