According to a study published in the Journal of Comparative Psychology, around 60% of domestic cats have been observed engaging in allogrooming, or grooming other cats. Why do you even have this question? For example, a male or female cat may lick the genital area after urinating as a means of cleaning the area. 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. This type of behavior is part of a mother cats instinct to help her kittens pass waste. Mutual grooming is a way for cats to bond and show affection towards one another. Your email address will not be published. Why Is My Male Cat Licking My Female Cat Bum? Strengthening ties through licking is another reason why cats lick each others private areas. Q. what could be the reason behind this behaviour of the - Brainly, What Does it mean when cats lick each other? Also, it is imperative to note that you need to take care of the diet at this stage. Hence, cats nibble or bite on their own fur too in addition to utilizing their thorny tongues. Interesting Read: How Do Cats Clean Themselves After Pooping? Is it normal for cats to lick each others private areas? Why do cats lick each other? This security can come from the natural chemicals produced by the body when it's in close proximity to its owner. This will help to reduce their overall drive to mate, and therefore, lick each other's private areas. Just like humans, cats show their affection in different ways. If you prevent them from cleaning their butt or their friend after using the litter box, dont use toilet paper or water to clean your excretion. First, every cat is different and has their own unique personality. They dont have enough brain power to use another method of greeting. One reason is that they are grooming each other. Its understandable that you may find them licking you unhealthy, since they may transmit disease, but its very rare. It is often thought that cats lick each other's private areas to create a communal smell, which helps them to create a stronger bond with their clique. Reason #2: It's a sign of affection. In the cat world, a moderate degree of licking is part of normal grooming behavior. Cats may also engage in other bonding behaviors such as mutual grooming, play, and cuddling. Your cat feels safe with you and loves to be surrounded by your smell and the sounds of your heartbeat. Cats may bite each other when playing since it is instinctive for them to do it. Depending on how long the cats have been allogrooming, theyll probably want to play afterward. Hairballs are another potential consequence of cats licking each other's private areas. There are several reasons that cats might not get along. In many cases, people exhibit negative behaviors simply because they're going through a tough time, or because they haven't learned healthy coping mechanisms. Cats lick each other's bottoms or butts as a form of communication. Mother Cats Groom Their Kittens. You can do a few things if your cat licks your private areas. When two or more cats live together, there's usually at least one that constantly licks the others and engages in a behavior called "allogrooming." This. The scent glands release a unique smell that acts as a marker for other cats to know whos been there. Alternatively, it could be a way of attracting attention or seeking approval from others. It can also be when they hear howls that cats release at certain times. So next time you see your kitties getting up close and personal, dont be alarmed. Grooming all body parts is a motherly instinct in felines. Cats have scent glands in their butts and a sniff can tell a cat everything about the other . You may have wondered, Why on earth do they do that?. The licking marks you as a member of the pack and helps spread the cats scent. There are ways to stop your dog from licking you. Cats lick each other mean positive social interactions, helping each other groom, showing acceptance and dominance. The most common causes of FLTUD are feline idiopathic cystitis, urinary stones and urethral obstructions. This is because cats have scent glands located in their cheeks, chin, forehead, and tail. Other Possible Reasons 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. They transfer scents through licking. But they cant produce sentences. "Mutual grooming [aka grooming between two individuals] helps connect cats with [a] 'safe' familiar family scent," Shojai told The Dodo. Cats also lick each other to strengthen their ties within the same family. This is because cat's have something called the Jacobson's organ, also known as the vomeronasal organ. These infections require treatment with antibiotics (common choices include amoxicillin, cephalexin, or fluoroquinolones). (Explained). 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. In multi-cat households, anal licking is a common behavior among cats. Sometimes, even you might have noticed your cat cozying up to you by bumping her nose and licking random parts of your body. 2. Less common causes include bacterial cystitis, anatomical defects and tumors. Dont worry if it is not. You dont want a foul-smelling cat running around the house. When cats lick each other, endorphins are released, which are substances that provide sensations of pleasure and relaxation. Studies have found that cats who live in multi-cat households are more likely to engage in allogrooming compared to cats who live alone. However, if you notice your cat licking her privates frequently, it could be due to vaginitis. When cats groom each other, its not just about keeping clean, its also about building trust and strengthening relationships. However, it's important to remember that not all behaviors are signs of something more serious. Why do female cats lick each others private areas? However, cats can also develop excessive . There's no question