Why Do Cats Lick You?

Cats spend a significant portion of their waking hours grooming themselves, and licking is a natural part of their behavior. However, when your feline friend licks you, it’s not always for grooming. Understanding why cats engage in this behavior can help you strengthen your bond and address any concerns. Let’s explore the reasons behind this behavior.

Expressing Affection

When cats lick, they often show affection. This behavior, called affiliative grooming, strengthens social bonds. Mother cats groom their kittens, and cats groom each other to foster connections. When your cat licks you, they may be expressing their love and nurturing the relationship.

Seeking Attention

Cats quickly learn that licking gets your attention. Whether you’ve responded by petting, talking, or interacting with them, they associate licking with a reward. This encourages them to continue this behavior when they want you to notice them.

Marking You as Part of Their Group

Cats communicate by marking objects and beings with their scent. A mother cat licks her kittens to create a shared group scent. Similarly, when your cat licks you, they may be identifying you as a member of their group.

Displaying Kitten Behavior

Kittens knead and suckle when nursing. Cats that were weaned too early might lick you as a comforting behavior reminiscent of nursing. They may also knead and purr while licking, further emphasizing this connection.

Exploring Your Taste

Your cat may find your skin or hair intriguing due to scents from lotions, shampoos, or other products. While this curiosity is harmless in small doses, some substances can be toxic to cats. Avoid letting your cat lick you after applying topical products, and consult your veterinarian about safe alternatives.

Responding to Anxiety

Licking can serve as a displacement behavior when cats feel stressed. While stress often leads to excessive self-grooming, some cats may redirect their licking toward you. Identify possible triggers, such as loud noises or visitors, and address your cat’s anxiety to prevent compulsive licking.

Addressing Medical Concerns

In some cases, excessive licking can indicate an underlying medical issue. Pain, discomfort, or nausea might drive your cat to lick excessively. If this behavior persists or appears suddenly, schedule a veterinary check-up.

Why Does a Cat’s Tongue Feel Rough?

A cat’s tongue feels rough due to tiny, firm, backward-facing spines called papillae. These spines help remove dirt and loose fur while distributing saliva across their coat to regulate body temperature.

Is It Safe to Let Your Cat Lick You?

Allowing your cat to lick you is generally safe, but there are risks. Cats carry bacteria in their mouths that could cause infections if they lick open wounds. Immunocompromised individuals should take extra precautions. Additionally, avoid letting cats lick your face or areas where you’ve applied products that could harm them.

How to Discourage Your Cat from Licking

If your cat’s licking becomes excessive or uncomfortable, follow these steps to reduce the behavior:

1. Cover Your Skin: Wear long sleeves or place a towel over your lap during interactions.
2. Ignore the Licking: If your cat licks to get attention, stop engaging and walk away. Consistent redirection will teach your cat that licking is not effective.
3. Provide Alternatives: Offer toys or food puzzles to shift their focus. Reward them when they engage with these items.
4. Enhance Their Environment: Keep your cat entertained with toys, perches, and regular play sessions.

If the licking continues despite these efforts, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical or behavioral issues.

Common Questions

Why Does My Cat Lick My Face?

Cats may lick your face to express affection, seek attention, or relieve anxiety. If the behavior becomes excessive, seek advice from your veterinarian.

Why Does My Cat Lick Me and Then Bite Me?

Cats may bite after licking due to overstimulation, irritation, or discomfort. Observe their body language and consult a vet to rule out any medical concerns.

References

• Eckstein RA and Hart BJ. (2000). The organization and control of grooming in cats. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 68(2), 131-140.
• Noel AC and Hu DL. (2018). Cats use hollow papillae to wick saliva into fur. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, doi:10.1073/pnas.1809544115.
• Landsberg GM, Hunthausen W, Ackerman L. (2013). Behavior Problems of the Dog and Cat. 3rd Edition. Saunders.