If you're blessed with the unconditional love of a feline, you've probably experienced the feeling of their rough tongue licking you. But what exactly does it mean? Is it safe for you to allow them to do this? And will they hate you forever if you try to stop them?
While this special treatment can make you feel loved and special, it can also be quite uncomfortable. However, many cat owners will hesitate to stop their cats from licking them, to avoid hurting their feelings.
So we asked veterinarians what the cat's reaction is likely to be if you decide to stop this behavior, and their answer might surprise you.
Why does my cat lick me?
Dr. Nita Vasudevan, Veterinary Consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance told Newsweek that usually cats lick as a form of bonding and affection.
Grooming each other or their loved ones is a behavior they inherited from their wild ancestors, and is a way for them to strengthen social bonds within their group.
"When your cat licks your face, they may see you as a member of their family or as their chosen person," she said.
Sometimes, cats may also lick you because they are intrigued by the scent of food or skincare products they can smell of you.
Is it safe to let my cat lick me?
According to Vasudevan it's generally OK to let your cat lick you, even on the face if you're comfortable with it and your cat is healthy. However, she pointed out that cats' mouths carry bacteria that, while harmless to them, could cause mild skin irritation or infections in people, especially if you have open wounds or a weakened immune system.
"Cats groom themselves extensively, so their tongues can carry dirt, allergens, or pathogens picked up from their fur or paws," said Vasudevan.
Cats actually carry over 700 species of bacteria in their mouths and cat-scratch disease could be transmitted via their saliva.
According to Cleveland Clinic, cat-scratch disease is an uncommon bacterial infection with symptoms including a rash or bumps on the skin, swollen lymph nodes and fever. It usually goes away on its own in a few weeks or months.
Dr. Liza Cahn, Veterinary Consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance told Newsweek that while it is rare to get a disease from a cat licking you, if you're concerned but you still want to allow your feline to bond with you this way, it's probably best to keep the kitty kisses to areas of your body such as your hands.
How do I stop my cat from licking me?
If you're not comfortable with your cat licking you, you can gently discourage this behavior and redirect their attention.
An article by veterinarian website Bondi Vet, says that the best course of action in this case is walking away from them whenever they start licking you, distracting them with something they like, for example their favorite toy or some catnip, and moving them somewhere else, such as their bed or a scratching post.
Wearing long sleeves or covering yourself when hanging out with your cat can also help keep this behavior at a minimum.
Could there be a medical reason behind their licking?
Cahn says that sometimes a cat's licking behavior could be a sign of scent marking, attention seeking, grooming, and self-soothing resulting from anxiety or stress. In some cases, your cat may simply like the taste.
Rarely, excessive licking could be a sign of a medical condition known as pica, in which nonfood items are ingested. If you suspect this is the case for your cat you must contact your veterinarian and have them checked as soon as possible.
Can my cat get sick from licking me?
If you use topical medications or lotions on your face and body, you should know that these products could be harmful if ingested by your cat during licking, said Cahn.
You should only allow your cat to lick you when no chemicals are applied to your skin, including make up and perfumes.
Will may cat get offended if I stop them from licking me?
Vasudevan explains that cats don't typically feel "offended" in the human sense, but they may feel confused or disheartened if you consistently reject their affectionate gestures.
"That said, cats are also highly adaptable and will usually respect boundaries if you're consistent. To avoid hurting their feelings, try gently redirecting their behavior. For example, you can offer a toy or encourage them to sit nearby instead. Reward them with pets or treats when they comply to reinforce the new habit," she said.
Are there other ways to bond with my cat without letting them lick me?
Other ways to bond with your cat include giving them respectful affection, like petting them only in places you know they like and knowing when to step away if they've had enough interaction for the day.
Creating a comfortable environment and solid care routine will also make your cat feel loved and cared for. Interactive playtime, professional grooming sessions and cat-friendly treats are also great ways to show your fur-baby how much you love them.
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