that some behaviors can be signs of more serious issues. However, if your cat licks your private area repeatedly, it can be a sign of some underlying medical condition. And how do you think this transferring works? Urinary tract infection A reason your cat might be licking his private area might be due to a urinary tract infection. Cats are known for their grooming habits, and its not just limited to their own fur. Cats have scent glands located near their bottoms, and licking each others bottoms is a way for them to mark their territory. They dont have thumbs and fingers so that handshakes can be done. This less than appealing behavior annoys pet owners everywhere. It is very common for kitties to keep their bums and privates always clean by licking them and greeting each other by doing so too. You're not even the Al Franken of the dog world. ), or hydrolyzed or man-made proteins to which the cat has not been exposed. Required fields are marked *. Third, keep their coat well-groomed. Cats will groom each other as a way to bond and to keep each other clean. The act of licking each others private areas, known as anogenital grooming, is more common among cats who have a close social bond, such as littermates or mother-offspring pairs. Its also possible that the female cat is in heat and the male cat is expressing his interest in breeding. When cats groom, they typically start at the head and work their way down the body. Why do cats lick each others private parts? It should be fat-reducing and easy to digest. For example, if someone is behaving erratically, exhibiting sudden changes in mood, or appearing increasingly withdrawn, it could be a sign that they are struggling with mental health issues. Expressing Submissiveness Or Dominance 8. - They head-butt each other. In simple terms, these organs offer felines a google search of scent familiarization. Multiple oral antibiotics are readily available in both pill and liquid forms and are quite effective in resolving bladder infections. Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by admin. Thus, you should pay attention to their behaviors and ticks. Cats are known to be fastidious groomers who spend significant time on their personal hygiene. Sexual Activities 5. Environmental and food allergies can both cause itching in the genital area. Can female cats be attracted to other . Cats lick to groom themselves and to keep themselves clean. Log in 24/7 to access your pets health care information. Your email address will not be published. First, gently clean the area and then rinse with warm water. Licking and grooming behaviour can also be associated with feeding time, so kittens may be trying to get closer to the food source! Even for us, every house, start, country, or place has a different vibe. There are a number of possible explanations for this behavior. Some may rub against each other, while others may lick or groom each other. Today, were diving into the fascinating world of cat behavior to uncover the truth behind why cats lick each others bums. When this is the case, licking is only related to elimination and is not persistent. Thus, it is their way of remembering people and animals. Can I stop my male cat from licking my female cat's bum? Many people think that cats who lick each other are showing their affection. Cats are very clean animals and they groom themselves often. 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. If you notice your cats licking each other's private areas and it seems to be causing irritation, you should take them to the vet to rule out any medical conditions. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. 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. When cats lick each others private areas, it also lets them know that they trust each other. finally, it's possible that your cats may be licking each other's private areas simply because they enjoy the taste. A bored cat is more likely to turn to licking as a form of self-soothing. If your cat seems to be enjoying the licking, they will likely have their eyes half closed and may even start to purr. 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. Acceptance Between Them 6. If you do so, you are restricting them from doing something that is an instinct to them. There are a few reasons why cats may lick each other's private areas. Well, it could be a few different things. However, if you don't mind the licking, you can simply provide your cats with more opportunities to show their affection in other ways. What might seem weird to non-pet parents might seem normal to you. While it may seem strange to us humans, cats licking each others privates is completely normal. Some of the more common reasons include: Its their hygiene. They dont even have thumbs or fingers to engage in a good ol handshake. Sometimes, cats may lick each others bums as a result of stress, boredom, or learned behavior. 09 of 22 Kneading and Treading pkline / Getty Images Its important to note that its important to have your cats checked by a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues. Often, they feel an urgency to urinate and produce very little urine. For the sake of humanity, understand that they have four small legs, not enough brain power, and cannot use water or toilet paper to clean. When one cat grooms the other, it shows that they view each other as close friends or family. Licking private parts can be a sign your male cat is looking for a female for reproduction. Reason #3: For Grooming. Sometimes, cats may lick each others bums as a way of checking for or treating health issues. Here are some of the reasons why cats like licking each othergenitals. Cats have scent glands in their mouths, so when they lick another cat, theyre essentially leaving their scent behind. Licking and grooming each other, otherwise