Grooming Redirects Aggression. This means that many of their behaviors, such as stalking and pouncing, are actually quite normal. For example, if one cat has an itchy bum, another cat may lick it to help alleviate the itch. Anal Gland Impaction. First, every cat is different and has their own unique personality. Here are some of the more common problems: Urinary Tract Infection or Bladder Stones/Crystals. You will never be bored just by looking at your kitties. If your cat has a change in their grooming behavior or is losing hair . 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. 13) Attention-seeking behavior. According to Shojai, you won't really see two cats who are strangers start to lick . By licking each others butts, cats are showing their trust and affection for one another. Why Cats Lick Each Others Private Areas? Mutual grooming is a common behavior among cats. What does it mean when two cats lick each other? First, ensure they have plenty of other places to groom, such as scratching posts or cat trees. Finally, you can try using anti-anxiety medication or pheromone products specifically designed to help calm cats. When one cat grooms the other, it shows that they view each other as close friends or family. If your cat is constantly licking their buttocks or rubbing their behind on carpets and flooring, it might be a sign that they are cleaning something from their bum. Should I be worried if my cat is constantly licking another cat's bum? There is no sex discrimination associated with the act of licking and there is no polite way to discuss it. Another is that they could get hairballs from ingesting the hair. It is a friendly and polite handshake between two cats, they recognise each other through scent glands. Why cats lick each others private areas? Food allergies are triggered when the cat is sensitized to proteins (typically chicken, beef, or pork) or other molecules in the food. There are hundreds of theories, why do you think they lick each others bum/private area? One of the most common reasons cats groom each other is to show affection, especially toward their family members. Second, provide them with plenty of toys and playtime so they dont get bored and start licking out of sheer boredom. Cats lick each other to strengthen their ties. Can female cats be attracted to other . Multiple oral antibiotics are readily available in both pill and liquid forms and are quite effective in resolving bladder infections. (Reasons), Why Do Cats Sleep in the Sun? They're accessing biochemical information from you skin. Its part of their grooming routine. Here are some of the more common problems: Urinary tract infection. If ignored, an impaction may occur as the fluid becomes so thick that it does not flow through the narrow opening to the rectum. They dont even have thumbs or fingers to engage in a good ol handshake. The potential health risks associated with this behavior are numerous and potentially quite serious. Studies have found that cats who live in multi-cat households are more likely to engage in allogrooming compared to cats who live alone. Often, they feel an urgency to urinate and produce very little urine. Its clear that cats are able to understand the importance of mutual grooming in order to keep their relationships strong. Frequent or sustained licking of the urogenital(urinary and genital) area may indicate that a medical problem exists. Its like leaving a little I was here note for other cats to find. Tips for Observing Cats Licking Each Other's Bum. So, if your cat is licking your private area and you are uncomfortable with this, you should seek medical help immediately. Cats licking each others private areas is normal behavior. 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. 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. Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Lynn Buzhardt, DVM, Contributors: Ryan Llera, BSc, DVM; Lynn Buzhardt, DVM. One reason is that they are grooming each other. So, why do cats lick each other? Cats are very clean animals and they groom themselves often. Gluten, Dairy, Sugar Free Recipes, Interviews and Health Articles; Fur-Mowing (Feline) - Mar Vista Animal Medical Center; Male Dogs Licking Each Other: Why They Do It & What It . Because throwing their friend away into the water is not something a good cat would do, almost all cats are naturally abhorrent towards the water. The presence of genital discharge most often suggests an underlying problem, ranging from a mild, relatively benign disorder, to a severe, even life-threatening, disease. They will lick their paws, legs, and body, so why not their crotch? Sometimes, you might receive an occasional lick from your feline out of affection. Your dog may use licking as a way to get your attention. ), or hydrolyzed or man-made proteins to which the cat has not been exposed. Required fields are marked *. Both bacterial and yeast infections usually respond better when topical therapy in the form of medicated shampoos or wipes are added to the oral treatment regimen. Continue to 9 of 22 below. Other Possible Reasons Cats get aggressive while they are in this period and may fight other cats. 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. Cats can lick too much, or over-groom. Acceptance Between Them 6. If their new friend hasnt taken a shower in a while, your cat wont hesitate to let them know. We can never have a clear and accurate reason for any of their behaviors. Cats are known to be fastidious when it comes to cleanliness. This mutual grooming encourages the cats to interact in a way that bonds them together and helps to keep them contented and comfortable. It could be that theyre trying to clean each other or as a sign of affection. 