Learn your pet’s love language this Valentine’s Day

Happy tails and joyful leaps

We all know that a ‘wagging tail’ means happiness, but that’s only the case for dogs. Cats also use their tails to communicate, but it’s a straight-up tail that twitches at the tip that owners should watch out for. This is a graceful sign of contentment. Less gracefully, rabbits show joy with energetic leaps and mid-air twists known as binkies. It’s not hard to tell that this one is a sign of happiness—binkies are literally jumping for joy.

Head bumps, wriggles, and nudges

Physical affection is a clear sign of love, and each species does it differently. A cat might nuzzle you or brush their cheek against you — leaving their scent as a mark of trust. Dogs tend to do things whole-heartedly. Sometimes when a dog sees their owner, they become so excited they simply need to do a full-body wriggle. Rabbits are just as loving, but they’d prefer to just nudge you. These ways all differ, but you can translate them in the same way: ‘you’re special to me.’

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Gentle grooming and kneading

Grooming is a personal way pets express affection, and some species do it in similar ways. Both cats and rabbits lick their favourite humans, just as they would their own kind. This is a way which they mark out their social circle. Cats may also knead — a habit they pick up as kittens that shows they are very comfortable and content. Dogs lick as well, but it isn’t the same sort of gentle, careful grooming. It’s more of a slobbery kiss. Either way, it’s loving for sure.

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Belly flops and rolling around

It’s heartwarming when your pet can fully relax with you. Both cats and dogs naturally try not to display their bellies, as these are spots where they are vulnerable. This means that when they roll onto their back in front of you, it is a sign of great trust. Dogs will let you rub their belly, but for cats this area is usually a bit too sensitive. Don’t be fooled — just because they trust you doesn’t mean you’ll get away scratch-free from rubbing their belly.

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Speaking with their eyes

In the wild, animals use their eyes to say a lot — it is one of their best ways to tell others if they are friend or foe. Even as pets, cats and rabbits use calm, steady eye contact to show they feel safe. Cats often add a slow blink as well, as this is an extra sign of trust and affection. Dogs don’t slow blink, but when they lock eyes with their humans it releases oxytocin for both parties involved. In fact, studies have shown that the levels of oxycontin, known as the ‘love hormone’, tend to go soaring up in us more than in our dogs. Clearly, we really feel it when they look longingly at us.

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Playful presents and greetings

What do a toy mouse, a squeaky ball, and a nose nudge have in common? They’re all things our pets might give us. Cats may leave a treasured toy at your feet — or, less charmingly, an unexpected outdoor “gift.” You might not always be glad to receive these, but they’re well meant. Not all dogs are gift-givers, but some are very eager to share their joy. Dogs sometimes greet their owners by bringing over a favourite toy. Rabbits, though, aren’t really about physical gifts. The most you might expect is a little boop from their nose: a quiet but clear hello. 

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Conclusion

Being fluent in pet love language brings a lot of joy. Reading every head bump, wagging tail, and binky means you know when you’re being showered in praise. This Valentine’s Day, show your pet some love. A scratch behind the ears, a gentle pat, or their favourite treat lets them know their affection is appreciated. After all, love is a language we all understand. 

For more help and advice about your pet, have a chat with your local vet.

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