Why Does My Cat Slow Blink?

If your cat looks at you and slowly closes and opens their eyes, congratulations—you've just received a "cat kiss." This behavior is one of the most well-documented signs of feline affection.

What is the slow blink?

• •A deliberate, slow closing and opening of the eyes while looking at you.
• •Different from regular blinking—it's slower and more intentional.
• •Often accompanied by a relaxed body posture.

The science behind it

• •A 2020 University of Sussex study confirmed that cats slow blink more at their owners than strangers.
• •Cats were also more likely to approach humans who slow blinked at them.
• •It's believed to be a trust signal—closing eyes shows vulnerability.

How to slow blink back

• •Look at your cat with soft, relaxed eyes.
• •Slowly close your eyes for 1-2 seconds.
• •Open them gently and repeat.
• •Don't force it—if your cat looks away, that's okay.

When cats slow blink

• •During calm, relaxed moments.
• •When they feel safe in their environment.
• •Often while sitting at a comfortable distance from you.
• •Rarely when stressed or in unfamiliar settings.

Conclusion

The slow blink is a beautiful form of interspecies communication. By learning to recognize and reciprocate this gesture, you can deepen your bond with your cat in a way they truly understand.