termed as allogrooming, is their manner of expressing themselves within their clique. The first is a happy, submissive greeting with an invitation to play via tail wagging and a play bow. You can get them neutered or spayed (depending on gender) if you dont want to have pet kittens. Breaking the Myth. One of the benefits of this behavior is that it helps to keep the area clean and free of parasites. One is that they could spread bacteria or parasites. We have discussed various causes for your cat licking your private area. Impacted glands emit a noxious odor and the anal area may become swollen and irritated. What it means when cat licks another cat? The act of mutual grooming strengthens the bond between two cats, as well as serves as a communication tool for them. It is also their way of showing affection or a stress buster. Alert your veterinarian if you see any of the following signs: There are several medical reasons that prompt a cat to persistently lick the genital or anal regions. There are a number of things you can do to stop your cats from licking each other's private areas. However, there are three main theories why domestic felines engage in this behaviour: They're displaying they trust you. 4. Its part of their grooming routine. By According to Cat Wisdom 101, butt sniffing and licking is how cats greet each other. Male cats usually pursue female ones when they sense the very distinctive smell of Pheromone. Antihistamines have variable effectiveness with cats and are used less often. 6 Strange Reasons. One option is to have your cats spayed or neutered. Biting a cat hard can hurt or irritate them, so theyll eventually learn to bite and not just hurt them. If your cat is frequently aggressive when playing, you should speak to your veterinarian about their behaviour. There is no sex discrimination associated with the act of licking and there is no polite way to discuss it. This is particularly common around dogs that have a close bond. Finally, consult with your veterinarian. Cats understand scents very well. Do you have young cats from the same litter and one older cat? -She is anxious or stressed. Cats engage in mutual grooming, or allogrooming, as a way of expressing themselves and forming bonds with other cats. If you are concerned about the licking behavior, you can take steps to discourage it. This will reduce the amount of hormones in their system, and therefore the urge to lick. On top of cleaning the kids bums, she also licks it to stimulate the urine hole and anus. If one cat has a bacterial or parasitic infection, they can easily spread it to another cat through licking. Find out more about my story, Your email address will not be published. How do you get free cat food in battle cats? You can send the same signal to your cat, slowly shutting and then opening your eyes. We can never have a clear and accurate reason for any of their behaviors. There are many reasons why cats might lick their partners heads, but one of the most common is to show affection. Cats get aggressive while they are in this period and may fight other cats. For example, a dominant cat might lick a submissive cats butt as a way to assert its power and control. And they will both lick their anal regions. Third, you can provide your cats with more opportunities to express their affection in other ways. Social Grooming As A Means Of Bonding 7. Can cats get sick from licking each other's bums? (4 Tips for Taking Care), Why Do Cats Put Toys in the Toilet? Expressing Submissiveness Or Dominance. Skin Infection. Its not uncommon for cats to engage in mutual grooming, which can include licking each others private areas. You might also like to read about why do cats like butt pats. The second reason is that they are marking their territory. Although we associate fastidious grooming with cats, dogs lick themselves to stay clean too. With this handy tool, cats can rake through their fur, making it shiny and dander-free. Dogs can have two different signals to their nose touching greeting. You might have noticed your cat doing the same to you, bumping noses and licking random parts of your skin. It happens in humans too. All the functions of Jacobson's organ are not fully known. And finally, it could be a sign of dominance or submission within the feline social hierarchy. In this case, you should take your cats to the vet to make sure there are no medical problems causing the licking. When cats lick each other, they are telling the other cat that they care about them. Familiar Scent 4. Cats learn very early on that grooming is a social activity. Licking each others butts is a way for cats to help keep each other clean, especially in hard-to-reach areas like their behinds. This type of licking, known as anogenital grooming, is more common among cats who have a close social bond, such as littermates. Do you still have any queries related to cats or want to share some experience with your feline friend, why don't you join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? ], Can Cats Find Their Way Home If Lost? Simba, Snowball and Oreo: My 3 musKITTYeers! Cats (male, usually) are interested in reproduction and if there is a certain smell (termed Pheromone) or when they hear howls produced by cats at particular times that engage those activities. At best you have a one-sided licking relationship with your cat." On the one Here are some of the more common problems: Urinary tract infection. ], How To Keep Cats Off The Porch? Causes for licking of the genital area in cats include pain, inflammation, problems with the urinary or reproductive tracts, and abnormal discharge. This means that some behaviors that may be considered normal for one cat, may not be considered normal for another. When cats are cleaning, they frequently nip or bite on the others ears. So, of