
Cats are known for being mysterious, but sometimes, their behavior isn’t just them being a cat—it might be a subtle (or not-so-subtle) sign that they’re not your biggest fan. If your feline friend treats you like an annoying roommate rather than their favorite human, you might be making some missteps in their book. Here are 15 signs your cat might secretly dislike you.
They Run Away When You Enter the Room

If every time you step into a room, your cat takes off like they’ve just seen a ghost, that’s not a good sign. Sure, some cats are naturally skittish, but if they’re fine with other people and only run from you, they probably associate you with something negative. Maybe you startled them one too many times or simply haven’t earned their trust. The fix? Move slowly, avoid sudden loud noises, and let them come to you.
They Never Blink at You

Ever noticed how some cats give their humans a long, slow blink? That’s basically the feline equivalent of a warm hug—it means they trust and love you. If your cat stares at you unblinking, like they’re waiting for you to confess to a crime, or avoids eye contact completely, that’s not a great sign. Try slow blinking at them; if they blink back, congrats—you’re not on their hit list.
Their Tail Flicks Constantly When You’re Around

A cat’s tail is like a built-in mood indicator. If their tail flicks back and forth like an irritated windshield wiper every time you approach, they’re not excited to see you—they’re annoyed. This could mean you’re petting them too much, invading their space, or being too extra for their taste. Watch their tail signals closely—it’s one of the best ways to know when you should back off.
They Swat or Bite Without Warning

A cat that plays rough is one thing. A cat that attacks you out of nowhere is another. If they’re swatting at you with claws or delivering sharp little warning bites (not the playful kind), they’re trying to tell you something: Back off. This could mean you’re handling them wrong, petting them in a way they don’t like, or they find you irritating. Whatever the reason, ignoring these warnings will only earn you more scratches.
They Flatten Their Ears When You Try to Pet Them

Ears pinned back = cat language for leave me alone. If your cat flattens their ears every time you reach out for a pet, they’re not enjoying it. Some cats are just picky about where and when they like to be touched. Instead of forcing affection, try paying attention to their favorite petting spots (most cats love chin scratches) and never force a cuddle session.
They Avoid Sitting Near You—Even When They Have the Option

Some cats aren’t lap cats, and that’s fine. But if your cat goes out of their way to never sit next to you—even when they’ll happily curl up with other people—that’s a bit of a red flag. Most cats at least like to be in the same room as their humans. If yours keeps a suspicious distance, like you’re about to ask them for rent money, they might not feel completely comfortable with you yet.
They Show You Their Back (Literally)

Cats turning their back on you can be a sign of trust—if their tail is relaxed and they’re sitting nearby. But if they turn away and flick their tail sharply, it’s a different story. That’s their way of saying, I’m done with you. It’s basically the cat version of someone refusing to make eye contact after a fight.
They Hiss at You (Even When You’re Not Doing Anything Wrong)

A hiss isn’t just for full-on aggression—it’s a clear back-off signal. If your cat hisses at you whenever you get too close, they don’t feel safe around you. This could be because of a past bad experience, rough handling, or just general distrust.Either way, forcing interaction will only make it worse. Give them space, and let them decide when they’re ready to engage.
They Don’t Knead You (or Purr Around You)

Kneading (that cute little paw-pressing motion) is a cat’s way of showing comfort and affection. If your cat never kneads you—or doesn’t purr when you’re around—it might mean they don’t feel that level of comfort with you yet. But don’t take it personally! Some cats are just less expressive. Focus on creating positive experiences, and one day, you might get a surprise biscuit-making session.
They Knock Things Over—But Only When You’re Watching

Cats knocking things off tables is classic feline mischief, but if your cat only does it while staring directly at you, they might be making a statement. Some cats do this for attention, others do it purely out of spite. If they give you a smug look before slowly pushing your coffee cup off the counter, you can be pretty sure they’re messing with you on purpose.
They Ignore You When You Call Them

Cats aren’t known for their obedience, but if yours never responds to your voice—even when you’re offering food or treats—they might be actively avoiding you. A happy, bonded cat will at least flick their ears or glance at you when you talk to them. If your cat acts like they didn’t even hear you, they might not see you as someone worth acknowledging.
They Avoid Touching You—Even by Accident

Most cats will at least brush against their human’s leg now and then, even if they’re not overly affectionate. But if your cat actively avoids touching you—sidestepping you like a stranger on a crowded sidewalk—that’s a clear sign they’re not feeling the love. Try bonding with them through play and treats to rebuild trust.
They Bring You ‘Gifts’ That Feel More Like Threats

Some cats bring their humans gifts, like toys or unfortunate small animals. But if your cat drops something weird (like a shredded sock or a half-eaten bug) in front of you while making eye contact, it might not be a gift—it could be a statement. What that statement is…Well, that’s up for debate.
They Refuse to Sleep in the Same Room as You

Cats love finding safe, cozy sleeping spots—often near their favorite humans. If your cat never chooses to sleep in the same room as you, even when they have the option, it could mean they don’t fully trust you yet. Try giving them their space, and over time, they might warm up.
They Give You the Silent Treatment

If your usually chatty cat suddenly stops meowing at you—but still meows at other people—you might be in trouble. Cats communicate in their own way, and if they’ve decided you’re not worth talking to, it’s basically the equivalent of them muting you. The best way to fix it? Rebuild trust with treats, play, and patience.