Why does a cat lick when you stroke it? - briefly
Cats often lick their fur after being stroked as a way to groom themselves and reinforce the bond with their human caregiver. This behavior is also a means of self-soothing and marking you with their scent, indicating that they consider you part of their social group.
Why does a cat lick when you stroke it? - in detail
When you stroke a cat, it often responds by licking your hand or the area being stroked. This behavior is not merely a sign of affection but is deeply rooted in feline biology and social structure.
Firstly, cats are meticulous groomers, spending a significant portion of their day cleaning themselves. Grooming helps to remove loose fur, distribute natural oils throughout the coat, and maintain body temperature. When you stroke a cat, it perceives your hand as an extension of its own body, triggering its innate grooming instincts. By licking your hand, the cat is essentially 'grooming' you, which it finds comforting and familiar.
Secondly, cats use allogrooming—the act of grooming another individual—as a form of social bonding. In feline societies, cats groom each other to strengthen relationships, reinforce social hierarchies, and promote group cohesion. When your cat licks you during petting, it is effectively acknowledging you as part of its social group, reinforcing the bond between you both.
Thirdly, a cat's tongue has tiny papillae or spines that act like a natural comb, helping to remove dirt and debris from its fur. When your cat licks you, these papillae can stimulate your skin, causing a tingling sensation. This action also releases endorphins, neurotransmitters that create feelings of pleasure and relaxation. Consequently, both the cat and the human experience a calming effect, further reinforcing the positive nature of the interaction.
Lastly, cats mark their territory using scent glands located on various parts of their body, including the paws and cheeks. When they lick you, these scent glands can deposit small amounts of pheromones onto your skin, effectively marking you as part of their territory. This behavior is a subtle way for cats to claim ownership over their environment and the individuals within it.
In conclusion, when a cat licks you while being stroked, it is a multifaceted response that encompasses grooming instincts, social bonding, sensory stimulation, and territorial marking. Understanding these underlying mechanisms provides valuable insight into the complex and fascinating world of feline behavior.