Source: The Science Focus
Cats are renowned for their licking behavior, spending a significant portion of their waking hours grooming themselves. While licking serves various purposes for felines, including social bonding, the reasons behind why they lick humans remain uncertain. Scientists propose several theories: it could signify trust, as cats transfer behaviors learned from maternal grooming to humans they trust; alternatively, they might be gathering biochemical information from human skin or marking humans as possessions by depositing their scent.
Contrary to common belief, licking doesn’t necessarily indicate love or attachment; rather, it reflects the cat’s perception of competition and ownership. Studies, such as one by the University of Lincoln, suggest that cats may not form secure attachments to their owners, behaving similarly with strangers. Dr. David Sands, an expert in animal psychology, explains these behaviors, shedding light on feline tendencies and motivations.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.sciencefocus.com/nature/why-do-cats-lick-people