How Do Cats See Us?

Your cat purrs, rubs against you, and maybe even brings you "gifts" (often unwanted ones!). But have you ever wondered—how does your cat actually see you? Do they recognise you as a human, or do they think you're just a giant, weird-looking cat who happens to open the food container?

Unlike dogs, who form clear social hierarchies with humans, cats have a more mysterious way of viewing their two-legged companions. Let's dive into the science of feline perception and find out how your cat truly sees you.

Do Cats Recognize Humans as a Different Species?

Research suggests that cats do not necessarily recognize humans as "other." Unlike dogs, who change their behavior significantly when interacting with humans vs. other dogs, cats largely treat their owners the same way they treat other cats.

Why Does Your Cat Treat You Like a Cat?

If your cat kneads you, rubs against you, or even headbutts you, those are classic signs of feline-to-feline social behavior. These are the same ways they interact with their mothers and other friendly cats.

• Headbutting (Bunting): This is how cats show affection to one another—and to their humans.
• Slow Blinking: Cats slow-blink at humans as a sign of trust, much like they do with other cats.
• Grooming You (Licking): Grooming is a major sign of social bonding among felines, meaning your cat may see you as part of their inner circle.
• Bringing "Gifts": A behavior seen in mother cats bringing prey to their kittens, some experts believe this means your cat may see you as their (slightly incompetent) kitten.

Do Cats Meow Only at Humans?

Unlike dogs, who bark at both humans and other dogs, adult cats almost exclusively meow at humans. In the wild, cats do not use meowing as a primary form of communication with each other—so why do they do it with us?

Do Cats See Us as Caretakers?

Unlike dogs, who often see their humans as leaders, cats seem to view us as equals—or even as their caregivers. They rely on humans for food, safety, and social interaction, but unlike dogs, they do so in a way that mimics their relationships with other felines rather than a hierarchical pack structure.

• Trust Signals: A cat that exposes its belly or sleeps near you sees you as safe.
• Following You Around: Cats who follow their owners from room to room are displaying kitten-like attachment behavior.
• Grooming You: Licking or nuzzling you is a sign they see you as part of their social group.

Do Cats Think We’re Giant, Clumsy Cats?

So, do cats think we’re just bigger versions of them? The evidence suggests that they may not make a huge distinction. Unlike dogs, who actively recognize species differences, cats treat humans in the same ways they interact with their own kind.

So, while your cat may not necessarily think you’re just a "bigger cat," they also don’t quite see you as a completely different species either. To them, you’re an essential part of their world—whether that’s as a fellow cat, a caretaker, or just the one who refills their food bowl.