One reason your cat may lick you is because it’s a way of creating a social bond. From a young age a cat’s mother
would not only lick them as a way of grooming them, but also to show affection. Cats then replicate this behaviour with you as a way of showing their own affection – it simply comes naturally. This licking behaviour is not just exclusive between pet and owner. Cats often lick other cats and even other animals to show their affection. Do keep an eye out, however, when your cat begins to lick other cats or other animals, as not all cats or animals like to be licked. In some cases some other
cats or animals may retaliate or become anxious when a cat tries to lick them. Another reason your cat may lick you is because they are stressed or anxious. It is very common for cats and other animals to begin to lick things excessively if they are stressed. This can include licking you; if you think this may be the case it might be best to pay a visit to your local vet. If you think something has caused your cat to be stressed, try to identify the source of their worry in case you can
remove it. Cats like to mark their territory so other cats and animals know what is theirs. If a cat sees you as theirs, they may begin to lick you to mark you as part of their territory. This is to let other cats know who you belong to. Whilst this type of behaviour is completely normal it could lead to problems in the house if you have more than one cat or pet, so watch out for territorial behaviour. It can sometimes hurt when a cat licks you, especially if your cat does this excessively and in the same place. This is because of special back-facing barbs on your cat’s tongue called ‘papillae’. These barbs are made from the same material as your cat’s claws, which explains why their tongue feels like sandpaper. These barbs are important when your cat grooms themselves. The barbs help to remove dirt and debris from a cat’s coat. If the barbs weren’t sharp they would not be
able to pick up this dirt and a cat would not be able to keep himself or herself as clean.
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Forum Rules Copyright © 2001-2013 Pet of the Day.com Why does my cat lick my eyes and nose?Your cat licking your nose is a sure sign that your kitty loves you and feels safe and secure. Or if you have a kitten this may be a way that it relieves feelings of anxiety. What is this? Generally, if your cat is licking you on the nose for affection it would most likely want some affection back.
Why is my cat obsessed with licking my face?To show affection
For cats, licking is not only used as a grooming mechanism, but also to show affection. By licking you, other cats, or even other pets, your cat is creating a social bond. Part of this behavior may stem from kittenhood when your cat's mother licked to groom them, as well as to show care and affection.
Why do cats sniff your eyes?Your cat sniffs your eye because it may use the smell of your eye to identify you or show you love and affection. It may also be attempting to groom and care for you, or it may simply enjoy the salty smell that can come from the eyes, especially with tears.
Why do cats lick your tears?If they react to your crying, it'll be because of your sounds and face, not your tears. Some cats will lick their owner's tears, but this doesn't mean much. Cats lick you due to affection and to soothe you. Just because they lick your tears specifically doesn't mean that they understand you're sad.
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