Why Does My Cat Start Licking Herself When I Scratch Her Belly?
Cats, known for their meticulous grooming habits, often exhibit unique behaviors when being pet or scratched. If your cat begins to lick herself when you gently scratch or pet her, there could be several reasons behind this action. Let's explore the possible motivations and the behaviors associated with this phenomenon.
Understanding Mutual Grooming
Cats that are friends often groom each other simultaneously. This mutual grooming is an endearing behavior that typically occurs between close and loving cats. When you pet or scratch your cat, the pleasurable feeling can trigger a similar reaction. Your cat may be trying to mimic this behavior, as your touch is akin to the touch of another cat. The sensation of being pet is associated with grooming, and your cat might be extending this delightful experience by licking herself to spread her own scent or simply to enjoy the feeling of self-grooming.
Post-Interaction Behavior
Another plausible explanation is that your cat is trying to get the cat smell all over herself again after being pet. Sometimes, when a cat is pet, it might leave a faint scent on the cat’s fur. The instinctive response in cats is to cleanse themselves by licking, as they want to remove any foreign or unpleasant scents that might have been introduced.
Additionally, the act of mutual grooming serves as a calming mechanism for cats. When you pet your cat, she might become overexcited and eager to engage with you further. Licking herself is a way for her to calm down and refocus or perhaps to maintain a sense of cleanliness, even if only in her perception.
Instinctive Grooming Behavior
Cats are usually fastidious creatures, and they spend a significant portion of their waking hours grooming themselves. So, even if you are petting them, it is natural for them to lick themselves to remove any dead skin cells, dust, or other minute debris left over from the grooming session. This behavior is a result of their natural inclination towards cleanliness and self-maintenance.
Your cat might also react to the sensation of being pet by licking. Cats may perceive being pet as a form of affection or caring, leading them to lick themselves to express gratitude and contentment. This behavior might even extend to licking you back in return, further cementing the bond between you and your cat.
Cleaning from Human Scent
It's not uncommon for cats to clean themselves from the smell of their owners after being pet. Some cats are so attentive that they might lick themselves to remove any residual scent from your hands, clothing, or the environment. This self-cleaning behavior could be driven by their desire to maintain their own unique scent, which they associate with being clean and hygienic.
Conclusively, when your cat starts licking herself after being pet or scratched, it could be due to several reasons: the desire to spread her scent, the instinct to clean herself, or simple enjoyment of the grooming process. Understanding these behaviors can help you better appreciate and nurture the special bond you share with your feline friend.