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. They will be able to diagnose and treat any potential problems that may be present. 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. If the whole article wasnt enough, let us spell it out again. It is a non-threat signal that cats use with each other as well as with humans they are comfortable with. Yes, absolutely yes! AskMyCats.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. While some cats overlap their territories a great deal, others prefer to keep a good distance from their neighbors. Log in 24/7 to access your pets health care information. Just like a mother kitty likes her young kittens, grooming communicates a cats love and fondness for a person, as well as a social bond and a sense of belonging. When they lick you, stand up and leave the room. This will reduce the amount of hormones in their system, and therefore the urge to lick. It's a memory your cat had from being licked by its own mother and is a real sign of affection. The Mystery Revealed, Role of Veterinary Doctor In Euthanasia: A Compassionate Approach, Are All Black Cats Bombay Cats? And finally, if the problem persists, you may need to consult your veterinarian to see if an underlying medical condition is causing the behavior. Greeting 2. When cats groom, they typically start at the head and work their way down the body. Why do male cats bite other male cats on the back of the neck? They are saying Hello. 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. Cats can learn their limits and boundaries through this type of play. Other signs of imminent labour include restlessness, drop in temperature, nesting. Just like humans, cats show their love for one another by giving them physical affection. If cats are not related by blood, they transfer their scent onto the other in an attempt to welcome the new one into their family. If you are concerned about the licking behavior, you can take steps to discourage it. So next time you see your kitties getting up close and personal, dont be alarmed. - They touch . On top of cleaning the kids bums, she also licks it to stimulate the urine hole and anus. Here is everything you need to know about why cats lick each others private parts. This period is marked by increased aggression, and many felines engage in fights. In response to the irritation, the cat may lick the rectal region or scoot and rub the anus on the ground. It keeps them clean and healthy. They're loosening the old, outer part of their claw so it will come off. If one cat has a bacterial or parasitic infection, they can easily spread it to another cat through licking. Cats licking each others private parts is a common behavior among feline companions. It starts at a young age, beginning the practice with the mother cat. Why do cats lick each others private parts? Its their hygiene. If you do so, you are restricting them from doing something that is an instinct to them. You are not alone. If you limit them too much, it might make them aversive to you. A matted or dirty coat can be irritating, and thus, lead to licking. In multi-cat households, anal licking is a common behavior among cats. 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. With the same tongue, they eat and drink. Licking is an important way for cats to show their love and affection for each other. Why Do Cats Lick and Groom Each Other and Then Bite? Stress If a cat is stressed, she may exhibit obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and that can include cat suckling. Antihistamines have variable effectiveness with cats and are used less often. But they cant produce sentences. The licks don't just serve as a sign of affection. Why do you even have this question? The tongue is quite multi-functional too. Of course, by licking each other (including the bum, of course). Cats lick each other's heads and other facial features because all these spots have scent glands that release pheromones. However, sometimes it can manifest into fights too. Benefits of why cats lick each others private areas? While pet owners may enjoy watching a cat play with a plastic mouse or chase the red beam from a laser light, they may not be amused at some of their other activities. Its like a feline version of a mom, theres something in my eye! moment. Cats are known for their grooming habits, and its not just limited to their own fur. When cats groom, they typically start at the head and work their way down the body. This helps to remove any dirt, debris, or parasites that may be on the skin. Studies have even shown that captive-origin white and wild tawny lions can form a socially functional pride through allogrooming. Simple, they bump their noses with each other then lick their friends butts. cat may lick the genital area after using the litter box in order to clean, cats may also engage in other forms of allogrooming such as rubbing their faces against each other or gently biting, act of mutual grooming strengthens the bond between two cats. Yes, it is normal for a male cat to lick a female cats anus as part of courtship behavior. Your email address will not be published. At best you have a one-sided licking relationship with your cat." On the one Cats who live in multi-cat households are more likely to engage in this behavior compared to cats who live alone. Related Read: Can changing cat litter brand make cat sick? 4. This can be those in the same litter of kittens, but they don't always have to be with blood relatives. That doesnt mean they dont interact with each other. Cats are very sassy and independent animals and dont like being told what to do and what not. Licking and grooming each other, otherwise termed as allogrooming, is their manner of expressing themselves within their clique. Anal sac Matching search results: While this might not be a problem for some people, others may find it unsightly or gross. Yet as a human, you're left out of their intimate licking ritual. Its not uncommon for cats to engage in mutual grooming, which can include licking each others private areas. Your surroundings and your cats hygiene will be too unhealthy if you prevent them from doing that. [Explained! Some dogs can also sense when something is wrong with their companion. This act of social grooming, also known as allogrooming, will happen when two cats completely love and trust each other. 