When your cat purrs around you, they’re actually communicating a complex message that combines affection and territoriality. Discover the secrets behind these feline gestures.
The Secret Language of Cats: Why They Rub Against You
What we don’t know: Contrary to appearances, this feline behavior is not limited to a simple request for caresses. It is in fact a complex communication mechanism .
The science behind it: Felines have secretory glands on several parts of their bodies (face, tail, paw pads). By rubbing, they release pheromones— a true chemical language . These signals serve to demarcate their space , share their emotional state , or affirm “we belong to the same group .” Each feline thus has its own distinctive olfactory imprint .
