Why does a cat bite itself when it washes? - briefly
Cats often bite themselves while washing as a means of removing loose fur and dirt from their teeth. This behavior is instinctual and helps maintain their oral hygiene.
Why does a cat bite itself when it washes? - in detail
Cats are known for their meticulous grooming habits, spending a significant amount of time licking and biting themselves to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. While this behavior might seem unusual or even aggressive to humans, it serves several important purposes in feline life.
Firstly, cats use their tongues as natural brushes to remove dirt, loose fur, and other debris from their coats. The tiny papillae on a cat's tongue act like small hooks, efficiently trapping and removing unwanted particles. During this grooming process, cats often bite or nibble at their fur. This action helps to dislodge matted fur or tangles that the tongue alone cannot remove. It also aids in the distribution of natural oils from the cat's skin throughout its coat, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and glossy appearance.
Secondly, biting during grooming can be a form of self-soothing and stress relief for cats. The act of gently nibbling at their fur releases endorphins, natural chemicals that produce a calming effect similar to when humans pet their cats. This behavior can help cats manage anxiety or tension, making them feel more relaxed and content.
Additionally, grooming is a social activity among cats. When kittens are young, their mothers and littermates groom them to encourage bonding and teach proper hygiene habits. As adult cats, they continue this practice as a way of strengthening relationships within their colony or household. Biting gently during grooming sessions can reinforce these bonds by mimicking the gentle nibbles that kittens receive from their mothers.
Lastly, cats may bite themselves during grooming to mark their territory or claim ownership over an area. Feline saliva contains pheromones that act as natural scent markers. When a cat bites and licks its fur, it leaves behind these pheromones, which can help deter other animals from encroaching on its space. This behavior is particularly common in multi-cat households where cats may feel the need to assert their dominance over specific areas or objects.
In conclusion, while a cat biting itself during grooming might seem peculiar to humans, it serves multiple beneficial purposes for felines. From removing dirt and distributing natural oils to providing stress relief and reinforcing social bonds, this behavior is an essential part of a cat's daily routine. Understanding the reasons behind this action can help pet owners appreciate their cats' grooming habits even more and provide them with the support they need for a happy and healthy life.