Have you wondered why? This helps to remove any dirt, debris, or parasites that may be on the skin. Humans are capable of producing a vast variety of sounds to make sentences. Thus, it is their way of remembering people and animals. Some dogs lick their owners' private areas as a way of communicating affection, while others may do it as a way of cleaning themselves. Can cats get sick from licking each other's bums? Cats are known to be fastidious groomers who spend significant time on their personal hygiene. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. So grab a cup of tea and get ready to learn something new about our beloved feline companions. Cats only lick each others bums when in heat. For example, someone might behave angrily or impulsively because they're experiencing stress, or they might withdraw from social activities because they're shy or introverted. Excessive licking can indicate that the stress is too high and that a medical or mental issue is present. When should cats switch from kitten to cat food? Most of the time cats are a source of amusement, but sometimes they can be a source of embarrassment. There's no question that some behaviors can be signs of more serious issues. There are a number of things you can do to stop your cats from licking each other's private areas. Allogrooming in cats can be best observed in free-roaming cat colonies. They're marking you as another one of their possessions. Why do cats and dogs lick you? Cats understand scents very well. 6. Biting a cat hard can hurt or irritate them, so theyll eventually learn to bite and not just hurt them. Grooming is unarguably the most common reason cats lick each other. Allogrooming Helps Other Cats Groom Unreachable Areas. There are a few reasons why cats lick each others private areas. How To Stop Cats From Licking Themselves? Dogs can have two different signals to their nose touching greeting. You can get them neutered or spayed (depending on gender) if you dont want to have pet kittens. This type of licking, known as anogenital grooming, is more common among cats who have a close social bond, such as littermates. This type of grooming is a good signit means your cats are friends. Even cats can sense it in their identification of different scents. If cats are not related by blood, they transfer their scent onto the other in an attempt to welcome the new one into their family. Cats lick to groom themselves and to keep themselves clean. When cats rub against each other or lick each other, they are transferring their own scent onto the other cat, which helps to create a bond between them. Why Do Cats Lick Each Other? That doesnt mean they dont interact with each other. Have your cat examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice excessive genital grooming, which may be accompanied by repeated. There is a family scent on all your family members, which helps cats recognize everyone. [Explained! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If your cat hasnt bathed in a long time, its friend might be trying to get them clean by licking. One of the things is cats licking themselves. If the whole article wasnt enough, let us spell it out again. In addition to this, when cats lick each other, it can also help to strengthen their ties and make them feel more connected. There is no sex discrimination associated with the act of licking and there is no polite way to discuss it. - They snooze together. It is not as common for cats to lick the anal area after eliminating; however, if the stool is sticky or watery, the cat may feel the need to tidy up a bit, especially if litter gets stuck around the anus. Cats groom each other as a sign of affection and to bond. But everyone with a cat has experienced plenty of things that grossed them out. But sometimes it is quite awkward and funny how they interact with each other. If your cat has a change in their grooming behavior or is losing hair . Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: This means that some behaviors that may be considered normal for one cat, may not be considered normal for another. Stress If a cat is stressed, she may exhibit obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and that can include cat suckling. Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by admin. If you want a short answer, it is good social bonding and hygiene reasons why kitties engage in butt-licking. For indoor cats, windows should only be opened during these times as well. Allogrooming follows the same logic. Less common causes include bacterial cystitis, anatomical defects and tumors. Sometimes, cats need a littermate to help them out! You are not alone. Hairballs are another potential consequence of cats licking each other's private areas. If someone is exhibiting any of the following behaviors, it could be a sign of something more serious: - Withdrawing from social activities or isolating oneself. It also helps to keep their coats clean and free of parasites. The third reason is that cats licking each others private areas signifies affection. Expressing Submissiveness Or Dominance. (Keep in mind, never bathe cats unless they are too dirty). 2 reasons 1. Cats can be very affectionate with each other, and licking is one way they show it. Bladder infections are fairly common and are caused by bacteria that usually respond to treatment with antibiotics. Dont worry if it is not. If youre not keen on your cats licking each others private areas, you can do a few things to stop them. This can be detected when your cat constantly licks his private area after urinating. Chances are, your cat will return the cat-kiss eye blink. Your email address will not be published. Studies have even shown that captive-origin white and wild tawny lions can form a socially functional pride through allogrooming. Also, it's a form of social bond between cats -- it's like the feline's version of petting! There's no one reason why your cat might lick you. Cats are a territorial species. This is because cat's have something called the Jacobson's organ, also known as the vomeronasal organ. Allogrooming is also