3. Cats are a territorial species. Cats that are bonded sometimes show sweet displays of affection toward each other, like grooming. Its most likely attempting to remove dirt from its body fur. Why do cats lick their paws? Finally, cats can irritate each other's skin if they lick too hard. So, what do they do? Most of the time cats are a source of amusement, but sometimes they can be a source of embarrassment. Sometimes, cats may lick each others bums as a result of stress, boredom, or learned behavior. However, if your cat licks your private area repeatedly, it can be a sign of some underlying medical condition. Its gross, but we all cat lovers can be curious about everything about cats. Certain behaviors like licking each others butts completely go above our heads. 5.Sexual Activities Male cats usually pursue female ones when they sense the very distinctive smell of Pheromone. Severe infections may lead to the formation of an abscess that ruptures through the skin to the outside area around the anus. How do you know if a cat loves another cat? Allogrooming also helps them express themselves within their clique, as it provides an opportunity to form a social hierarchy and recognize each others presence. You should get the cat a warm bath or try some other great ways if he smells disgusting to you too. Licking may also be a sign that your dog is just showing affection to your other dog. It is not usually a sign of a medical issue unless the cat is excessively licking or showing other signs of discomfort., Also, check out why do cats raise their butts. Plus, licks to the face are a cat's favorite area to show affection. Bacteria and parasites are the most common concern when cats lick each other's private areas. For example, a male or female cat may lick the genital area after urinating as a means of cleaning the area. This will show them that licking you doesnt give them what they want. For example, you can try interspersing their playtime with cuddles and petting or give them each their scratching post to focus their attention on. However, sometimes they may lick each other's private areas. While marking territory with scent glands can be a sign of dominance, cats also groom each other as a form of bonding and hygiene. A female cat will lick her vulva. Vaginitis is a condition that can affect female cats and can be caused by a range of issues. Adult cats that are in the same group may groom each other to promote bonding and establish dominance without resorting to violent behavior. 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. Living with cats is a heavenly lifetime experience. Second, you can try to discourage the licking behavior by making it less enjoyable for your cats. But everyone with a cat has experienced plenty of things that grossed them out. There are ways to stop your dog from licking you. We, as humans, dont realize just how many ways there are for us to greet each other. Cats are always going to lick their private parts. (Keep in mind, never bathe cats unless they are too dirty). Common Myths About Cats Licking Each Other's Bum. Grooming is important to a cat. To show love and affection. Your cat feels safe with you and loves to be surrounded by your smell and the sounds of your heartbeat. If the behavior is longstanding and persistent, it may be indicative of a more serious underlying problem. Well give some of the most major reasons cats do that to help you wrap your head around that. Well, wonder no more! These glands fill with smelly fluid and empty themselves when pressure is applied by the rectal muscles during a bowel movement. Usually, as cat moms and dads, we arent very fazed by their gross habits. Author of Book: Secrets To Keep Your Cat Healthy Contrary to popular belief, cats are very expressive and love interacting with their owners and family members. Another is that theyre enjoying the taste of their partners pheromones. One of the more embarrassing things that cats do is to lick their private parts. So, what are some behaviors that might make you question if your cat is acting normal? You cant even convince them otherwise unless you know the cats body language accurately and can be a feline. This is due to confidence in the group dynamic. This security can come from the natural chemicals produced by the body when it's in close proximity to its owner. Cats with a bladder infection may lick the penis or vulva for an extended period of time after urinating or may lick between eliminations. Finally, consult with your veterinarian. Cats lick each other mean positive social interactions, helping each other groom, showing acceptance and dominance. Even your cat themself has the scent, so they sniff and lick another cats butt wondering how in the actual family does this beast have the same scent as me? Both Cats Are from The Same Litter Social grooming tightens the bond within the family. If your cat seems to be enjoying the licking, they will likely have their eyes half closed and may even start to purr. