Anatomy of Cats
Cats are incredibly flexible creatures due to their specialized anatomy. Their spines contain more vertebrae than humans that are connected by elastic discs allowing them to easily arch, stretch, and curl their bodies (source). Cats’ collar bones are also not attached to any other bones which increases shoulder mobility (source). This allows cats to twist and turn their bodies into tight balls or pretzel-like positions with ease.
Cats also have rough, sandpaper-like tongues used for grooming. The tiny barbs on their tongues act like a hairbrush to help remove loose hair and distribute natural oils across their coat (source). This anatomical adaptation allows cats to keep themselves clean by licking most areas of their body.
Why Do Cats Groom Themselves?
Cats groom themselves for several important reasons.
Firstly, grooming helps cats keep their coats clean by removing dirt and debris. Their rough tongue helps scrape away any particles caught in their fur (Hill’s Pet Nutrition).
Grooming also allows cats to spread their scent glands located around their face, paws, and tail. This deposits pheromones that mark territory and allow for cat-to-cat communication (The Spruce Pets).
The act of licking improves circulation and keeps their coat smooth and shiny by distributing natural oils. Grooming can also help relieve stress the way nail biting does for humans.
Additionally, cats’ saliva contains antibacterial properties that keep their skin and fur hygienic when grooming (Hill’s Pet Nutrition).
Can All Cats Reach Their Private Areas?
Most cats are very flexible and have no issues twisting their bodies to reach and groom their rear ends and genitals. Cats are extremely fastidious when it comes to cleaning themselves.
A cat’s rough tongue is perfectly designed to help remove dirt, debris, and loose hair from their coat. Their saliva also contains antibacterial enzymes that help keep their skin clean and free of germs.
Licking of private areas like the genitals and anus is a normal part of a cat’s hygiene routine. Proper cleaning helps prevent infections and keeps that area odor-free.
However, overweight or less agile cats may struggle to reach all the way around to properly clean themselves. Older cats or those with arthritis may also have difficulty bending and stretching into the right positions.
Cats that cannot reach their rear ends and genitals can be more prone to matted fur, skin irritation, and infections in that area. Lack of cleaning can also lead to foul odors.
If you notice your cat straining to groom themselves, it may be a sign they need help with their hygiene. Regular brushing and grooming, especially around problem areas, can help keep these cats clean.
Is Licking Their Genitals Normal?
Licking of genitals is normal grooming behavior for cats. It helps them stay clean. Cats are fastidious groomers and they regularly lick themselves all over as part of their grooming regimen. The genital area is just another part of their body that requires cleaning. Licking helps remove dead hair, debris, and bodily secretions to keep the area clean.
Cats have rough tongues that function like brushes. The tiny barbs on their tongues help remove dirt and loose hair. So licking serves both a cleaning and detangling purpose.
Like any animal, cats also like to keep their reproductive organs clean for optimal health and hygiene. Licking is an instinctual way for them to care for this sensitive region. It is perfectly natural cat behavior.
Most cats will lick their genitals at some point throughout the day during grooming sessions. Quick genital licks during normal grooming are not a cause for concern. It just indicates your cat is following his natural cleaning routine.
When is Licking a Cause for Concern?
Excessive licking of genitals may indicate a medical issue like infection, pain or skin irritation. According to the VCA Animal Hospitals, “There are several medical reasons that prompt a cat to persistently lick the genital or anal regions.”
One of the most serious causes is a feline urinary obstruction, which is a blockage that prevents the cat from urinating normally. PetPlace.com states, “A feline urinary obstruction is the most common and serious cause of excessive licking of the genital area. The blockage can be caused by stones or plugs of material.”
Other possible causes include irritation to the penis tip, bladder stones or infection, abscesses, and anal gland issues. The Pet Health Network explains, “Some other more benign causes for excessive licking ‘down there’ include irritation to your cat’s penis tip, a bladder or urethral (the tube from the bladder to the outside) infection, bladder stones, abscesses or infections around their anus, and anal gland problems.”
If a cat is persistently licking their genitals more than seems normal, it’s important to get them checked by a veterinarian to identify and treat any underlying medical conditions.
