In shortA cat does not show attachment like a dog, which is why people think he is aloof. His signs are discreet and very reliable: the slow blink, the tail held high with a curved tip when he sees you, headbutts and rubbing, the exposed belly, sleeping against you or simply in the same room. A cat who follows you from a distance and settles six feet away loves you as much as a cat on your lap.
A usually affectionate cat who isolates himself, no longer greets you or refuses contact is not “sulking”: in cats, withdrawal is often the first sign of pain or illness. Consult if it lasts more than twenty-four hours.
Many cats dislike laps, too warm, too unstable, too exposed. They prefer being beside you. Look at the other signs: tail up when you arrive, blinks, presence in the same room.
He loves you, but the stroking lasted too long or touched a sensitive area. It is a question of threshold, not affection. Stroke briefly, head and cheeks, and stop at the first tail flick.
It is a sharing behavior, inherited from the mother bringing prey to her kittens. He treats you as a member of the group, even if the gift is awkward. Say thank you, do not scold.
Mimo reads behavior. It does not replace a vet.
Ten seconds is enough. On iPhone. Android is in closed testing.