Why Does My Cat Headbutt Me?

“Why does my cat headbutt me?” is a question many a pet owner has wondered. Kitty headbutts often come at the most inconvenient moments, like when we’re curled up with a book on the sofa, or trying to watch something on TV. Of course, once you learn the sweet reason why cats give headbutts, you’ll never be annoyed by this cat behavior again.

Cat bunting, as this behavior is actually called, is normal kitty etiquette and is a bonding and social experience for felines. Kitties like to rub their heads and cheeks along furniture and their favorite humans, because it allows them to deposit their scent. Not only is cat bunting an example of a kitty marking you as theirs, but it is also used to show respect. 

Kitties also butt heads with their fur siblings — but there’s no reason to worry. This behavior creates a group scent, marking each cat as part of the pack. Cat bunting requires a lot of trust between felines, so your kitties are truly best buds if you notice them rubbing heads. 

Of course, your cat doesn’t love you less if he or she doesn’t headbutt you frequently. Each cat is different, and your fur baby has plenty of other ways to show affection. 

But don’t mistake headbutts for head pressing. The latter is characterized by a cat pushing his or her head against furniture or the wall repeatedly, and is often accompanied by odd vocalizations and abnormal behaviors, like disorientation. Head pressing is the symptom of a neurological condition in cats and requires vet attention as soon as possible. 

So, the next time your kitty comes crawling into your lap for a sweet nuzzle, just give her head a little boop and feel blessed that your cat loves you (almost as much as food).