Why do cats bite and then lick? - briefly
Cats often bite and then lick as a form of communication or affection, mimicking behaviors from kittenhood when they interacted with their mother and siblings. This sequence can also signal overstimulation or a mix of playful and soothing actions.
Why do cats bite and then lick? - in detail
Cats exhibit a behavior where they bite and then lick as a complex interplay of instinct, communication, and social bonding. This behavior can be traced back to their wild ancestors, who used similar actions during hunting and grooming. When a cat bites gently, it often mimics the way they would handle prey in the wild. This is not necessarily aggressive but rather a natural instinct tied to their predatory nature. Following the bite, licking serves multiple purposes. Primarily, it is a grooming behavior, as cats are meticulous about cleanliness. Licking helps to soothe the area they’ve bitten, whether it’s their own fur, another cat, or even a human. In social contexts, licking is a sign of affection and trust. When cats lick each other, it reinforces social bonds within a group, a behavior known as allogrooming. When directed at humans, it can indicate that the cat sees you as part of their family or social circle. Additionally, this sequence of actions can be a way for cats to assert dominance or establish boundaries in a non-threatening manner. The bite serves as a mild reminder, while the licking softens the interaction, maintaining harmony. In some cases, this behavior may also be linked to overstimulation. Cats have sensitive nervous systems, and when they become overly excited or stimulated during petting or play, they may bite as a way to communicate their discomfort, followed by licking to self-soothe or apologize. Understanding this behavior requires observing the context and the cat’s body language, as it can vary depending on the situation and the individual cat’s personality.