Why do cats rub their faces on you and objects? 

Is there anything sweeter than loving face rubs from your cat? There’s no doubt this affectionate headbutting, also called “bunting,” is an act of love, yet there is more to bunting than meets the eye…Or should we say nose?

After all, bunting is all about scent. Your cat has several scent glands on their face, including on the cheeks, around the mouth, under the chin and by the ears. When rubbed, these glands release pheromones that your cat uses to mark their territory. Although you will never notice this smell, other cats will get the message loud and clear.

That’s why your cat rubs against things in your house—to mark them as part of their domain. They’ll often choose the largest or most prominent items, like a couch, bed or desk, so that their markings have the most impact.

But does that mean your cat is marking you as their territory, too? It sure does, and it’s a high honor! They love you and want to be sure no other cat vies for your attention. 

Of course, in multi-cat households, your cats learn to share your attention, and they do this in part by sharing each other’s scent. By bunting against other cats from their colony, they create a single, combined scent that they then also rub on you so you can smell like the group too—how thoughtful!

Feline facial pheromones can be very helpful in reducing anxiety and fear. Purchased as sprays and diffusers, these pheromones will send a signal to your cat that they are in a safe space, increasing their sense of security and helping them relax.

Check out veterinarian-approved feline facial pheromones. >>