Some cats can be quite fascinating in how they present themselves versus how they truly feel within. Certain cats, mine included, adopt a tough exterior and might even act aloof. Avoid cuddles at times and utterly ignore human presence. Sometimes I wonder, do they do this to get back at humans or they are not just in the mood for human contact.
Sometime last week, my cat (Gyal) acted very indifferent towards me. Initially, I thought it was her pregnancy hormones acting up. I realized it had nothing to do with hormones when she happily jolted up when my brother approached her. The same cat that ignored me was all over my brother. Something was certainly off.
The next night, I tried spending time with Gyal once again and this time around I whispered, I'm not going anywhere until you drop the act. Because contrary to what people may think, cats have very strong intuitions and can tell certain atmospheres and emotions apart. They too have feelings that determine how they act sometimes.
For the first few minutes, nothing happened. Gyal looked everywhere else while carefully avoiding my gaze.
About ten minutes later, she finally succumbed and let me caress her neck. I remained in that position for a while and Gyal seemed to be having a great time. This was when the discovery played out; judging from how busy my schedule has been these past few weeks, I've barely spent quality time with Gyal or her children. Everytime I return home and her head pops up, I throw a random “hey Gyal, how're you doing” and then breeze past her. This may have come off as rejection and so my darling diva chose to act accordingly.
I've come to realize that beneath the tough facade, my cat craves actual and undivided attention, companionship and affection. Irrespective of how they act, cats are social animals, and while they might not always show it in obvious ways like dogs do, they too often seek gentle petting (especially in the right spots), soft words and quiet bonding time with their favorite humans.
Her favorite spot
Now, I spend more time with Gyal and her kids, listening to her soft purrs, meows and capturing every moment whenever I can. This in itself is a form of therapy.
Oh and yes, she hates it whenever I say goodbye but I always return and she is consoled by this.
Images are mine except stated otherwise.