They know....

[Coldemort]

I've been going through a tough time with my mental health lately and my usual aloof cat with bags of tortitude has been the most loving, affectionate, paddy old girl. I've had more attention cant even wee in peace in the last few weeks than the previous 7 years.
They know when something up dont they?

Sorry you've been struggling, but lovely to hear your girl has been a comfort. My boy is generally not the empathetic type, but occasionally puts a paw on my arm when I need it most

She's been an absolute bloody lifesaver. Although shes padded at least 3 dresses to destruction...
The paw on the arm sounds like a feline version of me! 'I want to make sure your ok but not comfortable with open displays of affection'

Shamelessly posting pic as she's boootiful (as I tell her daily so she might be bugging it up for the camera)

Ah, she's gorgeous! Here's my boy (any excuse!). Communing with cats is the best

My standoffish cat has been following me to the toilet after dark poking his head through my knicker leg to make me laugh

My ginger blob doesn't do miserable mum. She finds all sorts of places away from me during the day if I'm not happy. At night she ALWAYS sleeps with me. If she does decide to sit next to me during the day I usually rest my hand on her because her fur is soothing.

I refer to my Boycat as my support pet, as sitting next to him with my hands buried in his belly fur is possibly the most calming and uplifting thing in my life. It's a mutual relationship, as he is a little "special needs" (vet definition on his mental capabilities) and uses me as his support too - though it took him a good couple of years to trust me.

Girlcat can be just as calming too, with our evening cuddles watching the TV together.