Last updated: June 7, 2023 crystal with
Most of us love to be licked by cats, but paws may not be so welcome. Toes can be especially ticklish. But what exactly causes this behavior? Unfortunately, the answer is not simple. If your cat licks your paw, it might be because it tastes good or because it’s a little unsettling.
Maybe there is a cat around you who likes to lick your paws and is curious. Or maybe you want to stop the strange behavior. Here are some reasons why cats lick their owner’s paws and how to stop them.
6 reasons cats lick their paws:
1. It’s bath time
You may be familiar with allogrooming, which is social grooming between members of the same species. Cats groom other cats. You are not a cat, but you are family. Therefore, it is not uncommon for cats to groom themselves. I also groom my kittens and teach them how to do it. So you may think that your cat likes you.
2. Your cat wants attention
Some cats lick their parents’ paws to get their attention when they rest on the floor near their feet. Maybe he wants to play, or maybe he’s hungry. If it stops licking when you give it attention, that may be the purpose of the licking.
3. They are collecting information
Cats use their senses of taste and smell to gather information. Cats can’t ask you about their day, but they can certainly get the answer from your scent-filled feet. Licking your paws after running around outdoors can be a way for your cat to find out where they’ve gone. It’s perfectly normal and your cat just understands you a little bit more.
4. That’s how they know it’s you
The sense of smell is very important in the cat world, and as we said, the paws hold a lot of information.is around 250,000 sweat glands When a cat smells your paws, it knows it’s you. This may make your pet so happy to have you home that they want to lick and cuddle those wonderfully familiar paws.
5. A cat marking his territory
Their paws are low on the ground and are great for marking as they can tell other cats that they belong to them. It’s also a way to mark you if your cat notices you sneezing or bumping your head. This behavior is called bunting, and it is also a sign of affection that makes you smell. Jealousy can arise, as is common in homes with multiple pets.
6. Tasty feet
Your cat may find you delicious. The cat will lick the scent with interest. Your feet may be salty and smelly after a workout, but a good shower won’t stop you from licking your feet.
FAQ
Why does it sometimes hurt when my cat licks you?
It can be a little painful when your cat licks you, especially if it licks too much in one spot. You may have noticed that when your cat licks it, it feels like sandpaper, thanks to the “papillae,” which are the backward-pointing barbs on your cat’s tongue.
These thorns are actually made of the same material as claws and are perfectly designed to remove debris and dirt from your cat’s coat during grooming.
How to get a cat to stop licking its paws
If you want your cat to stop licking his paws, there are a few things you can try without making him feel unappreciated or needed. Wearing socks or slippers around the house can completely remove the temptation. Distraction is always a good strategy, and if your cat enjoys playing, pulling out the catnip or teaser can distract her from her feet.
Why is my cat attacking your paw?
Sometimes they lick before biting, and you may wonder why. If licking your cat fails to get your attention, she may turn to more violent methods to get your attention.
Paws are also perfect prey and the most accessible appendages for cats. If you’re tapping your paws while listening to a song or working at your computer, the behavior can be compellingly attractive to your cat.
final thoughts
Paw licking may seem strange to humans, but it’s normal for cats. There are many different reasons for licking, but generally cats use the nearest part of their body to try to get your attention. So the next time you see a cat’s attention on your dancing paws, if you don’t feel like licking sandpaper, meet him along the way.
Featured image credit: Beatriz Vera, Shutterstock
About the author
Ivy’s mom cat is a lively little rescue kitten who is her only child. At this point! Throughout her life, she has known the special love found in the bond she has with her cat. Having owned multiple cats, she is convinced that their love is unmatched, unconditional, and unlike any other animal. With a passion for educating the public about everything from cat biology, behavior and unique personalities, Krystal encourages all cats and their owners to live and love consciously. I am dedicated to making people aware of the importance of