Cats are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors, and excessive licking is one that often raises questions among pet owners.
If your cat seems to spend a lot of time licking you, you might wonder: is it just affection, or is there something else going on? In this blog, we will explore why your cat might lick you excessively and offer insights on how to address it.
Is it normal for cats to excessively lick their pet parents?
It’s normal for cats to lick their owners to some extent. Cats lick as a way of bonding, grooming, and showing affection. However, when licking becomes excessive, it can raise concerns.
Occasional licking is normal for cats. However, if your cat licks often, it might mean something deeper. This could be tied to their feelings, health, or habits. Understanding why your cat licks you so much can help you respond appropriately.
What are the reasons behind my cat’s constant licking behavior?
There are different reasons your cat may lick you more often than usual. Here are six common causes:
1. Affection and Bonding
One of the most straightforward reasons cats lick is to show affection. Just like how they groom themselves or other cats, licking can be a way for them to bond with you. Research suggests an adult domestic feline can spend up to 8 per cent of their waking hours grooming their body with their tongue.
It’s a gesture of trust and love, signaling that they feel comfortable around you. If your cat licks you while sitting on your lap or cuddling with you, it’s likely their way of saying, “I care about you.”
Cats groom each other in the wild to build social bonds. When your cat licks you, they may see you as family
2. Seeking Attention
If your cat is licking you often, it could be their way of getting your attention.
Cats are smart, and they know that licking tends to trigger a reaction. Whether it’s to ask for more pets, food, or playtime, excessive licking can become a way for your cat to communicate their needs. If your cat licks you more when you are busy, they may want your attention. They might be reminding you to focus on them.
3. Stress or Anxiety
Cats can be sensitive creatures, and stress or anxiety can lead to excessive licking. Just like humans might bite their nails or pace when anxious, cats may lick to self-soothe when they’re feeling stressed.
Changes in their surroundings, like moving, meeting new people, or adding other pets, can stress your cat.
If your cat is licking you more frequently along with other signs of stress, like hiding or aggression, anxiety could be the cause. In such cases, your cat may be using licking as a coping mechanism.
If your cat’s environment has changed recently, you can try calming products like Feliway diffusers to help alleviate your cat’s stress.
4. Grooming Behavior
Excessive licking may also be part of your cat’s grooming ritual. Cats are naturally clean animals, and grooming helps them stay healthy.
However, if your cat begins to lick you more than usual, they could be treating you like another cat and attempting to groom you. In some cases, cats groom their owners as a way to reinforce the bond they share.
Grooming is usually safe for cats. However, it can become too much if your cat has a problem. This could be skin irritation or allergies. Consider high-quality cat food like Hill’s Science Diet or Royal Canin to support your cat’s overall health.
5. Health Issues
If your cat is licking excessively, it could be a sign of discomfort or a health issue. Health-related causes for excessive licking include allergies, skin infections, or even pain. For example, cats with flea infestations or fungal infections may lick themselves (or you) more to alleviate the irritation.
If you see your cat licking a certain spot more than usual, pay attention. Other signs to watch for include hair loss, red skin, or tiredness. If you notice any of these, it’s important to take your cat to the vet.
A vet can help identify any health problems that may be contributing to the behavior.
6. Habit or Boredom
Boredom can also lead to excessive licking. If your cat isn’t getting enough mental or physical stimulation, they may turn to licking as a way to fill the void.
Cats, particularly indoor ones, need regular playtime and mental challenges to stay engaged. Without these outlets, they may develop repetitive behaviors like licking.
In this case, excessive licking is not about love or worry. It is about finding something to do when they are bored.
Providing more interactive toys or engaging activities can help curb this behavior. Consider getting toys like PetSafe Interactive Toys to keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated.
Is It Safe To Let Your Cat Lick You?
Generally, letting your cat lick you is safe. Cat saliva has natural cleaning properties, and for the most part, it’s not harmful. However, there are a few things to consider before allowing your cat to lick you excessively:
- Allergies: Some people are allergic to cat saliva. If you experience itching, rashes, or swelling when your cat licks you, it could be a sign of an allergic reaction.
- Bacteria and Parasites: It is uncommon, but if your cat has oral infections, parasites, or fleas, their saliva can spread harmful bacteria. If your cat shows signs of infection or has parasites, do not let them lick you until they are treated.
- Hygiene: It’s usually safe for your cat to lick you. However, it’s a good idea to wash your hands afterward. This helps keep things clean, especially if your cat has been outside or around other animals.
How To Stop a Cat From Licking You
If your cat’s licking is excessive or bothersome, there are a few strategies you can try to reduce the behavior:
- Redirect Their Attention: Instead of scolding your cat, redirect their focus to something more engaging. Toys, interactive play, and treats can help shift their attention away from licking.
- Increase Playtime: Make sure your cat is getting enough mental and physical stimulation. Regular play sessions with toys and puzzle feeders will help keep your cat engaged and satisfied.
- Create a Routine: Cats are creatures of habit. Creating a routine for feeding, play, and cuddling can help reduce your cat’s need for attention through excessive licking.
- Address Anxiety: If stress or anxiety causes the licking, try calming aids like pheromone diffusers. You can also ask your vet about anxiety treatments. Reducing environmental stressors can also help ease the licking behavior.
- Use Safe Deterrents: Some owners use pet-safe deterrents like bitter sprays on their skin to discourage licking. However, this should be a last resort and only used if other methods fail.
- Visit the Vet: If the licking is linked to health issues, it’s crucial to take your cat to the vet. They can diagnose any underlying conditions and provide treatment options.
Final Thoughts
Excessive licking in cats can be caused by many factors, from affection and anxiety to boredom and health concerns. While some licking is normal, it’s essential to pay attention to the frequency and context of the behavior. By understanding why your cat licks you a lot, you can take steps to fix the problem. This will help both you and your cat stay happy and healthy.
FAQs
1. Why does my cat lick me and then bite me?
This behavior is typically a form of overstimulation. Your cat might begin by licking you out of affection but, if they feel overwhelmed, they might bite to signal they’ve had enough. It’s a common way for cats to express mixed emotions.
2. My cat licks me excessively and then seems to groom themselves more often. Is this normal?
Licking can be normal grooming behavior. However, if it becomes excessive or is paired with skin irritation or hair loss, visit the vet. This will help rule out any medical problems.
3. How can I tell if my cat’s licking is due to health problems?
If your cat is licking certain areas more often, it could be a health problem. Look for signs like hair loss, redness, or pain. In such cases, it’s best to take your cat to the vet for a check-up.