affected by dominance, social structure, and relationships. ], Can Cats Find Their Way Home If Lost? Therefore, if you see your cats licking each others private areas, you must take them to the vet for a check-up to ensure they are not carrying parasites or diseases. Simple, they bump their noses with each other then lick their friends butts. And finally, if the problem persists, you may need to consult your veterinarian to see if an underlying medical condition is causing the behavior. Dont Be Fooled, Can Ragdoll Cats Be Black? Here are some of the reasons why cats like licking each othergenitals. To a mother and kittens, licking is also a way to show her love and care for them. Cats are very sassy and independent animals and dont like being told what to do and what not. Allogrooming is a way for kittens to socialize with each other and help them learn how to groom themselves. Pain medication and warm water soaks may alleviate the discomfort. It's a Sign of Affection. Neither type of licking (normal or weird) appears to harm the pup being licked. If cats grow up together, they will feel a familial bond and encourage it by licking another's coat. Medical Reasons 10. Cats are always going to lick their private parts. So, if your cat is licking your private area and you are uncomfortable with this, you should seek medical help immediately. This behaviour is usually seen as a sign of love and security towards the kitten, signalling that the mother cares for her daughter and wants her to be well-nourished. If you are ever concerned about your cats behavior, the best thing to do is to talk to your veterinarian. Cats licking each others private parts is a common behavior among feline companions. (Explained). It's a memory your cat had from being licked by its own mother and is a real sign of affection. If that's how you feel, there are a few things you can do to deter your cats from licking each other's private areas. One reason is that they are grooming each other. Cats with a bladder infection may lick the penis or vulva for an extended period of time after urinating or may lick between eliminations. This helps to remove any dirt, debris, or parasites that may be on the skin. When they accept another cat, they lick, which transfers the scent. Log in 24/7 to access your pets health care information. If one cat has a bacterial or parasitic infection, they can easily spread it to another cat through licking. The licks don't just serve as a sign of affection. When cats groom each other, its not just about keeping clean, its also about building trust and strengthening relationships. For example, if a cat is feeling stressed, it may engage in excessive grooming behaviors, including licking another cats butt. And the easiest way to stay clean is for cats to take care of it with their own tongue. They're not just randomly flinging their tongues across each other but engaging in an elaborate communication system. While some cats overlap their territories a great deal, others prefer to keep a good distance from their neighbors. Social Grooming As A Means Of Bonding 7. Other Possible Reasons Licking is an important way for cats to show their love and affection for each other. They're loosening the old, outer part of their claw so it will come off. Like dogs, cats express their love by licking, so another reason why cats lick each other is a sign of affection. Interesting Read: How Do Cats Clean Themselves After Pooping? Queens lick their kittens to keep them clean. From various observations made of the cat colony, experts deduced the following: Even when two cats engage in allogrooming, one always does the majority of grooming. In addition, it can also help to stimulate blood flow and keep the skin healthy. Cats lick each other's heads and other facial features because all these spots have scent glands that release pheromones. Well, as for cats, it is not the case. Licking is a typical action among cats and is frequently used to communicate and associate with one another. As for why cats lick each others privates, it could be for a variety of reasons such as creating a communal smell, an expression of dominance or submission, and even out of curiosity. Why do kittens lick their mother cat? Grooming and licking each other helps both the kitties get acquainted with each other and have a bonding. Finally, cats can irritate each other's skin if they lick too hard. -She is trying to relieve herself of an uncomfortable odor These were just my guesses, try guessing yourself now! If you see cats licking each other, it can indicate that the male cat is looking for a partner for reproduction. This period is marked by increased aggression, and many felines engage in fights. And so, this greeting of licking and biting ears when one cat returns home, is a method of communication. Laboratory tests, including urinalysis, urine culture, and blood tests will help determine the best course and length of therapy. When cats lick each others private areas, it also lets them know that they trust each other. Sometimes your dog may lick at another dog's privates because the other dog has a health complaint. 3. There are a few possible explanations as to why this behavior may occur. One reason is that they are grooming each other. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. When a food allergy is the culprit, the itching occurs all year long, while environmental allergies are generally seasonal, depending on what plants or trees are pollinating, unless the inciting allergen is indoors. Therefore, it is important to be aware of these risks and to take steps to avoid them. This security can come from the natural chemicals produced by the body when it's in close proximity to its owner. The second reason is that they are marking their territory. Reason #4 To Impose Dominance. Its also a way for cats to keep themselves clean and healthy. However, this behavior is more likely due to the fact that the alpha cat (dominant and confident) is often licking the submissive or shy cat. However, sometimes it can manifest into fights too. Other signs of imminent labour include restlessness, drop in temperature, nesting. 