So I have 2 rescue cats. The eldest Ellie is rather aloof and may occasional rub against your leg but will not under any circumstances come for cuddles. We are the Hooman slaves who feed her and that's it.
My younger cat Ivy is very different. And I have noticed that she is at her most affectionate when my anxiety is particularly bad. She likes a stroke but when I am very anxious she makes a bee-line for me and will not leave me alone. She sits on my shoulder, lays in my arms, licks my face, meows constantly, literally all over me. I've got to say she really does calm me down when it's bad and then once I'm settled she jumps down and settles in her bed.
Do you think it's possible she is either sensing my distress or maybe even the increase in stress hormone? Or is she just after a cuddle and it's all just coincidence?
Either way I think this makes her a very special little cat.