Why Do Cats Headbutt?

Bunting is the word cat experts use for a headbutt. It means a cat pushes or rubs its head against a person, a pet or an object. Each bump leaves a trace of the cat's scent behind. So why do cats headbutt, and why do they pick you? The solution is easy and mainly reliant on smell and trust.

A cat has scent glands on its face. They sit on the cheeks, chin, forehead, around the mouth and just in front of the ears. Pheromones are emitted by these glands. Pheromones are chemical messages that animals of the same species can read.

You cannot smell them, but other cats can.

Cats often rub their heads on sofas, beds and cat trees, usually picking large, eye-catching items. Unlike spraying urine, this is not a warning to other cats. Facial marking communicates to the cat, "This is a place that is familiar. I am safe here.

If your cat bunts you, it's adding its scent to yours. Now you smell like you're a part of its group. VCA calls this a sign of trust, not just love. Cats do not bunt just anyone, so you have been accepted.

Daily Paws quotes behaviour consultant Pam Johnson-Bennett, who says bunting blends scents to build bonding. Big cats do it too. Lions rub heads with familiar members of their pride.

Cats sharing a home may bunt each other, blending their scents into one shared "colony" smell. They may then rub that group scent onto you as well. Some cats even bump a familiar dog!

TVMF explains that a pet returning from the vet can smell strange to the others, which can cause tension. Rubbing the returning pet with the scent of the others may help them settle back in.

Cat head bunting also seems to feel good. Cats often purr, roll over or half-close their eyes while doing it, so it may help them calm themselves, much like kneading. Facial pheromones are calming, which is why copies of them are sold as sprays and diffusers.

Bunts are frequently an expression of hello, particularly after a long day out. In other instances, it's a request. Your cat might want play, a chin scratch or your eyes off the phone. When bumps come hard and in repetition, it's generally "Now, please. Your cat will bunt more if you always give it attention.

Cats also bunt new people to check them out. If a cat you do not know bumps you, move slowly. Allow it to sniff your hand first and then stroke gently.

Some cats play the ball hard, some play the ball lightly, and some don't play the ball at all. Bunts occur more frequently among bold and confident cats. The most confident cat is the one who typically initiates it in a group. Purina says some breeds known for being affectionate, such as Siamese, Ragdoll, Maine Coon and Burmese, may bunt more. The personality remains the most important factor.

If your cat is shy, it can express love in other ways. Look for purring, slow blinks, kneading, grooming you or sleeping close by.

After a bunt, a soft nibble is generally a love bite, a gesture of affection or attention. A hard bite is different. It usually means that your cat has had enough and wants to take a break.

Bunting and nuzzling (a slower, softer face rub) are friendly. Head pressing is not. A cat pushes its head into a wall or corner for an extended period of time without seeming relaxed. It may come with pacing, wobbly walking, confusion or vision problems. Vets attribute it to brain and nerve issues, and occasionally liver issues, so immediately consult a vet.

As well as the sudden cessation of a keen bunter, if there are other changes in mood or energy then also book a vet check.

So, why do cats headbutt? It is scent talk. Your cat leaves its mark, creates a group smell, calms itself and seeks your attention. Every bunt means that you are trusted. Return it with a gentle scratch, and watch for the rare signs of a health problem.