Why Does My Cat Lick Me? 7 Common Reasons

Cats spend up to 8% of their waking time grooming, so you were bound to get a feline “kiss” sooner or later.   

In fact, licking is a normal behavior for cats—but why do cats lick you, instead of themselves or another cat?  

Here’s what to know about this common cat behavior. 

Why Do Cats Lick You?

There’s no single reason a cat might lick you. In fact, scientists have several theories as to why cats might enjoy this behavior.  

Here are some of the most common reasons.  

Your Cat Is Expressing Affection 

Mothers groom their kittens, and cats can groom one another, which is called allogrooming.  

This grooming strengthens cats’ social bonds—so it’s possible that your cat is grooming you to express affection and nurture your relationship as well.   

Your Cat Is Seeking Attention 

Your cat may have learned very quickly that licking gets attention—especially if you’ve rewarded your cat’s licking by talking to them, petting them, or giving them other attention when they perform the behavior.   

In other words, they’ve come to associate it with praise and good things.  

Your Cat Is Identifying You as Part of the Group 

Cats communicate by marking objects and other animals with their scents, and one reason why mother cats lick their kittens may be to create a familiar group scent.  

Similarly, your cat may lick you as a way of claiming you as a member of their social group. 

Your Cat Is Displaying Kitten-Related Behavior 

Kittens knead and suckle when nursing. If your cat was weaned too early, they may have started licking you to seek the comfort reminiscent of nursing.  

In this case, your cat may also knead and purr as they lick you. 

Your Cat Likes the Taste 

It’s a little bit weird—but human sweat contains sugar and salts that cats may find appealing. 

Your cat may also lick your skin or hair to investigate interesting scents or odors, such as a shampoo or other topical product.  

This can be very harmful—and even toxic—to your cat, so do not allow your cat to lick you after you apply a topical product, as some can contain ingredients that are toxic to cats. 

If you’re concerned that your cat ingested a lotion—or something else, such as a medical ointment—call your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661; a fee applies) right away.  

Your Cat Is Anxious 

Licking may be something cats do to alleviate stress. Stress more commonly leads to excessive self-grooming, but the licking may be directed toward you, too. 

Determine if there are any triggers for the licking, like visitors in your home or loud noises. If your cat’s anxiety is left untreated, the licking may progress to a compulsive behavior, meaning that it gets in the way of their daily activities. This merits a trip to the vet.  

Your Cat Has a Medical Issue 

Your cat may lick you and/or objects in their environment due to a medical problem. Nausea, pain, or discomfort can lead to licking. If your cat’s licking is excessive or has started recently, see a veterinarian. 

Is It Safe To Let Your Cat Lick You?

Letting your cat lick you is generally safe, but there are potential risks.  

Cats carry bacteria in their mouths, which can lead to local or systemic infection if your cat licks an open wound. Immunocompromised people, senior citizens, and pregnant people are most at risk. 

Acquiring a disease from your cat is very rare, but to be safe, don’t let your cat lick your face or any cuts on your skin. 

How To Stop a Cat From Licking You

Whatever the cause, you may find licking uncomfortable or just prefer that your cat choose another outlet for their licks.  

It’s easy to redirect the behavior. Never use negative reinforcement or punishment, as it is harmful for your cat, compromises your bond, and will not change the behavior.  

Instead, here are some tips to minimize the licking: 

• Cover your skin with long-sleeved clothing or a small towel when you interact with your cat. 
• When your cat starts licking, walk away. If your cat is licking for attention, this should cause the behavior to subside. Don’t ignore your cat completely—just when they lick you. (If the licking doesn’t stop after a week, talk to your vet.) 
• Offer your cat a food puzzle or toss a cat toy for them to focus on instead. When your cat engages with the toy, praise them. 

• When your cat interacts with you without licking, reinforce the behavior by rewarding them with praise, petting, or play. 
• Give your cat plenty of environmental enrichment. Offer them a variety of toys and rotate them to create novelty. Provide cat trees and perches and devote at least 15 minutes to interacting with your cat three times daily. 

If your cat’s licking persists or is excessive, see a veterinarian to make sure there isn’t a medical or emotional condition causing the behavior.