Table of Contents
Introduction
10 Reasons Why Cats Lick You
When Is It a Problem?
5 Ways to Manage or Redirect licking Behavior
Conclusion
Cats are known for their quirky and endearing behaviors, and licking their human companions is one of the most puzzling. While cats spend a significant portion of their time grooming themselves—around 8% of their waking hours—it’s not uncommon for them to redirect this behavior toward you. So, why do cats lick you?
10 Reasons Why Cats Lick You
# 1.Expression of Affection
One of the most common interpretations of cat licking is that it’s a sign of affection. Cats engage in allogrooming—the grooming of other cats—as a way to bond with their social group. By licking you, your cat may be treating you as part of their family. When one cat grooms another, it shows trust and comfort, indicating a strong bond. Cats associate licking with caring as it is a behaviour learned from their mothers who groom their kittens from birth.
# 2. Seeking Attention
Cats are highly observant and learn what behaviours elicit responses from their owners. If licking has historically led to attention, whether through petting, talking, or cuddling, your cat may use licking as a way to get your focus.
When a cat licks you while meowing or kneading your lap, it’s typically a sign of attention-seeking behaviour. Your feline may want you to pet them immediately or, more commonly, they might be hinting that it’s time for food or a treat. They might also be simply trying to communicate with you.
# 3. Marking Their Territory
Cats are territorial creatures. By licking you, they may be transferring their scent as a form of marking. This is especially common in cats that also rub against you or knead you, as these behaviours reinforce their sense of ownership.
In the wild, licking serves as a way for cats to show recognition and mark their territory. Other cats may even avoid getting too close if your skin carries your cat’s scent, signalling to them to stay away.
# 4. Kitten-like Behaviour
Cats that were weaned too early may exhibit neotenic behaviours, such as licking, kneading, or suckling, as a way to recreate the comfort they experienced during nursing. This can explain why your cat licks you while purring or kneading.
# 5. Curiosity About Your Taste
Your cat might simply be intrigued by how you taste. Human skin can carry the scent of lotions, shampoos, or even food residue, which may attract your cat. Additionally, human sweat also contains sugar and salts that cats may find appealing.
However you should avoid letting your cat lick you after applying a topical product (creams, hormone patches, or sprays like sunscreen and bug spray), as some ingredients may be toxic to them.
# 6. Stress or Anxiety Relief
Licking can act as a displacement behaviour for cats, helping them self-soothe when they feel anxious. While it’s more common for stressed cats to excessively groom themselves, some may redirect this behaviour toward you.
If you’ve recently moved to a new home or your cat has experienced a change in their environment, you might notice them licking you more often. This type of licking is generally not a concern unless it becomes excessive, leading to raw skin or bald patches.
To reduce your cat’s anxiety, you should try creating an engaging and stimulating environment with toys, scratching posts, and climbing areas. Maintaining a consistent routine is also key, along with daily playtime and providing quiet spaces, such as a cat tree, where your cat can feel safe and secure.
# 7 Possible Medical issues
Licking may signal an underlying medical issue, such as nausea, discomfort, or pain. If your cat’s licking behaviour increases suddenly or becomes obsessive, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to rule out health problems.
# 8. Cleaning and Grooming
Cats’ tongues are covered with tiny, hook-like barbs that make them ideal for grooming their fur, acting like a natural brush. This unique feature also helps them remove parasites, such as fleas. Licking is an important grooming behaviour, and sometimes cats will extend this to other cats in a practice known as allogrooming. It’s only natural that they may also lick their human owners, especially those with whom they share a close bond.
# 9. To get you to leave them alone
Your cat may become irritated by certain behaviours like holding or petting them too much. In response, they might start licking you as a way to push you away. It’s important to pay attention because the licking is likely a warning, and if ignored, it could lead to a bite or scratch.
# 10. Positive Re-enforcement
At times, your cat’s behaviour is influenced by positive reinforcement. For example, when your cat licks you, their brain releases endorphins, creating a pleasurable sensation that may encourage them to lick you more.
Similarly, if you respond warmly and affectionately when your cat licks you, you are reinforcing the behaviour, making it more likely they will continue to lick you in the future.
When Is It a Problem?
While usually harmless, there are scenarios where it may become problematic:
– Excessive Licking: This could indicate anxiety, boredom, or a compulsive disorder.
– Hygiene Risks: Cats carry bacteria in their mouths that may cause infections if they lick open wounds.
– Toxic Substances: Cats might ingest harmful ingredients or medications applied to your skin
5 Ways to Manage or Redirect Licking Behaviour
1. Redirect Attention: Offer toys, food puzzles, or interactive play sessions to keep your cat entertained.
2. Ignore the Behaviour: Avoid rewarding licking with attention. Instead, gently direct your cat’s focus elsewhere.
3. Provide Enrichment: Ensure your cat has sufficient mental and physical stimulation, such as climbing structures, scratching posts, and daily playtime.
4. Consult a Veterinarian: If licking becomes obsessive, you should seek professional advice to rule out medical or emotional concerns.
5. Distract your cat with a tasty treat: Offering your cat a tasty treat can help divert their attention and stop them from licking you. However, giving too many treats can negatively impact their health. Additionally, relying on treats could teach your cat to associate licking you with getting a reward, potentially encouraging more licking in the future!
Conclusion
So, “why do cats lick you?” Whether it’s to show affection or simply because they’re curious about your taste, this behaviour is a natural part of feline communication. Understanding the reasons behind licking can deepen your bond with your cat and help you address any underlying issues if they arise. Remember, if the licking becomes excessive or problematic; don’t hesitate to consult a veterinarian. Your furry friend’s quirky behaviour is just one of the many ways they show their unique personality and affection.
About the author
Marshall Takundwa is a writer at The PetConomist. He writes about the pet and veterinary industry and creates pet related content. Visit www.thepetconomist.com an exciting blog and newsletter helping pet parents to find quality pet products and services.
