How to Express Your Love to Your Pets on Valentine’s Day

Signs Your Cat Loves You

Cats are often seen as aloof and uncaring — but the opposite is true! In fact, recent studies have shown just how much cats adore their people. Here are just some of the ways your cat tells you how much they love you:

• Slow blinking. You may notice your cat staring at you before very slowly closing their eyes. This gesture is your cat’s way of smiling at you!
• Purring. Purring is a calming action, and contented cats will happily purr on a warm lap. If your cat often curls up beside you and purrs, chances are they’re showing you how much they like you.
• Kneading and headbutting. When your cat is comfortable and relaxed, they’ll often knead or headbutt as a way to show their comfort. You may also notice your cat rubbing his cheeks on your hands or objects you own — a sign that your cat is claiming you all for their own.
• Snuggling. Cats love to cuddle with the people they love. If your cat often seeks out your lap for a cuddle or nap, they feel very comfortable with you.
• Sharing “kills”. While it may seem gross, cats will bring mice, leaves, and other items to the people they love the most. If you notice your cat brings you leaves, sticks, or other small objects often, they’re telling you how much they care.

Signs Your Dog Loves You

Dogs are “Man’s best friend” for a reason! Dogs are excellent at expressing their love for people, but there are a few key behaviors that can show you just how much they love you:

• Following you around the house. A happy dog wants to be with his people — and that means hanging out with you. If your dog follows you from room to room, it’s a good sign that they enjoy your company.
• Snuggling. Dogs are social creatures and want to be with the people they love most. If your dog always wants to be on your lap or curled up next to you, they’re probably pretty enamored by you!
• Demanding pets. Does your dog always ask for more scratches behind the ears or on the belly? If your dog is always asking for more pets or placing a paw on your hand, there’s a good chance they love you.
• Wanting to play. If your dog always brings you their favorite toy or chew bone when they spot you, chances are they think you’re pretty neat!

How to Show Love to Your Pets on Valentine’s Day

There are many ways to tell your pets “I love you” on Valentine’s Day. Be sure to avoid harmful items such as toxic chocolates or candy that can cause GI upset, and try out these pet-friendly options instead. Your dog or cat will appreciate it!

Ways to Show Your Cat Your Love

• Make some heart-shaped catnip-filled toys. If your cat enjoys catnip, they’ll love this toy as much as you love them! Take felt or another fabric, cut it into a heart shape, sew the edges, and stuff it with cotton batting and some catnip. Your cat will have fun snuggling with their new toy.
• Create a foraging puzzle. Dogs aren’t the only pets that enjoy puzzle toys. Hide some treats or kibble-filled toys around the house, or fill up a puzzle toy with your cat’s favorite snacks. They’ll enjoy the enrichment and getting to “hunt” for their food.
• Play together. Does your cat love laser pointers or feathery toys? Go on an adventure around the house, up a cat tree, or down the hall. Your cat will appreciate the exercise and time spent together.
• Schedule a cuddle session. Grab that warm comfy blanket, put on your cat’s favorite bird-watching YouTube channel, and curl up together. Your cat will enjoy the pets, snuggles, and entertainment while spending some quality time with you.

Ways to Show Your Dog You Love Them

• Bake a heart-shaped treat. A treat made with dog-safe ingredients such as oatmeal or sweet potato can be a great way to share your love. Make it heart-shaped for an extra-special Valentine’s Day gift.
• Take a trip to the pet store together. Don’t have time to bake? Many pet stores and pet bakeries offer a variety of pet-safe Valentine’s treats. Take a trip together and let your dog pick out their favorite!
• Play a game together. Does your dog love tug-o-war or playing fetch? Take some time to play a game or two together. Spending time together is a great way to show your love.
• Go for a long walk somewhere new. Exploring new sights and scents is a great way to share your love with your dog! Take lots of breaks on your walk to let your dog sniff all the new and exciting things you find along the way.
• Have a cuddle session. Pull out your comfiest fuzzy blanket, make a mug of something warm for yourself, and bring some treats for your dog! Watching a movie or TV show together while curled up on the couch can be the best way to share your love.

Valentine’s Day is a great time to learn more about the ways your dog or cat expresses love and the ways you can show yours in return. However, you don’t have to wait for the holidays to do so! Try out a few of these tips and tricks on any day of the week to show your pet just how much you care. You may spot them showing their love in return!