Five ways to show your cat you love them, according to a feline behaviorist

Cats have their own special ways that they like to give and receive love, so once you suss out their love language, you'll be able to show your feline friend just how much they mean to you in a way that they'll understand.

Whether you've had your kitty in your life for a long time or you're in the throes of learning how to prepare for a cat, showing love in a way that's meaningful to them will go a long way in helping you build a strong and happy relationship.

With that in mind, Maria, a certified cat trainer and behaviorist and founder of Cats Explained, has shared a video to Instagram in which she reveals five easy ways you can show your kitty you love them.

Read on to find out what they are...

1. Play with them: Learning how to play with a cat is one of the most important things you can do to show your cat you love them. "Get those paws movin’ and hearts racin’ with fun games and toys," Maria advises. Mix it up by using a variety of different play things, such as the best interactive cat toys which are brilliant for stimulating your cat's natural hunting instincts.

2. Show your kitty affection: "Snuggle up and spend quality time together," says Maria. "Just being close can make your cat feel loved." It's important to understand that how a cat likes to receive affection will vary. For some cats, this may look like cuddling up on your lap and being pet, while for others, simply being beside you will be enough for them to feel connected to you. Learn your cat and always respect their boundaries.

3. Fulfil their basic needs: "Give your cat a clean litter box, yummy food, a comfy bed, and fresh water," says Maria. Try experimenting with the best wet cat food and best dry cat food to see which one your cat likes best, be sure to clean out their litter box once a day, and explore which style of cat bed suits their personality. For example, outgoing cats often prefer a mat or bed with low sides so that they can be a part of all the action, while shy cats may prefer a cave-style bed that they can retreat to for peace and quiet.

4. Give them a cat kiss: One of the big signs of a happy cat, the slow blink is a common way cats communicate their love. Try giving one back and seeing how your feline friend responds.

5. Reward them with tasty treats: "Use treats and praise to celebrate their good behavior. Little nibbles of joy make feline friends feel extra special." Check out our guide to the best cat treats for inspiration.

If you're wanting your cat to know you love them, following Maria's simple tips above is a great place to start.