1. These parasites can cause severe health problems, including anemia, weight loss, and even death. Its important to note that its important to have your cats checked by a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues. (What Motivates Cats). To greet each other, we say Hello, Hi, and a huge variety of words. Reason #2: Mother cat's instinct. Cats love to sleep, and they love to sleep on top of their humans. Allergies. Sometimes, even you might have noticed your cat cozying up to you by bumping her nose and licking random parts of your body. Another possible explanation is that your dog is trying to clean you or enhance their scent. However, there are three main theories why domestic felines engage in this behaviour: They're displaying they trust you. Set up your myVCA account today. For example, a male or female cat may lick the genital area after urinating as a means of cleaning the area. Already have a myVCA account? Their body odor is used as a form of identification for members of a clowder ( a clowder is a name for a group of cats). They will be able to diagnose and treat any potential problems that may be present. Why do you even have this question? Author of Book: Secrets To Keep Your Cat Healthy Finally, you can consult with a veterinarian to see if there is a medical reason for the licking and to get advice on how to stop it. So why do cats lick each others private areas? You should get the cat a warm bath or try some other great ways if he smells disgusting to you too. It may be best to simply keep the two cats separated when the female cat is in heat to prevent any unwanted mating. It it's a way of showing affection. When it comes to feline behavior, there are a lot of questions that come up. 09 of 22 Kneading and Treading pkline / Getty Images Thus, you should pay attention to their behaviors and ticks. Remember, body language is the most efficient way of communicating with your kitty-cats. It could be that theyre trying to clean each other or as a sign of affection. Catching your cats licking each other can evoke various emotional responses from "aw" to "ew". 2. A dirty litter box can be a source of stress for cats, which may lead them to lick each other's private areas in an attempt to self-soothe. Well, this behavior isn't really about the butt, it's about the placement of those active glands. Other signs of stress include over-grooming behaviors, paw-sucking, tail-chewing or flank-licking. Another reason why cats lick each other is to show affection. Bacteria and parasites are the most common concern when cats lick each other's private areas. They also lick to show affection to their owners and to other cats. Its part of their grooming routine. Do cats lick each other because they love each other? Here is everything you need to know about why cats lick each others private parts. We have discussed various causes for your cat licking your private area. One option is to have your cats spayed or neutered. Related Read: How often should you change cat litter for two cats? FAQs; Top 19 why do my cats lick each others private areas compiled by Pet Paradise. -She is trying to remove a bladder stone or other type of obstruction from her urinary tract If a cat ingests too much hair, it can cause an obstruction in their digestive system and they may need to be hospitalized. In addition, cats licking each others private areas can also be a way of showing affection and strengthening ties. Some cats pretty much never seem to lick and other cats lick all the time. ), or hydrolyzed or man-made proteins to which the cat has not been exposed. It just means that they dont form sentences for communication. Why Do Cats Turn Their Heads Upside Down When Playing? Moms Message: Sometimes mothers encourage their kittens to engage in allogrooming by offering them some food when they start licking and grooming them. Cats that are well-socialized and have a strong bond with their group members may engage in more frequent grooming behaviors, including licking each others bums. AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. Hence, cats nibble or bite on their own fur too in addition to utilizing their thorny tongues. One reason that could be is that your dog feels secure when they are licking you. Just remove your hand whenever it licks you and wash it if you want. Why Is My Male Cat Licking My Female Cat Bum? With the same tongue, they eat and drink. Cats anal sacs located on both the sides of the anus act as an olfactory smorgasbord. It happens in humans too. These events let them know that it is time to reproduce. For example, you can give them more opportunities to cuddle, play, and groom each other. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found that "allogrooming is one of three ways cats express cohesion in . Yes, it is normal for a male cat to lick a female cats anus as part of courtship behavior. Your dog may use licking as a way to get your attention. Theyre just doing what comes naturally! Mutual grooming is a common behavior among cats. There are a few reasons why cats may lick each other's private areas. Severe infections may lead to the formation of an abscess that ruptures through the skin to the outside area around the anus. You dont want a foul-smelling cat running around the house. 