Cats have many endearing behaviors that sometimes surprise us. Though we might think dogs are the resident licking champions, any Cat Parent knows cats lick, too! Here are a few reasons why your cat may lick, and how you can intervene if it becomes a nuisance.
What Does It Mean When A Cat Licks You?
When a cat licks you, it’s usually a form of communication. There isn’t one single reason behind it — it could be a mix of instinct, emotions, and learned behavior.
Your Cat Is Showing Affection
Cats lick each other to seal their bond. If your cat licks you once or twice like a kiss, it could be a way they’re showing affection. It’s a sign they’re comfortable with you and love you.
Your Cat Is “Grooming” You
If your cat licks you over and over again, it might mean they’re attempting to teach you how to groom yourself (don’t take it personally!). Tongue baths are something kittens learn from their mothers as a way to get clean or find comfort.
Your Cat Is Scent-Marking You
While it’s common for cats to mark their territory by urinating on things, licking also distributes pheromones to indicate “I want everyone to know this is mine.” If your feline friend licks you, they may be marking you as part of their pack. If other cats sometimes shy away from you, it’s possible they smell that you belong to another cat.
Your Cat Is Curious About Your Smell or Taste
Your cat may lick your hair because they like a particular taste or scent in it, but try not to encourage this behavior — human hair and hair products can be dangerous for cats.
Your Cat Is Seeking Attention
Sometimes it’s as simple as trying to get your attention. Your cat might have picked up on the fact that licking you gets an instant reaction, and cats crave attention (when they’re in the mood for it).
Your Cat Is Self-Soothing
Licking can be very comforting for cats, so they might do it when they’re feeling anxious, stressed, or want to relax. Licking releases hormones called endorphins, which makes your cat feel happy.
How to Stop A Cat From Licking You
Though your cat may be trying to comfort you, sometimes being licked may feel uncomfortable or even hurt. This is because a cat’s tongue has tiny, backward-facing barbs called papillae. Papillae move through a cat’s fur like a comb when they lick — they have about the same hardness as human fingernails, which can make their tongues feel like sandpaper.
To discourage your cat from licking you:
- Don’t talk, pet, or engage with them when they lick
- Move to another part of the room
- Put a barrier between you and your cat
- Distract them with their favorite toys
