When you’re crushing hard on a Cancer, it can sometimes feel like it’s impossible to crack them out of their tough shell.
That can make texting difficult. It’s hard enough to text someone you like without the added challenge of getting through that extra layer. Of course, it’s not impossible. Most of the time, captivating a Cancer is less about grabbing their attention in an obvious way, and more about noticing what they do for you and what your relationship means as a whole.
And since Cancers rarely text first, here are 15 texts you can send them to get your conversation started.
‘I keep thinking about that story you told me.’
Cancers are the sign of memory and sentiment, and they hold on to the little moments that other people forget. So when you bring up something they shared, it shows them that you were really listening.
It’s a sweet way to start a conversation with someone who rarely texts first, and it gives them an easy opening to keep telling you more. Don’t be surprised if they open up a little further once they see how much you remembered.
‘Are you kidding me? You really are the sweetest.’
If you notice a Cancer’s random act of kindness, do not let it go unmentioned. Cancers are a sign that hides their softness until you get to know them, so if you catch a glimpse of it, don’t be afraid to compliment them and bring that aspect out of them early.
They love being appreciated for their hearts, and the more comfortable they feel with you early on, the more likely it is that you’ll soon get to see the realthem. Reward their kindness and care, and you’re likely to get their fondness and attention in return.
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‘Be honest: are you secretly an amazing cook?’
Cancers love to take care of the people they care about, and for many of them, that means food. Whether it’s a treasured family recipe or a perfectly baked batch of cookies, there’s a good chance your crush has a signature dish they’re proud of.
Asking about it is a low-pressure way to get them talking about something they love. Even better, it might just lead to an invitation to try something they’ve made.
‘Thanks for making me feel comfortable.’
Has your Cancer crush gone above and beyond recently to make you feel like you belong? The sign is allabout home and family, and they’ll go out of their ways to make others feel at home, because that’s how they’d want others to treat them.
They’re also hardly recognized for this, so let them know that you see the work they’re doing and that you welcome it. The fact that they did this for you means there are probably already warm feelings involved, so see if you can nurture them into something more.
Also read about: 9 Big Things to Understand About Your Cancer Zodiac Crush
‘What’s your favorite way to spend a night in?’
Cancer is a homebody at heart, and there’s nothing they love more than a cozy evening with their favorite blanket, show or comfort snack. Asking about their ideal night shows that you care about what makes them feel relaxed, not just what they do for fun.
Their answer will tell you a lot about them, and it might give you the perfect idea for a low-key hangout you can plan together.
‘Sending good vibes your way today. I hope it’s a great one.’
Cancers are the nurturers of the zodiac, but they don’t always get the same care in return. A simple, thoughtful check-in with no strings attached can make their whole day.
Because they tend to be sensitive to how others feel, they’ll notice that you’re sincere. Keep it light and genuine, and you might get a warm, heartfelt reply.
‘Letting you know that if you need to talk about anything, I am all ears.’
Cancers are known for experiencing mood swings, but we like to think the sign as one that just experiences their emotions a bit more deeply and strongly than others. If the Cancer in your life has been a little off lately, extend a hand and let them know that you’re more than happy to hear them out.
They may be closed off at first, but continue to show that you care and that you’re open, and if it’s meant to be, they’ll soon start spilling it allto you.
Also read about: What You Should NEVER Do Around Your Cancer Crush
‘Does anyone else get nostalgic about [childhood show]? Tell me I’m not the only one.’
Nothing gets a Cancer talking like a trip down memory lane. The sign is deeply sentimental, so a text about a favorite childhood cartoon, a snack from elementary school or the song that defined a summer is guaranteed to spark a conversation.
Swap in something you truly love, and you’ll probably find that they have just as many stories to share. Bonding over shared memories makes you feel like old friends, which is exactly how a Cancer likes to feel.
‘You seem like you give good advice. Could you help me with…’
Above all things, Cancers deal with trust. Some have earned a bit of a bad reputation for being either overly emotional or overly cold, but Cancers don’t share all of themselves except with those they fully trust, and you can earn theirs by confiding in them.
