Have you ever wondered what does it mean when a cat licks you? Have you thought about what your cat wants to say when you are petting her while she is licking you?

Cats are famous for rarely showing an attachment to their owners, but the moments when they are more affectionate are priceless. The veterinarian Bruce Fogle is an author of many books about cats. In his opinion cats are connecting and socializing by licking. 

In the first contact when a mother cat sees her kittens, she starts to lick them around the nose or the mouth. She is doing this to clean the kitten, but also to stimulate the newborn’s breathing.

Marking territory 

The first feeling cats remember is the licking. It helps them to mark their territory and their belongings. Cats usually leave their scent on the bedding they sleep at, on the dishes they eat from and of course on you. This is a sign that she feels you as a friend and feels safe around you. Some experts believe that abandoned and thrown out kittens, which didn’t have a mother to lick them while growing up, tend to stay with the same behaviour. They often stay with baby behaviour until late in their age. 

What does it mean when a cat licks you excessively?

If your older cat never licked you before, but suddenly licks you excessively, pay more attention to her behaviour. It is possible that the cat is trying to show that something is not well with her health. If the licking is bothering you, try to distract her with a reward or a game. Alternatively, you can motivate her to dedicate her attention to something else like a new toy.

When the fur licking is energetic, this could be a sign for irritated skin, fleas, infection or an insect bite. You should bring your pet for a detailed check, so the right treatment can be prescribed. If the licking is not associated with any disease process, then don’t wonder anymore what does it mean when a cat licks you and be more patient.