Cats headbutt humans primarily as a way to show affection, trust, and to mark them with their scent. This behavior, also called "bunting," involves the cat rubbing pheromone glands located on their cheeks, forehead, and chin against a person. These pheromones signal to the cat and other cats that the person is familiar, safe, and part of their social group or territory. Headbutting is also a social bonding behavior that cats use to create connections and demonstrate that they feel comfortable and content with you. Additionally, cats may headbutt to get attention or as a greeting.

Key Reasons Cats Headbutt Humans:

• Affection and Trust : Headbutting is a cat's way of saying "I like you" and that they feel safe around you.
• Scent Marking : Cats deposit pheromones from glands on their faces onto you to mark you as part of their territory or social group.
• Social Bonding : It is a communal behavior cats also use with other cats to build and strengthen social bonds.
• Attention Seeking : Cats may headbutt to get your attention for petting or interaction.

This behavior is a positive gesture indicating strong bonds and trust between a cat and its human companion.