Why Do Cats Lick Themselves?

A cat is any one of the 37 cat species belonging to the family Felidae, including cheetas, lions, tigers and the domestic cat. They're a carnivorous mammals with an endearing and royal appearance, featuring round heads, long whiskers and paws with dangerous, sharp claws.

All cats are known to lick themselves with their unique tongues, spending up to one-third of their waking hours doing so, which serves several different purposes. Firstly, it's a grooming method that cleanses fur of food and dirt particles, as well as excess oil and odor. Secondly, licking moderates temperature, keeping the cat warmer when it's cold, and cooler when it's hot.

Thirdly, licking improves circulation and cats will persistently lick wounds to speed up the healing process. A cat's tongue has sharp protuberances which make it easy to comb and clean fur and distribute saliva evenly for temperature control. Aside from these, licking and grooming are a type of ritual for cats. Grooming can be a sign of comfort and happiness. Cats may lick one another or even their owners as a sign of love and affection.

More about cats:

• The Egyptian Mau is the oldest domestic cat breed in the world.
• Domestic cats can run up to 30 miles (48 kilometers) per hour, and can jump as high as five times their own height.
• The Siberian Tiger is the largest cat in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do cats spend so much time licking themselves?

Cats spend a significant amount of time licking themselves as part of their grooming routine. This behavior serves multiple purposes: it helps keep their fur clean, removes parasites like fleas, distributes natural oils evenly across their coat, and provides thermoregulation. Grooming also serves as a comforting behavior that helps reduce stress in felines.

Is it normal for a cat to lick itself excessively?

While grooming is a normal and essential behavior, excessive licking can indicate underlying issues. Over-grooming may be a sign of stress, allergies, skin problems, or even pain. If a cat is licking the same area repeatedly or causing hair loss or skin damage, it's important to consult a veterinarian to rule out medical concerns.

Can a cat's licking be harmful to its health?

Generally, a cat's licking is beneficial to its health; however, if a cat ingests too much hair, it can lead to the formation of hairballs, which can cause digestive blockages. Additionally, if a cat licks an area treated with topical medications or household chemicals, it could ingest harmful substances. Monitoring your cat's grooming habits is important for its well-being.

How does licking help a cat regulate its body temperature?

Licking helps cats regulate their body temperature through the evaporation of saliva on their fur. When a cat licks its coat, the saliva evaporates and cools the skin, much like sweating in humans. This is particularly important since cats have fewer sweat glands and rely on grooming to maintain a comfortable body temperature.

Do cats lick themselves for social reasons?

Yes, cats do engage in social grooming, also known as allogrooming. This behavior, where cats lick each other, is a way to strengthen social bonds, show affection, and provide mutual comfort. It's most common among cats that have a close relationship, such as littermates or cats that have been raised together.

What role does licking play in a cat's healing process?

Licking can play a role in a cat's healing process. The act of licking can help clean wounds and remove debris, which can prevent infection. Cats' saliva has been found to contain enzymes that may promote healing. However, excessive licking of wounds should be discouraged as it can lead to irritation or infection, and veterinary care should be sought for any significant injuries.