Why Do Cats and Kittens Lick You?

Understanding Your Cat’s Behavior

When you leave your cat with a trusted PetBae sitter, you want to know they’re getting the best care. But what if your cat starts licking their sitter—or even you—excessively? While licking can be a sign of affection, there’s more to this behavior than meets the eye.

If you’re curious about why cats lick people, this guide will explore the possible reasons, when it’s a concern, and what PetBae sitters can do to manage this behavior during cat boarding or sitting.

Why Do Cats and Kittens Lick People?

1. Marking You as Their Own

Cats are territorial creatures, and licking is one way they claim ownership. When your cat licks you (or their PetBae sitter), they are transferring their scent, reinforcing a bond, and creating a familiar, safe environment.

2. Showing Affection and Trust

Much like head-butting and kneading, licking is a sign of deep affection. When a cat licks their pet sitter, they may be signaling trust and acceptance—something that’s reassuring when using a boarding service like PetBae.

3. Seeking Comfort or Attention

Kittens especially associate licking with comfort since their mothers groomed them when they were young. If your cat licks excessively, it might mean they’re looking for reassurance—something pet sitters can address by engaging with them through play or gentle interaction.

4. Curiosity and Taste

Cats are naturally curious, and licking is one way they explore the world. Whether it’s the salty taste of skin or the scent of a new lotion, your cat might simply be investigating a new sensation.

5. Anxiety or Stress

Changes in environment—such as a new pet sitter or staying in a different home—can cause stress for some cats. Licking releases endorphins that help them relax. At PetBae, we encourage sitters to recognize signs of anxiety and use calming techniques, like pheromone diffusers or gentle petting, to help cats feel at ease.

6. Medical Issues

Excessive licking can sometimes signal an underlying medical issue, such as skin allergies or pain. If a PetBae sitter notices a cat grooming obsessively to the point of bald spots, sores, or excessive hairballs, they should inform the owner, who may need to consult a vet.

Should You Let Your Cat Lick You or Their Sitter?

For the most part, cat licks are harmless. However, here are some considerations:

• Human safety: Cats’ tongues carry bacteria, so it’s best to avoid letting them lick open wounds.
• Cat safety: Some lotions, perfumes, or topical medications can be harmful if ingested. If a PetBae sitter notices a cat attempting to lick areas where these products were applied, they should gently redirect the behavior.

How PetBae Sitters Can Manage Excessive Licking

If a cat is licking too much during a boarding stay, here are some ways sitters can help:

1. Engage in Play: Redirecting attention with interactive toys or puzzle feeders can keep cats entertained and reduce stress-related licking.
2. Provide Comfort Items: Familiar blankets, toys, or a piece of the owner’s clothing can offer reassurance.
3. Use Calming Aids: Products like pheromone sprays or diffusers can help anxious cats feel more secure in a new environment.
4. Avoid Encouraging the Behavior: If a cat licks excessively, gently moving away rather than giving attention can help discourage the habit over time.
5. Monitor for Health Issues: If licking is paired with other symptoms, such as hair loss, changes in appetite, or aggression, owners should be alerted to seek veterinary advice.

The PetBae Advantage: Ensuring a Stress-Free Boarding Experience

At PetBae, our pet sitters are trained to understand cat behaviors and provide the best care. Whether it’s ensuring a stress-free transition, engaging in positive reinforcement, or identifying signs of anxiety, our sitters go the extra mile to keep cats happy and comfortable.

So, the next time your cat licks you—or their PetBae sitter—you’ll know it’s a sign of trust, curiosity, or even love. But if the licking gets out of hand, our expert sitters know just what to do to ensure every cat has a pleasant and soothing boarding experience.