Unlocking the Secret to Communicating with Your Cat Using One Simple Gesture

Have you ever wondered if your cat views you as just a source of food rather than a companion? You're not the only one with that thought. Although cats often come across as independent, recent research shows that bonding with them can be surprisingly straightforward: by slow blinking. Yes, it really works.

A 2020 study demonstrated that when humans narrow their eyes and slowly blink at their feline friends—essentially mimicking a cat’s smile—it encourages cats to become more trusting and affectionate. This isn’t just anecdotal; scientists tested the idea carefully.

Experimental evidence supports the power of slow blinking

Psychologists from the University of Sussex and University of Portsmouth designed two experiments to explore how cats and humans communicate.

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In the first study, they observed 21 cats from 14 different homes interacting with their owners slow blinking. They found that cats responded by returning the slow blink and appeared more at ease than when there was no interaction.

The follow-up experiment involved strangers attempting the slow blink combined with an extended hand to see if unfamiliar felines would engage. Once again, the cats blinked back and were more inclined to approach the offering hand.

"This research is the first to experimentally examine slow blinking as a communication tool between cats and humans," explained psychologist Karen McComb. "Anyone can try this simple technique with their own cat or even with cats they encounter outside."

The-cat-slow-blink-sequence-6acdf2adcb4330e3add31b2b7cfc6fa4.jpeg — A gradual slow blink sequence in a cat, starting from a neutral look progressing to a half-closed eye, then full closure, and finally narrowing of the eyes.

What does slow blinking mean to cats?

The exact reasoning remains unclear, but two prominent hypotheses lead the discussion:

It communicates friendliness. Since prolonged staring in the animal kingdom is often a sign of aggression, slow blinking could be a cat’s way of signaling trust and peace.
It’s a behavior shaped by domestication. House cats might have developed slow blinking as a way to connect with humans who respond positively to this gesture, reinforcing the trait over generations.

Whatever the cause, the takeaway is simple: if you want your cat to perceive you as more than just a food provider, slow blinking is an effective approach.

Cats are more perceptive than often assumed

Dispelling the myth of the detached cat, new research reveals that cats are quite attuned to their human companions.

They tend to reflect their owners’ temperaments—so a moody cat might just be mirroring you.
They know their names, even if they sometimes choose not to respond.
They are sensitive to human emotions and often provide comfort when their owners feel down.

Next time your cat gazes at you with those enigmatic eyes, try a slow blink. It might initiate a quiet dialogue that says, “I notice you, I trust you, and yes, dinner’s coming soon.”

The findings appeared in the journal Scientific Reports.