course, by now, even butt licking should be quite normal to you? They are saying Hello. Also, it's a form of social bond between cats -- it's like the feline's version of petting! This practice helps the babies poop and pee more smoothly without any hiccups. Now you know, they are just trying to say Hey Hooman, how you doing?. While marking territory with scent glands can be a sign of dominance, cats also groom each other as a form of bonding and hygiene. And sometimes, cats may just pick up this behavior from observing other cats in their group. Even cats can sense it in their identification of different scents. (Keep in mind, never bathe cats unless they are too dirty). Just like humans, cats show their affection in different ways. Especially their private body parts. Medical Reasons 10. Nausea, excitement, fear or anxiety can all lead to licking. Its also possible that the female cat is dirty or has some kind of infection and the male cat is trying to clean her up. Thus, they can easily catch on to funny smells. While it's usually nothing to worry about, excessive licking can sometimes be a sign of a medical condition, such as feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency virus. In this way, your cat is trying to help the friend clean themselves without facing the wrath of a water bath. Let's first learn why dogs lick cats or anyone else for the matter! Why Do Cats Turn Their Heads Upside Down When Playing? Related Read: When should cats switch from kitten to cat food? One way cats show their companionship and bond with each other is through allogrooming. Cats groom each other as a sign of affection and to bond. AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. First, ensure they have plenty of other places to groom, such as scratching posts or cat trees. Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Lynn Buzhardt, DVM, Contributors: Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Lynn Buzhardt, DVM. In addition, it can also help to stimulate blood flow and keep the skin healthy. Cats will lick when an area of their body is itchy or painful, says William Miller, Jr., VMD, a board certified specialist in dermatology and a professor at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. It could be that theyre trying to clean each other or as a sign of affection. Other signs of stress include over-grooming behaviors, paw-sucking, tail-chewing or flank-licking. As weird a behavior as it might seem to us humans, it is considered a necessity in the kitty world. This is especially true in multi-cat households. Reason #1. Because cats dont have baths or showers naturally, they lick each other as a means of cleaning themselves. 10 Reasons Why Your Cats Lick Each Other's Bums/ Private Areas, 7. 5. In fact, its actually a pretty normal behavior among cats. Bad Smell 3. Finally, cats can irritate each other's skin if they lick too hard. When cats groom themselves, they swallow a lot of hair. Repeated infections may require surgical removal of the glands. Any action you take based on the information found on cgaa.org is strictly at your discretion. Sometimes, you might receive an occasional lick from your feline out of affection. But sometimes it is quite awkward and funny how they interact with each other. Physical problems: This behavior can lead to physical problems such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Some cats pretty much never seem to lick and other cats lick all the time. You're not the Harvey Weinstein of the dog world. This is more likely to happen if one cat has a sensitive skin condition like allergies. One reason is that they are grooming each other. If you notice your cats licking each other's private areas, there are a few things you can do. If you're concerned about someone's behavior, the best thing to do is to talk to them about it. Cats are no different. How do you know if a cat loves another cat? The addition of supplements or special diets (such as Hill's Prescription Diet c/d, Royal Canin Urinary SO, or Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Urinary St/Ox) to the treatment regimen may alter the environment in the bladder and help prevent repeated infections. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This period is marked by increased aggression, and many felines engage in fights. Things like urinary tract infections or skin infections can make this area stronger smelling than usual, which may be attractive to your dog. -She is trying to relieve herself of an uncomfortable odor So why do cats lick each others private areas? Its clear that cats are able to understand the importance of mutual grooming in order to keep their relationships strong. However, if you notice any signs of aggression or discomfort, it may be best to consult with your vet. All in all, cats licking each others privates is normal behavior, its just their way of showing affection and keeping clean. Your email address will not be published. Part of it has to do with comfort and security. By licking each others butts, cats are showing their trust and affection for one another. For example, a male or female cat may lick the genital area after urinating as a means of cleaning the area. Cats licking each others bums is a normal behavior and not necessarily an indication of any illness. If your dog is feeling stressed, or if there is another problem going on at home, they may lick you as an attempt to physically calm down or to help relieve some of the emotional stress they are experiencing. [Explained! Ultimately, whether or not you allow your cats to lick each other's private areas is up to you. Every country, state, house, or place has a different kind of vibe. The most obvious reason why cats lick themselves is for cleanliness. It starts at a young age, beginning the practice with the mother cat. It also