Why do cats lick humans?

We often associate licks and “kisses” with our dog companions, but why do our cat companions lick us? Is it to show their love? Are they just licking the salt or leftover food off our hands? Or are they grooming us like they would their kittens? 

 

 

The following are some of the reasons why your cat may be licking you.

1. Your cat is expressing affection for you and creating a bond. As soon as kittens are born, their mother licks them as a way of grooming, but also to show affection. Some adult cats may carry this behavior into adulthood and may lick their owners as a way to foster their relationship and show their affection. 

2. Your cat is seeking attention. Often when a pet licks us, we respond by petting or talking to them. Your cat may have learned that by licking you they’ll get attention. Even if you gently push them away to stop unwanted licking, this negative attention is better than no attention at all. 

3. Your cat is marking you. Cats like to mark their territory and one way they do this is through licking. If they see you as “theirs,” they may begin to lick you to mark you as part of their territory. Licking leaves their scent on objects and lets other cats know who you belong to!

4. Your cat likes your taste. You may have interesting scents on you—especially if you just prepared salmon or trout for dinner! Even lotions, shampoos and other topical products can be attractive to your feline companion. Salts and sugars left on your skin from perspiration can also be appealing to cats. 

5. Your cat is stressed. It’s common for stressed or anxious cats to begin licking items—including people. Usually stress leads to excessive self-grooming, but in some cases, licking can be directed to family members. If you think something is causing your pet to experience anxiety, try to identify the source and remove it if possible. 

Finally, if your cat’s licking becomes excessive, it could be due to a medical problem. Nausea or pain, such as pain or discomfort from osteoarthritis, can lead to licking of the affected areas—and even you. Call your veterinary healthcare team with any questions you may have regarding your cat’s licking or to book an appointment for an exam.