away, flattens its ears, flicks its tail sharply, or seems tense, pause and give it space. Respecting those signals helps your cat feel safe and keeps affection on its terms. For some cats, a quiet greeting or simply sitting nearby is more welcome than being petted.
The best response depends on the individual cat. Over time, noticing when and how your cat rubs against you can help you recognize its particular habits and preferences.
A small gesture with several possible messages
When your cat rubs against you, it may be
