How to Slow Blink Back at Your Cat

How to Slow Blink Back at Your Cat

If you've learned that the cat slow blink is a sign of trust and affection, the natural next question is: can you slow blink back? The answer is yes — and it actually works. Here's how to do it correctly and what to expect.

Why Slow Blinking Back Matters

A 2020 study from the University of Sussex confirmed that cats respond positively to humans who slow blink at them. Cats were more likely to approach and interact with humans who slow blinked than those who maintained a neutral expression. Slow blinking back is a genuine form of communication that your cat understands and responds to.

How to Slow Blink at Your Cat: Step by Step

1. Find a calm moment. Choose a time when your cat is relaxed — resting, sitting quietly, or already looking at you. Don't try this when your cat is agitated or distracted.
2. Make soft eye contact. Look at your cat gently. Avoid a hard, direct stare, which can feel threatening. Your gaze should be relaxed and soft.
3. Slowly close your eyes halfway. Let your eyelids drop slowly — not a quick blink, but a deliberate, unhurried closing. Hold the half-closed position for 1–2 seconds.
4. Slowly open your eyes. Open them gently, maintaining the same soft, relaxed expression.
5. Look away briefly. After the slow blink, breaking eye contact briefly reinforces the non-threatening message.
6. Wait and observe. Many cats will respond with a slow blink of their own within a few seconds. Some may approach you. Others may simply relax further.

Tips for Success

• Be patient — not every cat responds immediately, especially if they're not already in a relaxed state
• Don't force it — if your cat looks away or leaves, that's fine. Try again later.
• Practice regularly — the more you slow blink at your cat, the more they'll associate it with positive interaction
• Combine with a calm, quiet voice — speaking softly while slow blinking reinforces the calming message

Using Slow Blinking With Unfamiliar Cats

The slow blink is also effective with cats you don't know. When meeting a new cat, avoid direct eye contact and instead offer a slow blink from a distance. This communicates that you're not a threat and can help a shy or fearful cat feel more comfortable approaching you.

Building the Bond Further

Slow blinking is one tool in a broader toolkit for building trust with your cat. Combined with regular play sessions using the 11PCS Interactive Cat Wand Toy Pack, positive reinforcement with treats like Friskies Party Mix Natural YUMS, and respecting your cat's boundaries, slow blinking contributes to a deeply trusting relationship.

Final Thoughts

Slow blinking back at your cat is one of the simplest and most effective ways to communicate affection in a language they understand. It takes seconds, costs nothing, and genuinely strengthens your bond. Try it today.