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Health & Fitness

Bunting isn't just in baseball......

You know when your cat gives you a sweet head butt? Well that is called bunting and is a sign of love, affection and yes he or she is marking you! It can be a gentle nudge or a full on bonk to the forehead. Sometimes I end up with a face full of fur! (thanks Marlin) Cats have scent glands all over there bodies and they use them to leave their scent on them and now on you. This is a very affectionate behavior and your kitty may also be asking for attention. Saying "Please pet me, play with me, give me a good belly rub or back scratch " You may notice if you have more than one cat that they head butt each other. This is a sweet sign of friendship and affection. Try and grab that I-Phone quickly as that is a FB moment, right???
The whole concept of scent communication is a complex one. Yes it is used for marking territory, creating familiarity, self soothing and more. Oh and yes I have those lovely little dark marks on corners in my house and furniture from cheek rubs, but this all means nothing when one of my guys jumps onto to office table, bonks my head and follows with an occasional kiss. 
So next time you get head butted just know in that moment your kitty is saying how much he loves you and know how lucky you are.

If you do not get enough "bunting " in your life head on down the Monmouth County SPCA and become a volunteer!
I promise many kitty head butts in your future!

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