Why does my cat put his bum in my face?

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Does your cat put his rear end in your face? Find out why your cat puts his bum in your face.

It’s an all too familiar sight — you’re sitting down after a busy day at work, your cat greets you courteously, but then promptly turns around and puts his bum in your face, tail held high and proud. But, why?

First and foremost, he is not trying to be offensive by walking up to you and putting his rear end in your face — he is doing what comes naturally, and allowing you to gain information about him.

Cats have glands all over their bodies, including the base of their tails and either side of their anus. These glands contain scents that are unique to each cat and can communicate many things, including, age, health, and sexual status.

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Letting another cat have this much information can put your cat in a potentially vulnerable situation, so the fact that he has presented his rear end to you means he is very comfortable, and assumes that you are comfortable too! He trusts you.

The next time your cat puts his bum in your face, give him a little scratch at the base of his tail in return for his display of trust and affection.