When cats groom each other, also called allogrooming, they’re establishing and strengthening their bonds. If you’re honored with a lick from your cat, that’s also their way of reaching out and growing closer with you.
Your cat isn’t just marking their territory when they lick you. Transferring their scent onto you also makes you a part of their space, meaning that they trust you. [3] X Research source Your cat also rubs their head on you to mark their territory. Their face contains pheromones, or scent-based chemicals, that they transfer onto you so you smell familiar to them.
If your cat has ever brought you a dead mouse, they weren’t just giving you a present. They’re trying to teach you something too! Leaving a dead bug or mouse is your cat’s way of teaching you how to hunt.
Some topical medical ointments, like hormone creams and steroids, can be dangerous for your cat to lick. If you use any topical medical ointments, talk to your vet to see if they are a concern for your cat.
When this licking happens, look for the trigger that’s stressing out your cat. Simply remove the trigger or your cat from the situation to keep them calm. If your cat continues to feel stressed, their self-soothing licking can sometimes turn into compulsive behavior. Over the counter products like Feliway and Zylkene can help reduce stress-related licking. However, if your cat continues to excessively lick, take them to the vet. [9] X Research source To help your cat feel less stressed in your home, give them spaces that they feel secure in, like a cat tower or cat cave. Also make sure to give them affection and play with them for at least 15 minutes a day.
Your cat might be experiencing some nausea or dealing with a pesky internal issue like inflammatory bowel disease. If you’re worried about your cat’s health, your vet can help you get to the bottom of the issue.
Giving your cat a variety of toys is a great way to distract them and keep them stimulated. Keep 1 to 2 toys out at a time from your collection and rotate them so your cat stays interested and excited. Puzzle feeders are another great way to redirect your cat’s attention and give them a fun, mental task to solve.
Do not yell or use punishments like spray bottles when you’re teaching your cat not to lick. This can damage your relationship with your cat because they’ll associate their discomfort with you.
Vets recommend against letting your cat lick your face, too. Your face can also be vulnerable to the bacteria in your cat’s mouth.
It might come to no surprise that cats’ tongues are perfected for grooming. They spend almost 25% of their day cleaning their fur!
