When a cat slowly narrows its eyes while looking at someone, it may be communicating something surprisingly friendly. Scientists have tested the behavior, and the results suggest a slow blink can help build trust between cats and humans.
Scientists Put the Slow Blink to the Test
In a 2020 study published in Scientific Reports, researchers at the universities of Sussex and Portsmouth conducted two experiments. In the first, owners slowly narrowed their eyes at their cats. The cats were more likely to slow-blink back than when owners kept neutral expressions.
Cats Responded to Strangers, Too
In a second experiment, 24 cats interacted with unfamiliar researchers. Cats were more likely to approach an outstretched hand after the researcher slow-blinked at them than after a neutral expression. That suggests the behavior may help make human interactions feel less threatening.
What Does the Blink Mean?
Researchers describe slow blinking as a positive form of cat-human communication. It doesn’t necessarily mean a cat is declaring love, but relaxed eye narrowing may signal that the interaction feels safe. It’s a useful reminder that cats communicate through body language, not just meows and purrs.
How to Try It at Home
When your cat is relaxed, soften your gaze, slowly narrow your eyes, and close them briefly before looking away. Give the cat space to respond or ignore you. Avoid staring directly without blinking, which can feel threatening to some cats.
Read the Whole Cat, Not Just the Eyes
A slow blink is only one clue. Relaxed posture, ears, tail position, and willingness to approach also help show how a cat feels. The best approach is to let the cat set the pace. Sometimes the friendliest thing a person can do is simply blink slowly and give a little space.
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