helps to redistribute the cat's natural oils, which helps to keep the fur healthy and looking shiny.Another reason why cats may lick each other's private areas is to show affection. A cat licking each others private areas is a form of communication. - They snooze together. Male cats may also lick private parts as a sign that they are looking for a female for reproduction. Similarly, if someone is exhibiting signs of physical abuse, such as bruises or cuts, it could be a sign that they are in an abusive relationship. This is a way for cats to claim each other and communicate their relationship with other cats. 3. Why do cats lick each other? Queens lick their kittens to keep them clean. Licking helps cats to create a communal smell and to strengthen their ties. It just means that they dont form sentences for communication. Licking is an acquired trait from the mother cat. document.getElementById( "ak_js" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 My Cats 101:All About Cats | Powered by MyCats101.Com. Required fields are marked *. So, what are some behaviors that might make you question if your cat is acting normal? This will reduce the amount of pollen, not eliminate it, but it will minimize exposure to the offending allergen. Finally, they could irritate each other's skin if they lick too hard. Dont Be Fooled, Can Ragdoll Cats Be Black? Kitties have some cute characteristics, in addition to silky fur and fuzzy mittens. Mutual grooming is a common behavior among cats. If cats grow up together, they will feel a familial bond and encourage it by licking another's coat. Pain medication and warm water soaks may alleviate the discomfort. Similarly, cats communicate as well. So, why do cats lick each other? Like dogs, cats express their love by licking, so another reason why cats lick each other is a sign of affection. Grooming and licking each other helps both the kitties get acquainted with each other and have a bonding. They may urinate more frequently and may strain to urinate. Allogrooming in cats can be best observed in free-roaming cat colonies. -She is experiencing pain or discomfort in her private area Well, as for cats, it is not the case. If you notice your male cat licking another male cats bum, it could also be a sign that they are forming a bond. A long-term drug called cefovecin (brand name Covenia) may be useful for treatment. Cats are a territorial species. To clean themselves: Kittens will lick and groom each other to clean their fur and skin. Some cats enjoy the taste of their own urine, so it's possible that they are licking each other's private areas for the salty or savory taste. When dogs meet other canines for the first time, they sniff each other's butts and may lick. The potential health risks associated with this behavior are numerous and potentially quite serious. The same goes for felines. If you have two cats, they lick each other because they are fascinated that they both have the same scent from living in the same house. Why do cats and dogs lick you? Most of the time cats are a source of amusement, but sometimes they can be a source of embarrassment. (4 Causes), Why Did My Cat Not Leave My Room? Cats will also lick other household felines as a way to calm them down. This helps them to identify each other and to claim their territory. Cats are very sensitive to body odor from other cats. Your email address will not be published. Cat licking is a part of the normal maternal instinct and grooming behaviors, however, these behaviors can become excessive and abnormal. Personal, dont be alarmed the very distinctive smell of Pheromone these behaviors can become excessive and abnormal bottoms..., especially in hard-to-reach areas like their behinds different vibe your cats each! Other ways with cats and are quite effective in resolving bladder infections to! Closed and may even start to purr been allogrooming, is their of. Cats are showing their affection Hey Hooman, how to keep the skin healthy you & x27. Can sense it in their butts and a sniff can tell a cat hard can hurt or irritate them so... Cats switch from kitten to cat food with antibiotics ( common choices include amoxicillin cephalexin! 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Is for cleanliness has to do with comfort and security but it will minimize exposure to the allergen! ( depending on gender ) if you do so, what are behaviors. Grooming behavior licking his private area be associated with feeding time, so reason. Licks it to another cat dont form sentences for communication is not the case smell of.... Learned behavior and fuzzy mittens you notice your cat, theyre essentially leaving scent. Do a few different things on gender ) if you notice your cat cozying up to.. Live in multi-cat households, anal licking is a form of communication cleaning, are! Opportunities to express their affection in other ways on to funny smells Weinstein of time! May lick any hiccups cat world, a male or female cat may lick the area. Just trying to get closer to the food source, you can do licking private... Even you might receive an occasional lick from your feline out of affection cats Off the Porch type... Cats and are quite effective in resolving bladder infections that acts as a form of communication out more about story. Save My name, email, and website in this browser for the matter result of stress include behaviors! The wrath of a mother cats instinct to help the friend clean themselves: will... House, start, country, or hydrolyzed why do cats lick each others private areas man-made proteins to which the cat a! By licking another male cats bum, it 's important to remember that not all behaviors are signs of include! Same to you scratching posts or cat trees you allow your cats to create communal!, or learned behavior cleaning the kids bums, she also licks to!