Most people think of their cats as aloof, independent creatures that couldn’t care less about their owners. But the truth is, cats actually crave human interaction. And one of the ways they show their affection is by licking their owners.
So Why Does My Cat Lick Me?
Yes, it is perfectly normal for your cat to lick you. In fact, it’s a sign of affection. When your cat licks you, they are actually trying to communicate with you.
Cats communicate through body language and vocalizations, but licking is also a form of communication. When cats lick each other, it’s usually to groom each other or to show affection. But when a cat licks you, it could mean different things.
8 Reasons Why Your Cat Might Lick You
Here are some of the reasons why your cat might lick you:
1. They Like the Taste of Your Skin
Cats have very sensitive taste buds and they can actually taste the salt on your skin. Some people think that cats lick them because they are salty, but it’s actually because they enjoy the taste of our skin.
2. They Are Showing Affection
When cats lick each other, it’s a sign of affection. So when your cat licks you, it means they love you and they are trying to show you how much they care.
3. They Are Grooming You
Cats groom themselves by licking their fur and this is a way for them to remove any dirt or debris. When they lick you, they are actually grooming you and trying to keep you clean.
4. They Are Marking You as Theirs
When cats lick each other, they are actually leaving their scent on each other. This is how they mark their territory and it’s also how they claim ownership over each other. So when your cat licks you, they are actually marking you as their own.
5. They Are Trying to Tell You Something
Cats use licking as a form of communication and it could mean different things depending on the context. For example, if your cat licks your hand after you pet them, it could be their way of saying thank you. Or if they lick you when you’re sad or upset, it could be their way of trying to comfort you.
6. They Are Showing Submission
Cats are very hierarchy-driven creatures and they will often lick their superiors to show submission. So if your cat licks you, it could be their way of showing you that they respect and look up to you.
7. They Are Seeking attention
Cats are known for being independent creatures, but the truth is, they actually crave human interaction. So if your cat is constantly licking you, it could be because they are seeking attention and they want you to interact with them more.
8. They Are Stressed or Anxious
Cats can get stressed and anxious just like humans, and one of the ways they cope with this is by licking themselves. So if your cat is licking you more than usual, it could be because they are feeling stressed or anxious.
How to Respond When Your Cat Licks You?
The best way to respond when your cat licks you is to simply enjoy it and appreciate the fact that they are showing you affection. Of course, if you don’t like being licked, you can always gently redirect their attention elsewhere.
But overall, there is no need to worry if your cat licks you because it is perfectly normal behavior. In fact, it’s a sign that they enjoy your company and they are trying to show you how much they care.
What Should You Do If Your Cat Starts Licking You Excessively?
If your cat starts licking you excessively, it could be a sign that they are stressed or anxious. If this is the case, you should take them to the vet to get checked out.
The Bottom Line
Licking is perfectly normal behavior for cats and it’s actually a sign of affection. So there is no need to worry if your cat licks you. However, if they start licking you excessively, it could be a sign of stress or anxiety and you should take them to the vet.
