Cats may seem aloof and distant, but that’s only because they like to have their own space. That usually means bonding with a cat takes time and consistent effort.
Start by feeding your cat and petting them at the same time. This can associate positive feelings within our cat as it tries to figure out why you keep touching it while it’s trying to eat.
You can also try bird watching with your cat by just sitting with your cat and staring out a window together. That way if others see you with your cat, they’ll think at least one of you has lost their mind and it probably won’t be the cat.