Cats are known for their grooming habits, but when you notice your cat constantly licking herself, you might start to wonder, “Why does my cat lick herself so much?”
Well, Let’s dive deep into the reasons why your furry friend spends so much time licking and grooming.
Why Do Cats Groom Themselves?
Before we get into the specifics of why your cat may be licking herself excessively, let’s cover the basics. Cats groom themselves for a variety of reasons, but primarily, it’s about keeping clean.
It’s like their version of taking a bath, except they don’t need any water! Grooming is a natural behavior, and for most cats, it’s something they do every single day.
But when does normal grooming cross the line into too much?
How Much Grooming Is Normal for a Cat?
On average, cats spend anywhere between 30% to 50% of their waking hours grooming. Yes, that’s a lot! But for cats, this is perfectly normal.
You might even notice your cat has a whole grooming routine, starting with their face, then moving on to their body, legs, and tail. It’s their way of keeping themselves in tip-top shape.
However, when grooming becomes excessive, it can indicate underlying issues.
Reasons Why Cats Lick Themselves
Cleaning and Maintaining Hygiene
Just like how we shower and brush our teeth, cats lick themselves to stay clean. They want to get rid of dirt, loose fur, or any other particles that might be on their coat.
They use their rough tongues almost like little brushes to keep their fur smooth and free from tangles.
Cooling Themselves Down
Believe it or not, licking can help your cat regulate her body temperature. Cats don’t sweat like we do; instead, they use licking as a cooling mechanism.
When your cat licks her fur, the saliva evaporates and cools her down, similar to how sweating works for humans.
Relieving Stress and Anxiety
Do you ever find yourself biting your nails when you’re anxious or pacing around when stressed? Well, cats can have similar habits!
If your cat is feeling anxious, whether due to changes in her environment, a new pet, or loud noises, she might lick herself as a way to calm down. It’s like her form of self-soothing.
Dealing with Allergies or Skin Irritations
Sometimes, excessive licking can be a sign that something is wrong with your cat’s skin. She could be dealing with an allergy, a rash, or even a flea infestation.
When cats feel itchy or uncomfortable, their first instinct is to lick the affected area. If you notice your cat focusing her licking on a specific spot, it could be her way of telling you that something’s bothering her skin.
Research from Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine highlights that cats that are excessively grooming could be dealing with dermatological issues, such as allergies or parasitic infections.
Marking Their Territory
Cats are territorial creatures, and grooming can also be a way for them to mark their scent. By licking themselves, they spread their unique scent on their body, which helps them feel secure and in control of their surroundings.
Pain or Discomfort
Sometimes, when a cat is in pain, she may lick herself to try and soothe it. If your cat is licking a specific area repeatedly, it could be a sign of discomfort.
This could be due to a wound, joint pain, or even internal issues that you can’t see. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet.
A study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery suggests that when cats excessively groom one particular area, it could indicate localized pain or discomfort.
Is Excessive Licking a Problem?
While licking is a natural behavior for cats, too much of it can signal that something’s not quite right.
Excessive licking, especially if it’s focused on one area of the body, can lead to problems like fur loss, skin irritation, and even infections.
So, if your cat is licking herself more than usual, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s going on.
When Should You Be Concerned?
If any of the following signs accompany your cat’s licking, it’s worth getting her checked out:
- Bald patches on her fur.
- Red or irritated skin.
- Frequent vomiting, especially hairballs.
- Restlessness or changes in behavior.
These symptoms can point to a more serious issue, like a skin infection, parasite, or even a mental health problem like anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in cats.
Dr. Elizabeth Colleran, a feline expert, emphasizes that if a cat repeatedly grooms one spot—such as after a surgery or due to joint pain—it’s important to investigate for possible pain or injury.
How Can You Help Your Cat?
If your cat’s excessive licking is becoming a concern, don’t worry—there are ways to help her!
Ensure a Stress-Free Environment
Cats thrive in calm, predictable environments. If you think your cat’s licking is due to stress or anxiety, try to make her environment as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
This might mean giving her more hiding spots, creating a consistent routine, or even using calming sprays or diffusers that are designed to reduce cat stress.
Addressing Skin Issues
If allergies, fleas, or skin irritations are causing the licking, you’ll want to address those issues directly.
Regular flea treatments, checking for any allergens in your home, and ensuring your cat is eating a high-quality, balanced diet can help.
You can also use soothing shampoos that are designed for cats with sensitive skin.
Visit the Vet
If your cat’s licking seems out of control and you’re not sure why, a vet visit is in order.
A vet can help diagnose underlying health issues, whether they’re related to skin, pain, or stress. Early intervention is always the best way to prevent further complications.
Conclusion
So, why does your cat lick herself so much? In most cases, it’s just part of her natural grooming routine. But if you notice any signs of excessive licking, it could point to stress, allergies, or even pain.
As a responsible cat owner, it’s essential to keep an eye on your cat’s behavior and make sure she’s happy and healthy. Don’t hesitate to consult your vet if things seem off—they’re the best resource to help your cat live her best life!