My Cat still shows some signs of love, but seems less interested in me

didi20

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Hello this is the first cat i have ever had, her name is Maggie and she is 1 year old (I don't know her breed so i'll just post a picture of her)

The "problem" i've been having is basically the title. When she was younger i would lay on the floor or on my bed and she would instantly come to me, rubbing herself on me, lick my face/hands and just lay next to me aswell. When i was on the computer she would jump on my lap and sleep there. 

Now it's like.... she is a bit more "independant" and "mature" and doesn't need me anymore.  She still licks my hands/face when i come to pet her but only when she is sleepy, she doesn't let me pick her up as often and when i lay down on the ground she does a lap around me rubbing herself and then just leaves. Also she only comes to me when she wants to eat (she picked up this habit a few days ago, that i need to be there watching/petting her while she eats).

Is this a normal behaviour for a cat and i'm just overreacting because i'm new to this or did i do something wrong?


(This is a picture of her sleeping in my chest, when i was watching tv on my bed.)
 

2Cats4everLoved

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Hello & Welcome to TCS


Maggie is very pretty kitty.  

Some cats go through phase.

May I ask when she was last seen by a vet.  I'm only asking to rule out any possible ailments that may be effecting her behavior.  Please don't get nervous, I'm just curious.

Do you have quality playtime with her?

You could try massaging her during grooming or just place her by your side on sofa, bed etc, and Maggie may like your touch and come around for it more often.

Cats are funny creatures.  I wouldn't take it personally.  My boy after 13 years would sometimes put me in my place if I got too close, LOL but for the most part he was my shadow never left my side.

Wish I was more help.  Sorry.

Hope & my gal Chestnut
 

di and bob

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You have done nothing wrong, your Maggie is growing up! I have had countless kittens, and when they are young, under a year, they are always cuddlers and wanting held. Around that year mark they always seem to get more independent and not near as friendly. There are exceptions, I've had a few, very few, who remain cats that are always on your lap and demanding to be held. But that is the exception.  Most cats remain friendly, but want attention on THEIR terms, getting on your lap when they want to. They are definitely not like dogs, that live for your affection and approval, They are more independent and mysterious, which is one of the traits of a feline.  Encourage her to be more friendly, yummy treats really help! Love her for the precious soul she is and enjoy her personality, she sounds like a wonderful companion!
 

belochka

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What everyone said.
Just like people, each cat has a personality of its own, personal likes, dislikes and quirks. :) some are cuddly, others - not do much, and there are those who aren't into cuddling at all.
But they still express their affection for you, just in their own unique way. E.g., from your own words: she still cuddles, licks your hands etc., just not like a baby kitten. AND she wants you to be there when she eats - that's a significant sign of her affection for you. Food is almost "sacred" for most animals, and the fact that not only does she trust you to be around her food, but also wants you to be there - says a lot.
(If you think of it - human toddlers and teens/adults express their affection very differently, too, ;) -- same for kittens vs. older cats).
She still loves you, just expressing it in a more "adult" way.
 
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