What does it mean if cats lick each other? - briefly
When cats lick each other, it signifies bonding, affection, and social cohesion within their group, often reinforcing trust and familiarity.
What does it mean if cats lick each other? - in detail
When cats lick each other, it is a behavior known as allogrooming, which serves multiple purposes in feline social dynamics. This mutual grooming is a sign of bonding and affection, often observed between cats that share a close relationship, such as littermates or cats that have lived together for a long time. By licking one another, cats strengthen their social ties and reinforce trust within their group. This behavior also helps maintain hygiene, as cats groom areas that are difficult for them to reach on their own, such as the head and neck. Additionally, allogrooming can serve as a calming mechanism, reducing tension and promoting a sense of security within the group. In multi-cat households, dominant cats may groom subordinate ones as a way to assert their status, while the subordinate cat accepts this as a sign of social hierarchy. However, excessive or one-sided grooming can sometimes indicate stress or underlying health issues, so it is important to monitor the behavior for any signs of imbalance. Overall, mutual licking among cats is a complex and meaningful interaction that reflects their social structure, emotional connections, and instinctual need for cleanliness and comfort.