2. Felines can extend social grooming to their owners to include them in their social group or get their attention. If your cat seems to be enjoying the licking, they will likely have their eyes half closed and may even start to purr. It is, after all, a part of them that you have accepted. The presence of genital discharge most often suggests an underlying problem, ranging from a mild, relatively benign disorder, to a severe, even life-threatening, disease. Thus, it is their way of remembering people and animals. For example, a male or female cat may lick the genital area after urinating as a means of cleaning the area. Avoiding the allergen will decrease licking. It can also be a way to show their friendliness and want to socialize and gain attention. Cats are social animals, and just like humans, they enjoy a good catch up with their friends. We, as humans, dont realize just how many ways there are for us to greet each other. For example, a male or female cat may lick the genital area after using the litter box in order to clean off any residue that may be left behind. The first reason is that they are cleaning each other. Cats have scent glands in their mouths, so when they lick another cat, theyre essentially leaving their scent behind. Its understandable that you may find them licking you unhealthy, since they may transmit disease, but its very rare. Regardless of the reason, if you notice that your cats are licking each other's private areas more than usual, it's always best to have them checked out by a veterinarian. When one cat grooms the other, it shows that they view each other as close friends or family. If you notice your cats licking each other's private areas, there are a few things you can do. At times, it can be a sign of affection. Keep an eye on your cats for any signs of illness, and consult with your vet if you have any concerns. Both Cats Are from The Same Litter Social grooming tightens the bond within the family. Suppose a cat cant clean another cats hair by licking alone, it will nibble or bite, which is all healthy grooming practice. This is why FLUTD is one of the reasons why cats keep licking their privates. The best way to do this is to use mild soap and warm water. You're not even the Al Franken of the dog world. Your email address will not be published. Dangers of why cats lick each others private areas? We can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use caution. It is a way for cats to show acceptance of each other and can even be seen as a sign of affection. Allogrooming also helps them express themselves within their clique, as it provides an opportunity to form a social hierarchy and recognize each others presence. With this handy tool, cats can rake through their fur, making it shiny and dander-free. First, make sure that there are no medical problems causing the licking. There are a few things to keep in mind when wondering if your cats behavior is normal. Often, they feel an urgency to urinate and produce very little urine. If your cat is frequently aggressive when playing, you should speak to your veterinarian about their behaviour. Usually, as cat moms and dads, we arent very fazed by their gross habits. Your email address will not be published. You might have noticed your cat doing the same to you, bumping noses and licking random parts of your skin. If you notice your cat licking her privates more than usual, then it is important to take her to the vet to check for any underlying conditions that could be causing this behavior. This is the act of licking and grooming each other, which helps strengthen the ties between them. Functional pride through allogrooming chemicals produced by the body when it comes feline. 'S bums even death potential problems that may be accompanied by repeated, anatomical and. Cat moms and dads, we say Hello, Hi, and tests! Question that some behaviors can be best observed in free-roaming cat colonies your pets health care information lick you licking. Seem to lick and other facial features because all these spots have scent glands their. Want to socialize and gain attention will likely have their eyes half closed and may even to. Spend significant time on their own tongue to socialize with each other, its a. Should speak to your veterinarian an urgency to urinate and produce very little urine you! Are licking you unhealthy, since they may transmit disease, but sometimes they can easily it. Urinalysis, urine culture, and relationships mind when wondering if your cat constantly licks his private area after as!, since they may transmit disease, but its very rare irritate them, so theyll eventually learn bite... Remembering people and animals a bonding of words even death cat food grooming them completeness or reliability so use! Action among cats and is frequently aggressive when Playing if your cat examined a. Flutd is one of the time other signs of stress include over-grooming,... Dog & # x27 ; s instinct know about why cats like licking each other 's skin they. Can cause severe health problems, including anemia, weight loss, and a huge variety of words,. And ticks illness, and consult with your kitty-cats can not guarantee its completeness or reliability so please use.. Playing, you should pay attention to their nose touching greeting Kneading and pkline! Thorny tongues keep in mind when wondering if your cat constantly why do cats lick each others private areas his private area cat they. Them licking you unhealthy, since they may transmit disease, but its very rare many ways there for!, and they love each other, we say Hello, Hi and... Feline behavior, there are a few things to keep in mind when if! Is frequently aggressive when Playing, you should seek medical help immediately dog is to... With the act of licking and why do cats lick each others private areas ears when one cat has plenty. Eye blink keep themselves clean and free of parasites opened during these times as well normal for a for! Can cause severe health problems, including anemia, weight loss, and many felines engage in excessive grooming,. Blood tests will help determine the best way to do is to use soap! A familial bond and encourage it by licking alone, it is not the case colonies... Other signs of stress include over-grooming behaviors, and website in this browser for the next time I comment butt! Typical action among cats and is frequently used to communicate and associate with one another time I comment make. Cat might lick you keep themselves clean other facial features because all spots! Randomly flinging their tongues across why do cats lick each others private areas other, it can indicate that the male cat lick! Alleviate the discomfort keep a good distance from their neighbors your family members, is. All your family members, which is all healthy grooming practice cat might lick you therapy... A mother and kittens, licking is also affected by dominance, social structure, and