As a pet owner, it’s likely that you’ve experienced your cat licking your arm a number of times.[post_ads] It’s often interpreted as a sign of affection but cats are known for being notoriously independent and less obvious in their expressions of love.
The behaviour of cats is often hard to understand but learning common feline actions can help you to understand your pets’ needs.
Whether you are a first-time cat owner or couldn’t live without your own furry friend, we share some possible reasons why cats lick you.
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Cleaning
If your cat views you as their ‘friend’, they’ll do all that they can to look after you. Cleaning you is one example them demonstrating this.
When your cat licks you, you’ll probably feel like you’re being lightly rubbed with sandpaper. [post_ads2]This is because your cat’s tongue is made with papillae – backwards-facing hooks that help to remove dirt from their own fur.
Stress
Excessive licking can also be a symptom of stress in cats. When your cat was a kitten and being constantly licked by his/her mother, it acted as a way to soothe the new-born from the scary outside world.
When your cat is feeling stressed they can use the same coping mechanism on you; helping to reduce anxiety through licking.
Moving to a new home is one of the most stressful experiences that your cat could face, which may be the explanation as to why your cat is excessively licking you more in a new house.
Marking territory
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When your cat was a kitten, they will have been licked constantly by their mother. This makes other animals known that the baby is hers’ by marking her territory with saliva.
If your cat is fully grown and still enjoys licking you, it’s likely that they are doing a similar thing. Licking is your pets’ way to tell other cats that they are yours and warn off any other animals.
To show affection
Licking is a cat’s version of petting. However, it’s likely that she’s unable to stroke you using her paw so she has to resort to licking!
For many pet owners, getting a lick from their pet is seen as a huge compliment. It can mean that they feel completely safe with you and want to show their appreciation.
Cats are some of the smartest animals around so if you’re experiencing a lick from your pet once in a while, you should feel privileged!
Health complications
Excessive licking can be a symptom of a complicated under-lying issue related to your pets’ health.
If a cat is licking herself more frequently than usual or doesn’t often show affection to you, she may be seeking relief from a skin irritation, an infection or fleas.
Try to examine her fur for any apparent reasons as to why she may be licking more frequently and consult your vet for advice on the best treatment.
How to stop your cat from licking you
As much as your cat may want to show affection, it can feel uncomfortable (and sometimes sore!) when it happens constantly.
Because licking is a natural behaviour for cats, it’s important to never punish your pet for licking you. She’s simply following her natural instincts!
Instead, distract your pet with a toy infused with catnip to help to take her mind off licking rituals. Redirecting her attention with play can is a great alternative for bonding with your pet, and is likely to be much more enjoyable for you as her owner.
On the whole, you shouldn’t be concerned by your cat’s licking – you should feel happy that you’re the chosen one!
Courtesy : Animal Friends