What does it mean when a cat licks its owner's face and hands?

When a cat licks its owner's face and hands, it usually means one of the following: expressing love, claiming ownership, helping the owner clean, or seeking help. As long as the cat has no other abnormal behaviors, the owner doesn't need to worry too much. However, if the cat is also showing signs of lethargy, loss of appetite, and weight loss, it may be sick and trying to seek help from its owner in this way. In this case, the owner should take it seriously and take the cat to the pet hospital for inspection and treatment as soon as possible to avoid the illness from worsening.

Expressing love

Cats express their liking for each other by licking each other's fur. If a cat trusts you, it will actively lick your face and hands. At this time, the owner can also stroke the cat's head, which will make it even happier and help deepen the bond between the cat and the owner.

Claiming ownership

Cats have a strong sense of territory and will mark their scent on objects or territories they fancy. When a cat licks its owner's face and hands, it is actually claiming ownership, leaving its scent on the owner to let other cats know that they are its owner.

Helping the owner clean

Cats are very clean animals and often clean themselves by licking their fur. If a cat smells something on the owner's body and thinks their face and hands are dirty, it might try to clean them.

Seeking help

If a cat suddenly starts licking its owner's face and hands frequently, it may be sick and trying to seek help in this way. In this case, the owner should pay attention to the cat's physical, mental, and appetite condition. If any abnormalities are found, such as weight loss, lethargy, and decreased appetite, the cat should be taken to the pet hospital for inspection and treatment promptly to avoid delays in treatment.