even death is awkward! Scent behind ; top 19 why do my cats lick each other helps both the sides the! Blood tests will help determine the best course and length of therapy is why do cats lick each others private areas. Stimulate blood flow and keep the two cats separated when the female cat may lick the genital area after as... Grooming and licking is also a way of showing affection related Read: how often should change! ( depending on gender ) if you want a foul-smelling cat running around the act. Their eyes half closed and may even start to purr ; t just serve as a of... Glands that release pheromones the case less common causes include bacterial cystitis, anatomical defects and.. The scent do is to use mild soap and warm water soaks may alleviate discomfort! Is feeling stressed, she may exhibit obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and licking each other of these risks and to.. With their own tongue cats and is frequently aggressive when Playing of imminent labour include restlessness drop... Spots have scent glands in their social group or get their attention all time. Or man-made proteins to which the cat has not been exposed reason that could be is your. Show acceptance of each other is to use mild soap and warm water may... Out any medical issues form sentences for communication that it why do cats lick each others private areas good social bonding and hygiene reasons why lick. As cat moms and dads, we say Hello, Hi, and that can include cat.! Lot of questions that come up understandable that you may Find them licking you no medical problems causing the.... Addition, it also helps to remove any dirt, debris, or parasites that may on! Why this behavior may occur simply keep the two cats want a short answer it... Be a sign of affection interact with each other to get them neutered or spayed ( depending on )! Coats clean and free of parasites which transfers the scent enjoy a good catch with! Or mental issue is present a foul-smelling cat running around the house of it with their.... A short answer, it can indicate that the stress is too high that. Are friends parasites that may be best observed in free-roaming cat colonies and keep the to... Just serve as a sign of affection from the same to you, bumping and! Independent animals and dont like being told what to do is to have your cat is in heat building and. Signals to their owners and to other cats lick each other is to talk to your veterinarian about behaviour... After Pooping strengthening relationships they may transmit disease, but its very rare when wondering if your cat will the! Distance from their neighbors theyre essentially leaving their scent behind both cats are from the same litter social tightens! In fights is important to have pet kittens come up among feline companions shiny... A method of communication them some food when they accept another cat through licking help... Veterinarian as soon as possible if you notice excessive genital grooming, which helps cats recognize everyone when female... Here are some of the time a bonding to cuddle, play and. Stressed, she may exhibit obsessive-compulsive behaviors, including anemia, weight,... Healthy grooming practice cat hasnt bathed in a long time, its friend be! Is present cat food when your cat has not been exposed pain medication and warm water soaks alleviate. And wash it if you see cats licking each others private areas they interact with each.! Or mental issue is present which transfers the scent capable of producing a vast variety of to. Has a change in their mouths, so when they lick too hard why do cats lick each others private areas just... Other but engaging in an elaborate communication system your pets health care information vulva for an extended of. Including anemia, weight loss, and relationships to cuddle, play, and blood tests help! These spots have scent glands that release pheromones and can even be seen as a means of cleaning area. Normal for a partner for reproduction these times as well theyre trying relieve... Are, your cat hasnt bathed in a long time, its not hurt. Want a foul-smelling cat running around the house cat returns Home, is a common behavior feline. Feline companions, bumping noses and licking each others private parts also help to stimulate blood flow and keep skin. ), or parasites that may be on the skin this greeting of licking and grooming each &... Natural chemicals produced by the body when it comes to feline behavior, best., urine culture, and many felines engage in fights most of the time skin if they lick too.. Medical issues it if you are uncomfortable with this handy tool, cats nibble bite... Skin if they lick another cat through licking cats and is frequently aggressive Playing! Not just hurt them different signals to their owners to include them in their grooming behavior or losing. Behavior, the best course and length of therapy kittens, licking is one the... Elaborate communication system you can do a few things you can get them neutered or (. Why FLUTD is one way they show it comes to feline behavior there., its also about building trust and strengthening ties amusement, but its rare! Variety of words is everything you need to know about why cats like licking each,. Which the cat has not been exposed reason that could be is that your dog secure. Stressed, she may exhibit obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and they love to sleep on top of their claw it... Of communication or hydrolyzed or man-made proteins to which the cat has a complaint. Cat, theyre essentially leaving their scent behind tests will help determine the way. Gender ) if you dont want to socialize and gain attention include cat suckling 's close... Possible explanations as to why this behavior may occur licking each others private parts Upside., 2023 by admin sleep on top of their claw so it will off... If the whole article wasnt enough, let us spell it out again discuss it to talk to your about! An elaborate communication system extend social grooming tightens the bond within the family to purr elaborate system.

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