Wednesday 22 April 2015

Behaviors of cats

If you own a cat, then you probably might have experienced its licks too. Perhaps on your face, feet and hands? This may sometimes make you wonder Why Do Cats Knead and Sneeze. Let me tell you why your cat behaves like this. 

As an owner, you will certainly know how your cat’s behavior changes. If you happen to see your cat licking excessively and indifferently then soothe your kitty. Give her a nice clean bath and take her to the vet so that her skin is examined. If there are any problems noticed in its fur, have the right treatment done at the right time.


The first things kittens experience before they open their eyes is their mother licking and washing them. Grooming is a sign of love and caring but they also get a lot of information through licking. They start to explore the world through their tongue. Kittens also learn to associate licking or being licked with the safe, secure feeling they have around their mother when they are still little.
This could mean that if a cat is licking you, he is grooming you and also accepts you and wants to take care of you–he loves you. Grooming is a form of social interaction. Some cats might like the salty taste of your skin, but it could also be the hand lotion you just put on. Or the taste of your shower gel. They may also be trying to get rid of the weird taste you have on your skin.

Behavior

When your cat keeps licking you–even keeping you awake at night–you might consider options to stop this behavior.
§  Spray a bit of bitter apple or citrus fruit on your face. Cats hate the taste (watch out for your eyes).
§  Make things more appealing to them. For example: You can place a warmed blanket by your feet. They may prefer the warmth of the blanket to licking your hands.
§  Praise good behavior. You can do this with treats or just simple petting. But every time your cat licks you, you ignore him. If he doesn’t lick you for about ten seconds, you praise him.
§  You can also distract your cat. If you figure out he is grooming you because he is bored, go play with him.

Besides showing their love and affection by licking, there can be something beyond too. When your cat licks in excess, remember that it is a red sign. The first thing kittens experience before even opening their eyes is their mom licking & washing them. Undoubtedly, grooming is a sign of affection, feeling secured and care but excess licking could mean that it is in pain. For instance, if you have a cat that has never shown you such affection until now but all of a sudden starts licking you or your clothes then pay attention. This is the time when you have to change its behavior.
Cats begin to lick vigorously when they have
  • Skin Irritations
  • Insect Bites
  • Fleas
  • Infections

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