Cats are known for being super independent creatures, but they also love attention from their owners. Sometimes, though, cats get into trouble because they don’t realize that licking your face isn’t such a good idea.
So, why do cats lick their owner’s face? Cats are very affectionate animals, and they often enjoy cuddling or playing with their owners. Plus, they can also be pretty demanding, too!
When cats are in the mood to be affectionate with their owners, they will usually make it very clear, such as by licking their owner’s face!
Still, there are a variety of different reasons why your cat might want to lick your face. In this article today, we’re going to be talking you through all of them, so that you can get to the bottom of why your cat might be licking your face.
Keep reading to discover why this might be:
Why Does My Cat Lick My Face?
Your Cat Wants To Play
One reason why your cat might be licking your face is that your cat is trying to tell you that they want to play!
Even though cats are not known to be the most sociable of creatures, they are known to be very affectionate towards their owner, which means that they are going to be far more likely to want to play with you than anyone else.
So, next time your cat licks your face, why don’t you try and engage in a playtime session with them?
Your Cat Is Trying To Clean You
If your cat isn’t trying to play with you, then they might simply be trying to give you a clean.
Although, if your cat is trying to clean you, then they will also probably try to lick another part of your body along with your face, such as your arms. It’s also worth keeping in mind that your cat will probably be purring, too.
Your Cat Is Marking Their Territory
Another reason why your cat might be licking your face is that they are trying to mark their territory. As we’re sure you’re already well aware, cats can be very protective creatures, especially when it comes to their owners!
Your Cat Just Wants Some Affection
To follow on, if your cat is licking your face, it could mean one thing – he needs some loving! If this happens frequently, make sure you’re giving him plenty of attention every day.
You can do this by spending time with him, petting him, feeding him treats, and taking him outside on walks.
Your Cat Is Stressed Or Has An Underlying Health Condition
As a side note, if you notice that your cat is licking your lips or nose more than usual, there may be an underlying medical condition at work. It’s important to visit your vet if your cat seems to have any unusual behavior.
One of the most common reasons that a cat might lick its owner’s face is due to separation anxiety. When a cat feels anxious about being left alone, he will often seek out contact with his owner.
This can happen in many different ways, including licking their faces.
The best way to deal with this issue is to make sure that you are seeking professional medical assistance from your cat’s veterinarian.
If not dealt with correctly, separation anxiety can develop into a very serious medical issue, which is why it’s very important to make sure that you take them to the vet as soon as you can so that your vet can prescribe the proper medical treatment for your cat.
Another possible cause for your cat licking your face is that she is feeling stressed.
As we have already mentioned above, even though cats are not the most sociable of animals, they are who need lots of interaction with other members of their own species.
If your cat is lonely, then your cat might find comfort in seeking attention and affection from its owner.
How Do I Stop My Cat from Licking My Face?
You should never force your cat to stop licking your face. Instead, try these tips to help you keep your cat away from your mouth:
Keep Your Hands Busy
When your cat starts to lick your face, distract him by using your hands instead.
One way that you can use your hands to distract your cat from licking your face is to put your hands in front of your face, or alternatively pet your cat to distract them from licking your face.
Play With Toys
Use a toy to entertain your cat when they try to lick your face, and this should hopefully distract your cat from wanting to lick your face!
Feed Your Cat In Another Room
The last thing you want is for your cat to start licking your face while you’re eating dinner. Make sure you feed your cat in another room until he learns not to interrupt your meal.
Give Your Cat A Treat
By rewarding your cat for stopping licking your face, you’re teaching him that it’s okay to give up on certain behaviors.
Stop Giving Your Cat Attention
This is the most effective way to teach your cat that licking your face is unacceptable.
Whenever your cat begins to start licking your face, you should calmly respond by gently taking your cat off you, and then proceed to not pay your cat any attention for a few minutes.
This will help to show your cat that licking your face is not good behavior.
Final Thoughts
It’s normal for cats to want to spend time with their humans, but they shouldn’t be allowed to lick our faces.
If your cat licks your face, just make sure that you are using the tips above to help you train your cat to stop, and you should find that your cat stops licking your face in no time at all.
Thank you for reading, we hope that this guide has helped you!
I am aiming to shed new light on these amazing pets and hopefully change some people’s opinions on them. Also, let’s talk about wild cats - they’re just as awesome as domestic cats!
So, stay a while and learn more about domestic and wild cats from Windhaven Ocicats.
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