Why Do Cats Close Their Eyes When You Pet Them? (Find Out Now!)

If you own a cat, you will notice the many quirky and cute things your cat does. They love to play with a tassel or string and love to sit in your lap.

You’ll also see that they love to have you pet them and give them the attention they crave.

When you pet your cat, they may close their eyes because they trust you, are relaxed, or because they appreciate you.

They also close their eyes simply because you’re touching their face. You can tell a lot by looking into your cat’s eyes; their eyes can communicate a lot, even when they’re closed.

Cats have different ways of expressing themselves and their feelings to their owners. Some of it is as simple as purring in contentment during a long nap.

They are very expressive, and their eyes are just as expressive as their body language.

Do Cats Like To Have You Pet Them?

There is a broad view from a variety of people that say cats do not like to have any attention. Cats are known to be loners and aloof, preferring to hide under your bed as you walk by.

However, in actuality, cats form strong bonds with their owners. They love the attention of their beloved owner with whom they have bonded.

Your cat will come up to you and beg to be scratched as they rub against your leg. Your cat loves your attention and particularly loves to have their head scratched.

Cats may seem loners and prefer to sit at the window than with you. But your cat will not be opposed to a good scratch under their chin, which builds a bond.

Petting your cat and finding what they like is an excellent start to getting to know one another. Additionally, petting your cat is a perfect way to show your love and affection to them.

In return, they give you companionship and comfort. When your cat closes their eyes when you pet them, it has many meanings.

Your Cat Closes Their Eyes When You Pet Them Because They Trust You

Many cats love the company of their owners, but in nature, your cat is a fierce predator. Cats are usually vigilant in watching their surroundings. Even while sleeping, wild cats are on high alert.

They trust you if your cat closes their eyes while you stroke them. Feeling safe is essential for your cat to achieve in their home. You are not only their owner but a protector. 

Do not mistake their eyes closing for being sleepy, closing their eyes is a sign of pure trust.

They don’t have to watch your every move or suspect you will hurt them. It is a compliment to your relationship and bond. 

Cats Close Their Eyes Because They Are Relaxed

Unsurprisingly, we close our eyes for a brief moment of peace when we relax. Your cat can close their eyes while you stroke them on your lap because they are relaxed.

Cats are sensitive and can feel and sense you all over their body. Their body has many nerve receptors, and their head and back, along with their feet, are the most sensitive.

When you stroke and scratch their favorite spots, this helps them to relax. They close their eyes and prepare for a good cuddle.

It can be difficult for your cat to relax sometimes. Since they are always on alert and the cat’s senses are very sensitive, it might be difficult for your cat to rest. They need to have a reason to relax.

Every animal and person deserves to relax. Relaxation is a sign of contentment and pleasure. When your cat closes their eyes, they are comfortable with you.

They long to have a secure, relaxed home life, and your companionship is essential.

Your Cat Appreciates You

In owning a pet, you are responsible for their care and well-being. You might assume cats can’t (or don’t care enough to show appreciation to you, but that is not true. Cats have various ways to show gratitude.

Your cat can bring you dead outdoor critters, mark their territory, and rub themselves all over your clothes. But closing their eyes while you stroke them on a warm night shows they appreciate you.

Cats may not always show their appreciation how you want them to. However, they are grateful for you nonetheless, even if they only show it occasionally.

Cats might not wag their tail like a dog, but closing their eyes is a sure sign. Cats have an excellent appreciation for affection, and if you give them love, they will show it in return.

Your cat will revel in the constant attention you lavish upon them when they want it. Therefore, typically a cat with closed eyes is a happy cat.

Just Touching A Cat’s Face Causes Their Eyes To Close

When things come toward your face, it is not uncommon for you to flinch or blink. Your reflexes are a common reaction to a behavior that is sudden or surprising.

Your cat has the same reflexes, plus their reflex is also hereditary. When touching a cat’s face, it causes them to pull its whiskers back, flatten its ears, and close its eyes.

Closed eyes are a common reaction to objects coming toward their face. Petting and stroking their face forces them to protect their eyes, so they close them.

It is common as your hand raises to pet them or comes close to their face, their eyes instinctually closed. Eyes closing is also a sign they are ready to be touched and snuggled.

Closing their eyes is not a sign of fear but a natural protection mechanism.

Facts About Your Cat’s Eyes

You can look into your cat’s eyes before a nap to see how your cat is feeling. Eyes are the window to the soul, which is no different for your cat.

In understanding their eyes, you can read them better while you pet them.

As you pet a cat’s face and look into its eyes, you can tell a lot by its pupils. If the pupil is enlarged, it means they are aroused and excited. If the pupils are narrow, it can tell you they are agitated or fearful.

Cats’ eyes can tell you how they may react to you and your touch.

By understanding and studying your feline, you can learn much about their likes or dislikes. Slow blinking as you stroke their head is a sign of love and trust.

None of this should come as a surprise, and most signs come with others; ears down and twitching tail. Reading your cat’s expression lets you bond and learn more about caring for them.

When you genuinely get to know your cat, you will have a life companion.

Related Questions

Why is my cat staring?

A cat’s vision might lead them to follow the path of a minuscule insect or a floating speck of dust. Their eyesight is so in tune with their surroundings that they seem to see things we can’t see.

They can spend hours watching the wall or looking out the window. They stare to keep their eyes on particular objects or to observe the world around them. They are protectors and watch for any potential threat.

They have an acute sense of sight and can see everything around the yard. Unlike our eyes, cats have a third eyelid that keeps their eyes hydrated, so staring is easier.

This third eyelid keeps their eyes clean of debris. It allows them not to blink as often and lets them stare away.

Does my cat like to be petted?

Unlike dogs, cats are more apt to be loners, perfectly content to lounge solo. That is not to say that your cat does not like a bit of attention here and there.

It is a good sign if they roll over and show you their belly or rub your legs. Although they like to lay in the sun alone, it does not mean they do not like a friendly scratch.

Cats love a good scratch on their head, back, and chin. So although they may not always be cuddly, you can bet they love attention from you.

Should I keep eye contact with my cat?

Some animals love an excellent stare-down. Cats do it preferably before they pounce and during a good game of cat and mouse.

Staring and eye contact is an instinctual hunting technique, so a cat never loses sight of prey.

One should be careful of keeping eye contact with your pet for too long because it can lead to tension. Cats and other animals use eye contact to establish dominance.

So if you engage in a staring contest with your cat, your feline might misconstrue the gesture as a challenge.