We’ve all heard about the five love languages of people, but what about our pets? Turns out, they’re not all that different.
Tail wagging, purring, cuddling and barking are some of the ways cats and dog speak to us.
Cats and dogs may not be able to speak our language, but that doesn’t mean they can’t communicate affection in their own way. To reciprocate the love our pets show us, we need to understand their expressions and explore what their unique love language looks like.
The pet-health experts at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health South Africa, know how important understanding your pet’s love language can be in building a better bond with them.
Sr. Alet Joubert says that there are so many ways in which our pets express their desire to be closer to us. “A cheeky puppy that loves playing hide-and-seek prioritises quality time as its love language, while a cat that rubs up against you for cuddle time appreciates love through physical touch.”
This month, learn how to speak your furry friend’s language by exploring all 5 aspects of love:
Quality Time
Whether they’re following you to the bathroom, sitting on your laptop staring at your face, or jumping into bed with you, pets enjoy spending quality time with their owners, whether it be playing, going for walks, or simply just sitting together while you both watch tv.
Physical Touch
Scratches, rubs, and pats. Our furry friends crave physical attention like cuddling, petting, and grooming. Cats often knead in their owner’s laps, a comforting action that stems from nursing as an infant.
Gifts
While your pets are unlikely to enjoy the latest smartphone or fancy flowers, they do appreciate tasty treats, pet toys, and other forms of rewards. Dog training is often paired with a system that works on tasty rewards.
Acts of Service
A slight overlap with quality time, pets appreciate when their owners take care of their basic needs consistently, such as feeding at the same times, walking regularly, and grooming them to keep them fresh and chipper.
Words of Affirmation
Pets respond positively to verbal cues, such as praising them or using their names. But if you feel like taking it a step further, why not write your cat a poem, read your dog a book, and have a conversation with them about the meaning of life?
