Your cat headbutts you to leave their scent on you and to show that they trust you. The behavior is called bunting, and it is almost always friendly, but it should not be confused with head pressing, which is a medical warning sign.
Key takeaways
- Headbutting, or bunting, is a form of scent communication between a cat and the people, pets and things they know well.
- Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, forehead and chin that release pheromones people cannot smell.
- Common reasons include bonding, marking familiar things, asking for attention and self-soothing.
- Not every cat headbutts, and that is normal.
- Pressing the head against a wall for a long time is not bunting and needs a vet right away.
What does it mean when a cat headbutts you?
A headbutt is your cat bumping their head into you and often sliding a cheek along your face, hand or leg. Veterinarians at PetMD explain that cats carry pheromone-producing glands on the cheeks, forehead and chin. When your cat bumps you, some of that scent rubs off. You cannot smell it, but to your cat you now carry a familiar, comforting marker.
VCA Animal Hospitals notes that cats living together also headbutt each other, which blends their smells into one shared group scent. When your cat does it to you, they are treating you as part of that group. It sits alongside other comfort habits, like kneading.
Why do cats headbutt their owners?
There is usually more than one reason. PetMD lists these as the main ones:
- Bonding. Your cat is connecting with a person they feel safe with.
- Marking what is familiar. Cats also rub their faces on furniture, doorways and cat trees.
- Getting your attention. A headbutt is hard to ignore, and cats learn that quickly.
- Self-soothing. Spreading their own scent can help a cat feel calm.
Is it normal if my cat never headbutts me?
Yes. PetMD points out that cats vary a lot, and that confident cats tend to headbutt more often and with more force than shy ones. A cat that never does it may simply show affection in other ways, such as purring, slow blinking or sleeping beside you. Much of it comes down to your cat’s personality.
How should you respond to a cat headbutt?
Gentle petting around the head is a good answer. Veterinarian Dr. Shannon Barrett told Rover that petting these areas stimulates the scent glands and also helps the cat relax. PetMD advises against headbutting your cat back, since most cats will not welcome a sudden bump from a person.
What is the difference between headbutting and head pressing?
They can look alike, but they mean very different things.
| Headbutting (bunting) | Head pressing | |
|---|---|---|
| How long | A quick bump and release | Held for a longer time |
| Target | People, pets, familiar objects | Walls, corners, hard surfaces |
| Mood | Relaxed and social | Not relaxed; may seem confused |
| What to do | Enjoy it | Call your vet right away |
When should you call the vet?
Call your vet right away if your cat pushes their head against a wall, corner or piece of furniture and holds it there. PetMD and Rover both describe this as a possible sign of a serious neurological problem, especially when it comes with pacing, vision changes, disorientation or seizures. Any sudden change in how your cat behaves is also worth a call. Our list of signs that your cat may be sick covers other things to watch for.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cat headbutt a sign of love?
It is a sign of trust and familiarity. Cats save this behavior for people and animals they feel comfortable with.
Why does my cat headbutt my phone or laptop?
Usually to get your attention. Your cat may also be marking an object you handle all the time.
Do cats headbutt each other?
Yes. VCA says cats in the same home do this to build a common scent, which is a good sign they get along.
Sources
- Why do cats headbutt you?, VCA Animal Hospitals
- Why Does My Cat Headbutt Me?, PetMD (Stuart Hovis, DVM)
- Cat headbutt: what head bunting means, Rover
This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian.