Ever watched your cats curl up together and start licking each other like a spa day gone furry? You’re not alone. Many cat owners wonder, "Why do cats lick each other?" Is it love? Is it hygiene? Or something deeper in their mysterious feline world?
Well, get ready—because what might look like innocent grooming is actually a complex language of love, trust, and instinct. In this article, we’ll decode the truth behind those tender licks and what they really mean for your cat’s emotional and social life.
It’s Not Just Cleaning: The Real Reasons Cats Lick Each Other
Let’s get one thing out of the way: yes, cats lick to clean. But that’s only scratching the surface—literally and figuratively. Licking between cats is a layered behavior known as allogrooming, and it goes way beyond hygiene.
1. Strengthening Social Bonds
Imagine cats licking each other like friends sharing secrets. That’s the kind of bond licking helps build. In cat colonies or multi-cat households, mutual grooming is a way to say: “You’re part of my family.” It’s a warm, fuzzy trust fall—only with tongues.
When your cats groom each other, they’re not just keeping clean. They’re reinforcing their emotional connection and maintaining peace in their little feline society.
2. Marking Territory (Yes, Really)
Cats have scent glands in their mouths. So, when they lick each other, they’re also spreading familiar scents. It’s like saying, “You smell like home.” This scent-sharing helps reduce stress and reminds them that they’re part of the same group.
Think of it as a friendship bracelet—but with spit.
3. Comforting Each Other
Ever had a bad day and needed a hug? Cats do that too—in their own way. Licking can be a sign of comfort and nurturing, especially if one cat is feeling anxious, sick, or just plain needy.
This behavior is rooted in kittenhood. Mama cats lick their babies constantly—not just to clean, but to soothe and stimulate them. As adults, cats carry that nurturing instinct forward by licking others they care about.
Do All Cats Lick Each Other? Not Always. Here's Why
Not every cat will engage in this behavior. If you have two cats that don’t lick each other, don’t worry—it doesn’t mean they hate each other.
1. Personality Differences Matter
Just like people, cats have unique personalities. One might be the nurturing type, while the other prefers to keep their distance. Some cats are introverts who value space, while others are social butterflies licking everyone in sight.
2. Hierarchy and Roles
In multi-cat groups, licking often follows a social structure. Typically, the dominant cat will groom the more submissive one. It’s a gentle way of saying, “I’m the boss, but I care.”
So, if only one cat does the licking, it could be part of this unspoken agreement.
3. Health or Stress Issues
If a previously affectionate cat suddenly stops licking others, something could be wrong. Cats are masters at hiding illness, and changes in grooming behavior might be an early red flag.
When Licking Turns to Fighting: The Grooming Trap
Here’s a twist: sometimes licking leads to biting or full-on wrestling. You might see one cat licking the other, only for things to spiral into a mini battle.
Why?
Because licking can escalate into play or even annoyance. One cat might groom a little too enthusiastically, or the other just isn’t in the mood. It’s all normal, as long as things don’t get aggressive.
Is Your Cat Licking You Instead? That Means Something Too
Ever felt that rough little tongue on your hand, face, or even your hair? That’s not random—it’s your cat treating you like family.
When cats lick their humans, they’re trying to groom you, bond with you, or show affection. It’s the ultimate compliment—even if it’s a bit slobbery.
Conclusion: Why Do Cats Lick Each Other? It's More Than Just Cleanliness
So, why do cats lick each other? It’s about love, comfort, social structure, and instinct. These little grooming sessions are like feline heart-to-hearts—a way of showing care without meowing a word.
Next time you catch your cats in a licking session, don’t just see it as cleaning—see it as an emotional exchange. They're saying, “You're mine, and I’ve got your back.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why do cats lick each other and then fight?
Licking can start as bonding or grooming, but if one cat gets overstimulated or annoyed, it might lead to biting or play-fighting. It’s usually harmless unless it turns aggressive.
2. Do cats only lick each other if they like each other?
Mostly, yes. Licking is a strong sign of affection and trust. If your cats lick each other, they’re probably very close. But in some cases, it can also be a dominance display.
3. Is it okay if my cats don’t lick each other?
Absolutely. Not all cats are social groomers. As long as they’re getting along and not showing signs of stress, it’s perfectly fine.
4. Should I separate my cats if they lick then fight?
Not unless it becomes aggressive or one cat seems distressed. Occasional squabbles after grooming are normal. Watch their body language to gauge when to intervene.
5. Can I encourage my cats to bond more through grooming?
You can encourage bonding with positive interactions, shared playtime, and calm environments. While you can’t force grooming, building trust will increase the chance they groom each other naturally.
Call to Action
Did you learn something new about your cats today? 🐾 Share your thoughts or cute grooming stories in the comments! And if you found this article helpful, share it with a fellow cat lover—because every cat deserves to be understood.
Want to keep learning about your feline friend’s behavior? Check out more articles on our blog for expert insights and fun facts!