Providing Proper Hygiene
Cats are very fastidious creatures and spend a great deal of time grooming and cleaning themselves. Their sandpaper-like tongue allows them to lick all areas of their body and keep themselves tidy. As the ASPCA notes, a healthy cat with normal mobility should be able to take care of cleaning their rear and genital areas on their own.1
However, senior cats or those with limited mobility may struggle to properly clean themselves. In these cases, gently washing the cat’s rear with a warm, damp cloth can assist in removing any fecal debris that they cannot reach themselves. Some signs that your cat may need help cleaning include:
- Dried feces stuck to the fur around the anus
- Strong odor coming from rear
- Evidence of improper urination outside litter box
- Excessive licking or irritation around anus
When washing a cat’s rear, be patient and work gently. Talk soothingly to keep them calm. Be sure to only clean areas soiled with feces and avoid over-washing, which can dry out skin and fur. If providing extra hygiene for a mobility-impaired cat, discuss options like sanitary clips and cat diapers with your veterinarian.
Litter Box Hygiene
Keeping your cat’s litter box clean is essential for your cat’s health and happiness. The litter box should be scooped at least twice daily, and more often if needed. Scooping out clumps and soiled litter on a regular basis helps control odors and reduces the chance of your cat eliminating outside of the litter box due to an unclean environment.
In addition to daily scooping, the litter box should be dumped out and cleaned thoroughly once per week using mild dish soap and water. Avoid using cleaning products containing ammonia or citrus oils, as these can repel cats. When adding new litter, fill the box with 2-3 inches of fresh litter. Cats prefer a clean, fresh surface to dig and eliminate in.
For multi-cat households, provide one litter box per cat, plus an extra box. This helps prevent bullying or domination of a litter box by one cat, and gives each cat access to a clean box. Properly maintaining your cat’s litter box by scooping daily and changing litter weekly promotes good hygiene and health (Source 1, Source 2, Source 3).
Grooming Tips
Regular grooming is an essential part of cat hygiene. This helps remove loose hair, spread natural oils through the coat, and keep fur from matting or tangling [1]. For short-haired cats, aim to brush or comb them a few times per week. Long-haired cats may need daily grooming [2].
Pay close attention to the fur around the rear end and genitals. Mats and knots here can prevent a cat from properly licking themselves clean. Use a steel comb and gently work out any tangles, using a damp cloth if needed. Never use scissors which could nick the skin. Trim longer fur in this area if your cat cannot properly groom themselves, but be very careful.
For cats unable to reach their genital area, use unscented pet wipes to help keep them clean. Gently wipe the area when needed, but avoid over-cleaning as this can disturb natural oils. Check with your vet if your cat persistently struggles with grooming their rear.
When to See the Vet
While licking their genital area is normal cat behavior, you may need to see a veterinarian if your cat is excessively grooming that area or shows signs of irritation. Some warning signs to look out for include:
- Excessive licking, scratching, or biting at their genitals
- Genital inflammation or redness
- Frequent attempts to urinate with little success
- Changes in urination habits or litter box issues (Source)
- Discharge or unpleasant odor from genitals
- Hair loss around the genitals
- Reluctance to be handled or touched near genitals
- General signs of discomfort like vocalization or aggression
These could be signs of a urinary tract infection, vaginitis, or other medical issue requiring veterinary attention and treatment. It’s important not to delay if your cat is showing any of these symptoms. Conditions like vaginal inflammation can worsen quickly without medication. Discuss any concerns with your vet right away.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about cats licking their genitals:
Is it normal for cats to lick their private parts?
Yes, it’s very normal and natural behavior for cats to lick their genitals. Cats are fastidious groomers and keeping their genitals clean is part of their normal hygiene routine, just like humans washing.[1]
Why do male cats lick their testicles?
Male cats lick their testicles to keep them clean and free of debris and odors. The groin area can accumulate dirt, sweat, and bacteria so licking helps remove those.[2]
When should I be concerned about excessive licking?
Occasional licking is normal but excessive, frequent licking may indicate a medical issue like a urinary tract infection. Contact your vet if licking seems obsessive or is accompanied by signs like straining to urinate, blood in the urine, or crying in pain.[3]
How can I stop my cat from excessively licking down there?
Determine the underlying cause first. Address medical issues, improve litter box hygiene, reduce stress, and provide more stimulation. If no medical cause, discourage the behavior by distracting your cat when they lick. Never punish them as that can cause more stress.