Read time: 1.5 mins
Adorably affectionate despite their rough tongues, when a cat decides to include you in their grooming regime, it can leave you wondering why? Is it because, in their opinion, we stink or is it just a simple sign of their love. Why is it they feel the need to give you the roughest of baths, sweet though it may be, why does your cat lick you?
The sandpaper shower despite what you might think isn’t actually because they think you need a good clean, there are actually a few reasons why your cat might lick you and most of them are pretty darn sweet.
Sharing their smell
When cats are super bonded to their humans, they feel inclined to share their scent. Those little licks are actually a way of transferring saliva, and therefore their own smell, onto you to make sure everyone around knows exactly who you belong to. This is behaviour learnt between other cats to identify their family and which cats are safe by sniffing. Their kisses signify you’re part of their fam.
Bonding
If they do identify you as part of their family, then grooming you is a simple way to strengthen your bond. It is a sign of affection and a way of making friends in the cat world, so actually, maybe they do love us back and this is their own little way of showing it.
Anxiety
As well as the cute stuff, cats can also excessively lick if they’re a little on the stressed side. If your cat seems a little obsessive with the licks lately, don’t hesitate to call your vet just to be sure they’re not overly anxious. Watch out for other signs they could be stressed alongside the licking. Body language like tail swishing and flattened back ears may also be a giveaway that they’re a little uncomfortable.
Endorphins
Just how we humans feel good from a rush of endorphins after exercise, our kitties can get the exact same buzz from licking. The release of happy hormones in their brain whilst grooming gives them a natural high, so it’s no surprise they may want to keep up the licks to keep them in a beautiful mood.
Don’t be inclined to return the favour though. As much as they love to lick, it’s unlikely those furballs will appreciate being on the receiving end, so stick to the simple brush when it comes to grooming the floofs. No need for human hairballs!