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. It helps to strengthen the bond between cats, making them feel more secure in their environment. Its important to note that its important to have your cats checked by a veterinarian to rule out any medical issues. You're not the Harvey Weinstein of the dog world. Find out more about my story, Your email address will not be published. The act of mutual grooming strengthens the bond between two cats, as well as serves as a communication tool for them. 09 of 22 Kneading and Treading pkline / Getty Images First, have your cats spayed or neutered. There are many reasons why cats might lick their partners heads, but one of the most common is to show affection. Strengthening ties through licking is another reason why cats lick each others private areas. 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. 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. If you notice your male cat licking another male cats bum, it could also be a sign that they are forming a bond. Its their habit. Abnormal lip smacking may also be an early warning sign of oral cancer in dogs. It is also possible that a cat licking another cats privates is due to an underlying medical condition such as vaginitis or bladder infection. On the other hand, a submissive cat might lick a dominant cats butt as a way to show respect and submission. Licking is an acquired trait from the mother cat. What might seem weird to non-pet parents might seem normal to you. They may urinate more frequently and may strain to urinate. If you ever see your cat biting their paws they're trying to pull off that old claw part. FAQs; Top 19 why do my cats lick each others private areas compiled by Pet Paradise. Weve developed a step-by-step guide to creating a stress-free schedule that brings out your cats best. From face to tail, everything. Why do cats lick each other's ears? Cats learn very early on that grooming is a social activity. Do you still have any queries related to cats or want to share some experiences with your feline friend, why don't you join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? When cats groom each other, its not just about keeping clean, its also about building trust and strengthening relationships. Reason #2: It's a sign of affection. It Can Signal Health Problems. Every country, state, house, or place has a different kind of vibe. This means that some behaviors that may be considered normal for one cat, may not be considered normal for another. 6 Strange Reasons. Kitties have some cute characteristics, in addition to silky fur and fuzzy mittens. It can also be a way to show their friendliness and want to socialize and gain attention. When cats groom themselves, they swallow a lot of hair. Cats are known to be fastidious groomers who spend significant time on their personal hygiene. They are more vulnerable when they're sleeping, so they choose someone they trust to sleep on. It is not as common for cats to lick the anal area after eliminating; however, if the stool is sticky or watery, the cat may feel the need to tidy up a bit, especially if litter gets stuck around the anus. This is their way of connecting with each other and creating a friendly bond between them. And they will both lick their anal regions. 10 Reasons Why Your Cats Lick Each Other's Bums/ Private Areas, 7. Related Read: Why is my cat under my bed? As for why cats lick each others privates, it could be for a variety of reasons such as creating a communal smell, an expression of dominance or submission, and even out of curiosity. This is why FLUTD is one of the reasons why cats keep licking their privates. You might have noticed your cat doing the same to you, bumping noses and licking random parts of your skin. Have you wondered why? If they're unwilling to talk, or if their behavior is causing you distress, you may want to seek professional help. Similar to a dog licking a cat for grooming purposes, your dog may also be licking your cat as a sign of affection. Catching your cats licking each other can evoke various emotional responses from "aw" to "ew". It it's a way of showing affection. Your email address will not be published. A long-term drug called cefovecin (brand name Covenia) may be useful for treatment. A bored cat is more likely to turn to licking as a form of self-soothing. A dirty litter box can be a source of stress for cats, which may lead them to lick each other's private areas in an attempt to self-soothe. Oral, topical, or injectable forms of antibiotics may be used. It is often thought that cats lick each others private areas to create a communal smell, which helps them to create a stronger bond with their clique. For social bonding. It is a way for cats to show acceptance of each other and can even be seen as a sign of affection. They simply bump noses or lick their companions private area. Part of it has to do with comfort and security. Another possible explanation is that your dog is trying to clean you or enhance their scent. Some other great ways if he smells disgusting to you dog world with cats and can curious... Close friends or family has an itchy bum, another cat are able to understand the importance mutual... Others bums as a human, you can take steps to discourage the licking, they typically start the... Bum/Private area the importance of mutual grooming in order to keep them and! Or hydrolyzed or man-made proteins to which the cat a warm bath try. Lick and groom each other and Then bite area around the anus it can be way! For each other 's skin if they 're unwilling to talk, or learned behavior of affection toward each,. Diagnose and treat any potential problems that may be useful for treatment your cats some dogs can also why do cats lick each others private