Why Do Cats Lick Their Owners?

We all love our cats- from their cute little paws to their adorable facial expressions. But some of their behaviors do make us question “Why do they do what they do”? 

While we may not have answers to all their strange and sometimes amusing behaviors, let’s dig deeper and try to understand why cats lick their owners? 

Why do cats lick their owners? 

There are various possible reasons why domestic felines lick their owners and while these reasons aren’t scientific or validated by behavioral experts, these are prevailing, common theories. Here are some possible reasons why your cat is licking you: 

• To groom you: Cats are generally known to be ‘clean animals’ and grooming is a natural process for them, whether it is self grooming or grooming their close ones a.k.a. allogrooming. Cats groom those they love so take it as a sign of their affection towards you. 
• To lower their anxiety level: Big and significant changes, such as moving or addition of a new pet to the family, causes stress to cats. When cats are stressed or anxious, they lick themselves or their caretaker excessively. They might lick your face, hand or even hair continuously to relieve some of their stress.
• To mark their territory: Cats are very possessive individuals.They use many different methods to “mark their territory,” including cheek rubbing, scratching, spraying and even licking. By licking, cats claim something as their own, whether it is an object or a favorite human. If your cat is licking you, it is possible they are trying to deposit their scent on you to ensure that other cats or animals know you belong to them.
• To taste the food you are having: If your cat smells a particular scent of food on you, they might be tempted to inspect that taste. If they don't get the chance to taste the food from you directly, they might resort to the next best option- getting a taste from you! They would lick your face, near your mouth or your hand to find any trace of the food you just had.
• To get more of your attention: If your cat is licking you consistently, it might be bonding time they are looking for. Cats get extra clingy at times and they may lick you repeatedly until you shower all your attention on them. Female cats also demand more of your attention while they are in heat. At times cats may lick you when they are hungry and want you to feed them or when they are vying for your attention against other pets. If you have been away from home for an extended period of time and your cat is licking you, it’s possibly because he is seeking more bonding time with you.
• Physical discomfort: If your cat is in pain, she may lick you excessively, followed by continuous yowling to express her painful discomfort. It is better to get her examined by a vet in such situations. Excessive or persistent licking should be evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical disorder.

Licking is one of the ways cats communicate and express their love and care for you.  While persistent licking behavior should not be encouraged, an occasional human lick is alright as it stems from genuine curiosity and provides the cat comfort and belonging.