What does slow blinking communicate in cat language?
Written by
John Williams
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Slow blinks in cat language are a strong signal of trust that can alter the way humans understand their cats. When my cat Luna slow-blinks at me in quiet moments, she is saying, "I feel safe with you." This slow closure of the eyes is different from normal blinking and helps foster understanding between the species.
Meaning and Purpose
- Signals non-threatening intentions
- Demonstrates emotional security
- Reduces tension during interactions
How Cats Use It
- Initiates bonding with trusted humans
- Diffuses potential conflicts
- Reassures during stressful situations
Optimal Contexts
- Quiet moments without direct eye contact
- Before approaching nervous cats
- After positive shared experiences
Research shows that slow blinking is important for a reason. Research indicates that cats approach people who slow blink more often than they approach a person who is looking at them. When a slow blink occurs, it releases oxytocin in both the cat and the person involved, creating an emotional bond between both parties as a result of the understanding.
It is important to be aware of returning slow blinks. This is something I practice with Luna. I close my eyes completely for two seconds, then slowly blink them open. Providing a consistent response builds trust over time, week by week. Avoid the rapid blink that may confuse your cat.
Respecting boundaries is what makes slow blinking work. Never try to force eye contact with anxious cats. Blink slowly, while gazing just slightly past them, in a non-threatening manner to comfort a timid feline without overwhelming them.
Integrate slow blinking into your bonding routine and practice it at serene moments such as feeding time or the end of the day. This easy method facilitates non-verbal communication, giving your special rapport with your cat a deeper quality.
Read the full article: Understanding Cat Body Language Completely
