Have you ever found yourself asking the question, “Why is my cat licking me?” Well, let me tell you, my dear feline-loving friend, you are not alone. As a cat expert (yes, those two can coexist), I have been asked this question many times over. And let me tell you, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
First and foremost, let’s acknowledge the fact that cats are weird. Like, really weird. They do things that we humans will never fully understand. But when it comes to licking, there are a few reasons why your furry friend might be indulging in some tongue-to-skin action.
One reason could simply be that your cat is showing affection for you. Yes, cats can love too! They often see their humans as part of their family and will show affection in their own unique ways, one of which is licking. So, take it as a compliment. Your cat thinks you’re pretty great.
Another reason why your cat might be licking you is because of the salty taste of your skin. Cats have a keen sense of taste and are often drawn to salty or savory flavors. So, if you’ve just come back from a workout and have a bit of sweat on your skin, your cat might be indulging in a little snack. Gross? Maybe. Adorable? Absolutely.
It’s also important to note that cats lick as a way to groom themselves and others. They have rough tongues that are perfect for removing any loose fur, dirt, or debris from their own fur. So, if your cat is licking you, they might be trying to clean you like they clean themselves.
Now, let’s add a little humor to the mix, shall we? Maybe your cat is licking you because they think you’re their personal cat toy. Cats love to play and chase things, and if you’re moving around and wiggling your hand or foot, your cat might see it as an opportunity to engage in a bit of playtime. Just be careful not to encourage any biting or scratching!
Or perhaps your cat is licking you because they’re trying to figure out what you taste like. Maybe they’re conducting an experiment to see if humans taste as good as their favorite cat treats. I’m not saying your cat is plotting to eat you, but…well, better safe than sorry.
All jokes aside, cat licking is usually nothing to be concerned about. In fact, it’s often a sign of affection or a desire to bond with their human. However, if your cat’s licking becomes excessive or obsessive, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue that should be addressed by a veterinarian.
So, the next time your cat starts licking you, just remember that they’re not trying to turn you into a feline popsicle. They’re just being their weird and wonderful selves, showing you some love, or satisfying their taste buds. And really, who can blame them? We’re all a little weird in our own way.
