Why Do Cats Lick You? Here’s the Top 4 Reasons

Why do cats lick you? You’ve seen them licking themselves obsessively to stay clean, so maybe they think you’re dirty. Or maybe it’s to show affection? As per usual, our felines seem to be completely set on confusing their parents with their quirky cat behaviour.

But luckily, you’ve got us. And as per usual, we’re going to demystify your cat’s weird habits. Then you won’t have to worry whether your cat is trying to tell you to take another shower before you head out in public.

The reasons why cats lick you

It turns out there isn’t one singular reason why cats lick you. There are four instances in which your cat might be getting a bit tongue-happy with their humans.

The good news is it’s always because there’s some form of affection involved. So, if your cat licks you, you can rest easy knowing they probably think you’re the bees knees.

1. They’re showing possession

Cats are just as territorial as dogs. And even more so, in many cases. Not just when it comes to their space (although that too!) but also to their ‘things’. And basically, one of the reasons why cats lick you is to show that you’re theirs.

You are now one of your cat’s possessions. Congratulations?

You’re their human and they’re your cat. So, your kitty could be licking you to show everyone that you’re part of their territory. Like a proud owner. Kind of cute, when you think about it….if a little bit controlling! But it’s no different to you smugly commenting about your gorgeous feline on one of the world’s many cat Instagram accounts, surely?

2. Why do cats lick you? Love and acceptance

This is the one you were hoping for, we all know it. You’ve seen those scenes on National Geographic documentaries when dogs cuddle one another, baboons groom each other, or horses scratch each other’s withers. It’s all very cute and you can basically feel the love.

The good news is that’s what your cat could be doing. They either see you as a cat or as equal to a cat. Or close enough, anyway. One of the reasons why your cat licks you is to show simple love and affection. You probably stroke them or interact back, so it’s engaging in a type of mutual grooming that shows acceptance.

Cats first develop this tendency as kittens, when their mother licks them. They don’t ‘unlearn’ this behaviour. So adult cats groom one another – or you – to show affection and to strengthen their bond.

3. Comfort

Cats are all about comfort. You’ve seen them curled up on your most luxurious blanket or stealing the best spot in front of the heater. But they also have a tendency to want to “fix” things when they go wrong.

If your cat is feeling anxious, you might have noticed they lick themselves. It’s a bit of a calming mechanism, almost like some humans bite their nails to comfort themselves. It can help them to feel more settled.

So, one of the reasons why your cat licks you sometimes is to offer this comfort. If you’re stressed or sick, you may notice they lick you more often. Sure, you mightn’t necessarily feel like a rough, wet cat tongue takes all your troubles away. But they don’t know that. This is a sure sign they’re trying to make you feel better.

Of course, use your discretion. If your cat licks you or themselves loads more than usual and seems a bit obsessive, they may be experiencing high levels of stress. If they seem out of sorts, perhaps take them to the vet to see if something’s wrong. They could be trying to tell you they’re in pain, experiencing what’s known as separation anxiety in pets, or are overly stressed out.

4. Why do cats lick you? Taste

Cats have heightened senses compared to humans. They have better senses of smell, sight and taste than we do. So though you’ve hopefully never licked yourself to see how you taste, your cat does sometimes.

You probably don’t taste of Vegemite or anything, but your skin does have a taste. It might even be that you have a particularly delicious-tasting moisturiser or shampoo! It isn’t only you who loves that vanilla and coconut lotion.

Now, this doesn’t mean your cat should chow down on moisturiser. Or that everything you keep around the house is safe for that rough tongue. In fact, some of the things that are harmful to pets include popular aromatherapy oils and even salt lamps (are essential oils harmful to cats? yes).

But a lick or two could just be them trying to figure out whether you taste good or not.

If your cat does start licking weird stuff like chocolate, tea tree oil, or poisonous plants (like lillies) then having a cat insurance plan in place can help you provide for non-routine vet visits and medicine. You can read our article How Expensive is Pet Insurance Really? for an idea of premiums. Hint: it’s cheaper than you think.

Or you could just click below and get a quote.