Why Do Cats Lick Each Other? Understanding Feline Grooming Behavior

Cats are known for their fastidious grooming habits, and one of the most common behaviors that feline owners witness is cats licking each other. This may seem like a simple act, but in reality, it is a multifaceted behavior that plays a significant role

in cat socialization, communication, and overall well-being. If you’ve ever wondered why your cat licks another cat or even yourself, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll explore the many reasons why cats lick each other, from grooming rituals

to bonding behaviors and everything in between.

The Science Behind Cat Licking

Before delving into the different reasons cats lick each other, it’s important to understand the mechanics of a cat’s tongue and how it is designed for grooming. A cat’s tongue is covered with tiny, backward-facing barbs known as papillae. These papillae

help cats clean their fur by catching dirt, debris, and loose hair. Additionally, the rough texture of their tongues aids in stimulating blood circulation in their skin and helps to distribute natural oils across their fur, ensuring it stays sleek

and shiny.

Grooming is a fundamental part of feline life, and it’s not just about cleanliness—it’s deeply tied to their behavior and health.

1. Social Bonding and Affection

One of the most significant reasons why cats lick each other is social bonding. Cats are highly social creatures, especially those that live in multi-cat households or colonies. Licking is a form of positive reinforcement and an expression of affection

among cats. It’s akin to hugging or kissing in humans.

When one cat licks another, it strengthens their social connection. This behavior is particularly common between mother cats and their kittens, as the mother cat will groom her young to bond with them and keep them clean. In adult cats, licking can serve

as a form of social grooming, where cats groom one another to show trust and affection. Cats that lick each other in this way are often close companions, whether they are littermates, long-time friends, or bonded partners.

2. Grooming and Hygiene

While cats are meticulous self-groomers, they also rely on other cats for grooming in certain situations. In the wild or in multi-cat households, cats will often groom each other to maintain proper hygiene. This mutual grooming behavior is known as allogrooming.

It allows cats to reach areas that may be difficult for them to clean on their own, such as the back of their head or shoulders.

Cats groom each other not only to remove dirt and debris but also to help each other maintain proper coat condition. Grooming helps distribute natural oils throughout the fur, preventing matting and tangles. Additionally, it can aid in removing loose

fur that could otherwise lead to hairballs if ingested.

3. Comfort and Stress Relief

Licking can also serve as a form of comfort and stress relief for cats. In situations where cats feel anxious, threatened, or uncomfortable, they may engage in grooming behaviors to calm themselves. The rhythmic motion of licking releases endorphins,

which are natural mood-enhancers that help cats feel relaxed and secure.

When a cat licks another cat, it may be seeking reassurance or trying to comfort the other animal. This is especially common in cases where one cat may be feeling stressed, unwell, or anxious. The act of licking can help them feel safe and supported,

reducing the likelihood of behavioral issues related to stress.

4. Mimicking Maternal Behavior

In kittens, licking is an instinctual behavior they learn from their mothers. A mother cat licks her kittens not only to clean them but also to stimulate vital bodily functions, such as urination and defecation. As kittens grow older, they may continue

to lick each other as a way of mimicking the nurturing and care they received from their mother.

This instinct can carry over into adulthood, and adult cats may lick each other to express care and tenderness. The behavior can be especially common between cats that share a strong bond, such as littermates or cats that have grown up together. In these

cases, the licking can be seen as a continuation of the nurturing behavior learned in kittenhood.

5. Territorial Marking

Another important reason cats lick each other is for scent-marking purposes. Cats have scent glands located around their faces, paws, and under their tails. When they lick each other, they are not only cleaning one another but also exchanging scents.

This helps establish a sense of familiarity and reinforces their territorial boundaries.

In multi-cat households, licking can be a way for cats to mark each other as “part of the same group” or “family.” This behavior is particularly common among cats that share close relationships, as it helps create a unified scent profile that signals

cooperation and harmony within the group.

In the wild, scent-marking is an essential part of feline social structure. By licking each other, cats communicate their presence and establish territorial boundaries, helping to prevent conflicts with other animals.

6. Health and Medical Reasons

While licking is often a social behavior, there are instances when cats may lick each other for health-related reasons. For example, a cat may lick another if it notices an injury, infection, or skin condition. This could be an instinctual behavior to

help soothe or clean a wound. However, in some cases, excessive licking between cats can indicate that one of the cats has a medical issue that requires attention.

If a cat is licking another cat excessively or obsessively, it may be worth consulting a veterinarian. Excessive grooming or licking could be a sign of parasites, allergies, or other health problems. It’s important to monitor both cats closely to ensure

that the behavior isn’t due to an underlying medical condition.

7. Licking as a Sign of Dominance

While licking is often an affectionate and social behavior, it can sometimes be a sign of dominance. In some cases, one cat may lick another as a way of asserting its dominance or establishing a hierarchical relationship. This is more likely to happen

in cats that are still establishing their social structure within a household.

Dominant cats may use licking as a way to assert control or establish boundaries. While this behavior is less common than affectionate licking, it can still play a role in a cat’s social interactions, particularly when cats are learning to live together

or are adjusting to a new environment.

8. The Role of Licking in Play Behavior

Cats may also lick each other during play. Playful licking is often a sign of excitement or joy and can occur alongside other forms of feline play, such as chasing, pouncing, or wrestling. Licking in this context is typically harmless and is a part of

the playful interaction between cats.

Playful licking is often seen in younger cats or in cats that have formed strong bonds with one another. It can be a way for cats to express affection in a non-threatening, playful manner.

9. When Should You Be Concerned?

While most cat licking is harmless and part of natural behavior, there are times when excessive licking can indicate a problem. If a cat begins to lick another cat to the point where it causes irritation or injury to the skin, this could be a sign of

stress, anxiety, or even a medical condition.

If you notice that one cat is excessively licking another, it’s important to observe the behavior closely. Look for signs of over-grooming, such as bald patches, redness, or irritation on the skin. Additionally, monitor both cats for signs of stress or

illness, such as lethargy, changes in appetite, or unusual behavior. If you’re concerned, it’s always a good idea to consult a veterinarian for advice.

Conclusion

Cats lick each other for a variety of reasons, ranging from grooming and social bonding to comfort and stress relief. This complex behavior serves many important functions in a cat’s life, including maintaining hygiene, building relationships, and communicating

with other cats. Whether it’s a sign of affection, an instinctual behavior, or a way of marking territory, cat licking is an integral part of feline behavior that helps cats navigate their world and strengthen their bonds with one another.

As a cat owner, it’s important to understand these behaviors and recognize when they are normal and when they may require attention. With proper care and observation, you can ensure that your cats continue to enjoy healthy, happy lives together.