Be open to sharing with them and then learning from them, and then actually listen to their advice and see where it takes you. That’s the key to building faith and confidence with them.
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‘Your family sounds amazing. Tell me more about them.’
Family is everything to Cancer, so showing interest in the people they love is a surefire way into their heart. Whether it’s a funny story about their siblings or a tradition they look forward to every year, they’ll light up when they get to talk about it.
Listen closely and ask follow-up questions. You’ll learn what matters most to them, and they’ll appreciate that you care about more than the surface-level stuff.
‘So, [friend name] told me you’re into [subject]?’
This one seems a bit vague, but bear with us. Often, the key to a Cancer’s heart is to befriend their inner circle. Understand the types of people they value, and learn about your friend in the process.
Becoming emotionally close to a Cancer before you date them can make all the difference in your relationship, and chances are that you’ll make some brilliant new friends along the way.
‘No rush, but I’d love to get to know the real you.’
Cancers can take time to come out of their shells, and pressure usually makes them retreat even further. A text that gently lets them know there’s no deadline can be a huge relief.
It also tells them you’re interested in their true self, not just the version they show everyone else. Be patient, stay consistent and let them open up at their own pace.
Also read about: How to Know If Your Cancer Zodiac Crush Likes You Back
‘So how do you feel about you and me?’
Sometimes, it doesn’t cut it to beat around the bush any longer, and you just need to come out and say how you feel—or at least start asking some questions to find out how the other person feels about you.
Cancer appreciates when people are direct with them and tell them exactly what they’re thinking, so if you want to shoot your shot, just do it! However, be as honest as you are straightforward. Don’t mislead them about yourself in any way, because the second they sense the deception, you’ll be through.
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‘I love how loyal you are to the people you care about.’
Loyalty is one of Cancer’s greatest strengths, and they don’t always hear how much it’s appreciated. A heartfelt compliment on the way they show up for their friends and family will mean more to them than any flashy line.
It also shows that you notice the little things they do, which is exactly what they want from someone special. Don’t be surprised if you get a very sweet message in return.
Also read about: 8 Big Tips for Successfully Dating a Cancer Zodiac Sign
‘I need a good cry. Any movie recs?’
This one appeals to the emotional side of Cancer. On the inside, they’re all big softies who experience the full range of their emotions, and chances are that your Cancer crush knows dozens of films that’ll bring on the waterworks.
A more inquisitive Cancer will probably also ask you what you’re going through, which is an unusual way to start a conversation, but it works nonetheless.
Texting a Cancer Crush: Your Questions, Answered
What should you text a Cancer crush?
Start with something warm and sincere. Compliment their kindness, ask about their family or favorite comfort food, or bring up a memory they shared. Cancers respond best to messages that feel personal, not generic.
Do Cancers text first?
Cancers rarely text first, so don’t take it personally if you’re always the one to start the conversation. They tend to be cautious about opening up, and a gentle, low-pressure message from you can be just the nudge they need.
How do you get a Cancer to open up over text?
Build trust. Cancers share their feelings with the people they feel safe around, so be patient, listen closely and share a little about yourself, too. Checking in on how they’re doing, with no strings attached, goes a long way.
What turns a Cancer off over text?
Dishonesty and pressure are the biggest ones. Cancers can sense when someone isn’t being genuine, so be honest about how you feel and let them go at their own pace.
How can you tell a Cancer likes you over text?
Look for signs that they’re letting their guard down. A Cancer who’s interested may share personal stories, ask you for advice, remember small details about you or start texting first. For this sign, opening up is a big deal.
Also read about: These Zodiac Signs Are the Most (and Least) Compatible With Cancer and Everything You Wanted to Know About the Cancer Zodiac Sign
If you’re crushing on a Cancer, you’re in good company. Read about our fave Cancer celebrities—and why we want to be just like them.
