What is what does it mean when cats rub against you?

Cats rubbing against you is a common behavior with several meanings:

• Scent Marking: Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, forehead, flanks, and tail. When they rub against you, they're transferring their scent, essentially marking you as belonging to their territory or social group. This is similar to how they mark furniture. More info about it can be found at Scent Marking.

• Affection and Bonding: Rubbing can also be a sign of affection and bonding. Cats often rub against people they feel comfortable and safe with. This can be seen as a feline hug or a way to show they like you. See Affection and Bonding for more information.

• Seeking Attention: Sometimes, a cat rubs against you because they want something, such as food, attention, or play. It's a way to get your attention and communicate their needs.

• Comfort and Security: The act of rubbing can be comforting for the cat. It can release endorphins and help them feel more secure, especially if they're feeling anxious or stressed. Read more about this at Comfort and Security.

The specific reason can depend on the context and the cat's personality. Pay attention to other body language cues, such as purring, kneading, and tail position, to get a better understanding of what your cat is trying to communicate.