Question

Why do cats like licking people?

Why do cats like licking people?

Answer 1

Cats often lick people as a sign of affection. Cats have scent glands located on their faces, so when they lick people, they are marking them with their scent as a way of claiming ownership or showing that they feel safe and secure. Cats may also lick people as a way of grooming them, as cats often groom each other by licking.

Answer 2

Your cat's licking may be an affiliative behavior, which is a friendly, altruistic behavior. Mothers groom their kittens, and cats may groom one another, which is called allogrooming. This grooming strengthens their social bonds, so your cat may groom you to nurture your relationship