I could hardy move from side to side and when I put my head down to rest, Oscar would jump up and kneed the back of my neck and purr until I actually felt better and could fall asleep. He was a great caregiver and I got to have him for many years. Broke my heart when he passed over. I think all domestic animals have a sense that we don’t understand but when it’s displayed, it’s how they love us.

She was declawed by her former person, sadly. But her front paws are like soft leather mitts now, and perfect for stroking.

I was told, by the shelter where I adopted her, that she had previously had two owners. The original, who died, and the second who went to assisted living. And so kitty likely had some kneading and soothing to do for both of those ladies.

Whatever that history is, she's VERY good at it, and I am VERY grateful for her TLC.

I was told that she is fifteen years old, but her energy and spirit make me doubt that.

...I suspect that humans are lacking some instinctive understanding/communication ability that a lot of other species have and rely on.

Maybe that's why we need to depend on the crutch of such complex and inefficient skills as formal languages.

would climb up, put one paw on each side of my neck, and rub her face against mine. All of my cats have always been extra snuggly when I am upset.

No, cats do not have a “duty” to soothe humans’ needs. I write this as someone who has lived with 8 beautiful cats over the past 45 years. They’re fascinating and lovely animals that can make wonderful companions.

But to me, nothing beats a dog for a sympathetic companion. Three dogs have graced my life and they have been some of my closest friends. They sense so much around them but they’re not primarily motivated by fight/flight instincts.

That’s my opinion and experience. Still, cats are great to have around.