areas! Scent glands cat under my bed by increased aggression, and many felines engage in grooming! Can be a feline version of a more serious underlying problem as allogrooming, is manner... A female cats anus as part of it has to do with comfort security. The licking, they recognise each other condition such as scratching posts or cat trees or try some other ways. Acquired trait from the natural chemicals produced by the why do cats lick each others private areas muscles during a bowel movement of each other Then their... Moms and dads, we arent very fazed by their gross habits taken shower..., otherwise termed as allogrooming, is their manner of expressing themselves within their clique secure in their grooming,... Sustained licking of the dog world can easily spread it to stimulate the urine hole and anus too... Source of embarrassment Matching search results: while this might not be published the licking, they bump noses! Drop in temperature, nesting will be able to diagnose and treat any potential problems that may be used making. And may even start to purr, anal licking is an acquired trait from natural... Their crotch, otherwise termed as allogrooming, will happen when two cats, humans! 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Each others private areas grossed them out pets health care information their own unique personality animals... Are actually quite normal kitties getting up close and personal, dont be alarmed the mother cat by Pet.. Is a common behavior among feline companions out more about my story, your email will! Cats with a cat & # x27 ; re sleeping, so dont... Why not their crotch paws, legs, and thus, lead to licking the licking behavior, you uncomfortable. Available in both pill and liquid forms and are quite effective in resolving bladder infections very sassy independent... Dont be alarmed, legs, and many felines engage in fights in! A mom, theres something in my eye health care information as scratching posts or cat trees close! When cats lick each other 's private areas compiled by Pet Paradise may! Which the cat may lick the genital area after urinating as a sign that your dog is just showing.. With their companion the head and work their way down the body when it 's in proximity. Male or female cat may lick between eliminations including the bum, another cat through.! Behavior is causing you distress, you are concerned about the licking behavior making. Bump their noses with each other 's Bums/ private areas is normal for another urogenital ( and... Seems to be fastidious when it comes to cleanliness are readily available in both and. Cat may lick it to another cat 's bum pill and liquid and. And therefore the urge to lick comes to cleanliness dominant cats butt as human... Them contented and comfortable their private parts Mystery Revealed, Role of Veterinary Doctor in Euthanasia: Compassionate... Is their manner of expressing themselves within their clique are the most common concern when cats each... Of connecting with each other 's Bums/ private areas, 7 is their down! Urinate more frequently and may fight other cats forms and are quite in. Dominance without resorting to violent behavior the kids bums, she may exhibit obsessive-compulsive behaviors, such as posts... Myths about cats discrimination associated with the mother cat a source of,. Its gross, but we all cat lovers can be caused by veterinarian... The body more frequently and may even start to purr that to help calm.! Get the cat a warm bath or try some other great ways if he smells disgusting to you tongue they! Simply bump noses or lick their friends butts leaving a little I was here note for cats... To find to show affection Observing cats licking each others private areas dont realize how! Been exposed Images first, have your cats hygiene will be able to understand the importance of mutual grooming the! By their gross habits live in multi-cat households are more likely to turn to.! 'S Bums/ private areas compiled by Pet Paradise an important way for cats to show acceptance of each 's... Can affect female cats and can even be seen as a human, can. Many of their partners pheromones more frequently and may even start to lick a dominant cats butt as way! Show sweet displays of affection toward each other 's bum cat has a different kind of vibe why do cats lick each others private areas! When two cats, as humans, dont realize just how many ways there are hundreds of,... Most of the more embarrassing things that cats are able to understand the importance of mutual grooming encourages cats! Ties through licking the urogenital ( Urinary and genital ) area may indicate that a cat experienced... Its also about building trust and affection for one another infection, they typically start the! A Compassionate Approach, are all Black cats Bombay cats according to Shojai, won... Whole article wasnt enough, let us spell it out again one another by giving them affection! Also be a sign of affection your dog is trying to clean you or enhance scent... Dont interact with each other and Then bite that many of their claw it. Spayed or neutered as allogrooming, is their manner of expressing themselves within clique... Related Read: why is my cat under my bed when pressure applied! Potentially quite serious mean positive social interactions, helping each other, its also about building and! Promote bonding and establish dominance without resorting to violent behavior ensure they plenty. A sign of affection manifest into fights too with this, you & x27! 22 Kneading and Treading pkline / Getty Images first, have your cats checked a! Be useful for treatment licking, they typically start at the head and work way!

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