When you live with a cat, you discover how amazing they are as pets. With their unique character, cats show us their affection in varied and sometimes surprising ways. If you have ever asked yourself “ why does my cat lick me? ”, you are in the right place to find out. Let’s learn more about this curious and endearing behavior.
Why do cats lick?
Surely you have wondered more than once why, suddenly, your cat goes crazy licking you … These outbursts of tenderness and affection have a reason! But be careful, it is not always the same. Cats communicate continuously with us, but they do not do it with words, but with their own body language . Therefore, it is important to know it in order to understand their behavior and be able to communicate better with them.
If you want to become an expert in understanding your cat, don’t miss our post on cat language . You’ll be surprised by everything you can learn!
What does it mean when your cat licks you?
Licking is a very important form of feline communication. Here we explain each of the meanings it can have.
My cat licks me as a sign of affection
Yes, as you probably thought, most of the time, your cat licks you to express his affection . It is his way of showing that he loves you and that he feels happy with you. Just like when they lick each other or their kittens, licking you is a way of telling you that you are his family. When your cat licks you, he is reinforcing the bond he has with you, showing you that he considers you part of his close group.
If you want to discover more ways in which your cat shows you its love, don’t miss our post on The 10 gestures with which your cat says “I love you” . You will love to know them all!
My cat licks me to socialize
Yes, it’s as simple as socialization. Licking is one of the ways cats interact with people and other animals. This is how they show their interest in you and transmit trust and security. You’ve probably seen cats lick each other as a sign of affection and, at other times, to help clean areas they can’t reach themselves.
My cat licks me for protection
Cats lick their kittens to protect them. By cleaning them with their tongue, they are not only keeping them clean, but they are also removing bacteria and possible parasites from their body. If your cat is licking you, they could be trying to protect you in the same way, cleaning you to remove any impurities that may be on your skin. This protective behavior indicates that your cat wants to keep you safe and healthy.
My cat licks me when he’s playing
Licking and gentle biting are part of play for cats. As long as they bite you gently, you don’t have to worry or scold them, as this is their way of having fun and they don’t mean to hurt you.
However, if your cat licks you and then bites you hard , and you notice that his fur is ruffled, this could be a sign that he is uncomfortable or is acting aggressively. Be patient if this happens in the first few months of living together and teach him not to act like this.
To keep your cat entertained and channel its energy in a positive way, you can explore our selection of cat toys . Your feline will thank you!
My cat licks me to clean me
Licking is a grooming behavior . Just as they lick themselves to clean themselves, remove dirt, and remove loose hair, they also lick other cats and their humans. But they don’t do it with just anyone; they need to have a strong bond to do it.
My cat licks me because he is stressed
Licking isn’t always related to something positive or to displays of affection. When cats are nervous or experiencing anxiety , they may feel the need to compulsively lick . This can include licking themselves, a rug, a piece of furniture, a toy, or even you. This compulsive licking is a way for them to relieve their stress.
Try to identify what may be causing your cat’s anxiety , such as changes in their environment, loud noises, or the arrival of new animals or people in the house, and take steps to reduce their stress. There are products such as cat tranquilizers and other remedies that can help calm your feline. Consult your veterinarian to find the best option for your cat.
My cat licks me to mark his territory
Cats also lick to mark their territory and to exchange scents. Your cat has probably licked your fingers after you’ve been cooking or touching aromatic plants. By licking you, they are leaving their scent on you, marking you as part of their territory. This territorial behavior shows that your cat feels like they own their space and include you in it.
My cat licks my face: is this normal?
Yes, it’s completely normal for your cat to lick your face. This behavior is usually a sign of affection and an attempt to strengthen the bond between the two of you. Licking your face can be a way of telling you that they love and trust you. It can also be a way of seeking your attention or simply enjoying your company up close and personal.
What does it mean when a cat licks your hands?
Hand licking can be a form of exploration and socialization. Your hands have many interesting smells that your cat may want to investigate. Additionally, licking your hands can be a way for your cat to show affection and reinforce the bond he has with you. It can also be a way for him to scent mark you, showing that he considers you part of his territory.
Why does my cat lick me and purr?
When your cat licks you and purrs at the same time , they are showing a great deal of affection and comfort. Purring is a sound that cats make when they are relaxed and content, and combining it with licking is a clear sign that your cat feels happy and secure with you.
My cat scratches and licks himself a lot: should I be worried?
If you notice your cat scratching and licking excessively , it could be a sign of a health problem, such as allergies, parasites, or skin infections. It’s important to note whether this behavior is accompanied by other symptoms, such as hair loss, redness of the skin, or changes in appetite. If you suspect something is wrong, consult your veterinarian to rule out any health problems and receive appropriate treatment.
