Dangers of Licking Cats
Licking cats can expose humans to a variety of health risks. Cat saliva contains bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that can cause illnesses. One of the most concerning is Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can lead to toxoplasmosis infection in humans if accidentally ingested. Toxoplasmosis can cause flu-like symptoms and potentially serious complications for pregnant women or those with compromised immune systems.
Cat saliva also contains bacteria like Pasteurella multocida and Bartonella henselae, which cause diseases known as cat scratch fever and cat scratch disease. These bacteria can infect open wounds and lead to swollen lymph nodes, fever, and fatigue in humans. Viruses like rabies are also present in cat saliva and can infect humans through bites or scratches.
Allergens in cat saliva can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals as well. Symptoms may include rashes, hives, runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes upon contact. The proteins Fel d 1 and albumin are common cat allergens. Those with asthma may also experience wheezing or difficulty breathing when exposed.
Fungal infections like ringworm are readily passed between cats and humans through direct contact. Ringworm causes ring-shaped rashes on the skin. Other fungal diseases cats can transmit include cryptococcosis and sporotrichosis.
For these reasons, it’s best to avoid licking cats or letting them lick open wounds. Children and immunocompromised individuals are at highest risk of developing illnesses from cat saliva exposure. Proper handwashing after touching cats can help reduce disease transmission.
Why Cats Groom Themselves
Cats groom themselves for a number of important reasons. According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, cats groom to remove dirt and debris from their coats and distribute natural skin oils across their fur (Source). The rough surface of a cat’s tongue helps lift dirt, loose hair, and dander. Frequent grooming keeps the coat clean, smooth, and free of knots and tangles.
In addition to cleanliness, grooming stimulates blood flow and circulation (Source). The repeated motion of licking brings blood to the surface of the skin and promotes overall skin health. Grooming can also help regulate a cat’s body temperature through stimulation and evaporation.
Grooming provides cats with comfort and stress relief as well (Source). The rhythmic nature of licking and grooming releases endorphins that calm and soothe cats. When anxious or stressed, cats may over-groom as a self-soothing mechanism, similar to nail-biting in humans.
Cat Saliva Composition
Cat saliva is composed primarily of water, making up 70-74% of its contents [1]. It also contains enzymes like amylase to help digest starches and lysozyme to break down bacterial cell walls [2].
Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride are present to help hydrate the oral cavity. The concentrations of these electrolytes are much lower than in human saliva [3].
Importantly, cat saliva contains compounds that give it antimicrobial properties to help prevent infections. The enzyme lysozyme destroys bacterial cell walls by breaking down peptidoglycans [4]. Lactoferrin is an iron-binding protein that starves bacteria of iron they need to proliferate [5]. Immunoglobulins like IgA also help control microbes [6]. Cats deficient in these protective compounds may be more prone to oral diseases.
In addition to water and enzymes, cat saliva includes proteins like Fel d 1, a major cat allergen, that causes issues for people sensitive to cats [7]. Understanding the composition of cat saliva can help better manage a cat’s oral health and interactions with humans.
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6420349/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24226190/
[3] https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/241/10/javma.241.10.1221.xml
[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/lysozyme
[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/lactoferrin
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21515164/
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fel_d_1
Cat Bathing Best Practices
As grooming experts advise, there are some key best practices to follow when bathing cats to ensure the process goes smoothly. First, be sure to use warm, not hot, water, as cats are sensitive to temperature extremes. The water should feel pleasantly warm to your inner wrist or elbow but not hot. Avoid getting water in your cat’s ears and eyes as this can cause discomfort or infection. Thoroughly dry your cat afterward, taking extra time to fluff and brush their fur when towel drying.
Giving your cat positive reinforcement with treats and praise during and after bathing can help make it a more relaxing experience for both of you. Start slow, keeping initial bath times brief, and gradually build up your cat’s tolerance. Remaining calm and using a soft voice will help set your cat at ease. Following these best practices will make bath time less stressful for you and your feline friend.
As experts from Chewy advise: “Wet your cat from the ears back to reduce stress levels,” and “Rinse, rinse, rinse, repeating until all soap residue is gone.” https://be.chewy.com/how-to-bathe-a-cat-step-by-step-tips-from-a-professional-groomer/
When Licking May Occur
Licking can occur in kittens as a natural part of their grooming and bonding with their mother. Mother cats lick their kittens for the first few weeks to groom them and show affection [1]. This licking and grooming behavior serves to strengthen the bond between mother and kitten.
Many cats will continue this licking behavior into adulthood with humans they trust and feel bonded to. It is a sign of affection that originates from their early experiences being groomed by their mother [2]. When an adult cat licks a trusted human companion, it is showing social grooming behavior and trying to create a closer bond.
Dangers of Human Saliva to Cats
While many cat owners may show affection to their feline friends by kissing or allowing licking, human saliva can actually be quite dangerous to cats. One of the main risks is transmittance of bacteria and viruses found in human saliva that cats may have no immunity to.
Human saliva contains bacteria and viruses like Pasteurella, Capnocytophaga, Streptococcus, hepatitis, herpes simplex, and influenza that can be harmless to humans but extremely harmful if transmitted to cats. Pasteurella in particular can cause painful abscesses and respiratory infection in cats.
Another potential risk is toxins from toothpaste and mouthwash chemicals. Ingredients like xylitol and fluoride can be toxic to cats if ingested. Allowing a cat to lick toothpaste off a human’s lips could lead to poisoning.
For these reasons, cat owners are advised to avoid kissing, sharing utensils, or allowing licking after using oral care products. It’s also recommended to wash hands before and after interacting with cats. While showing affection to feline friends is understandable, owners should be aware of the potentially dangerous health risks of human saliva to cats.
Ethical Considerations
When considering whether to lick a cat, it’s important to think about ethics and respecting the cat’s boundaries. Licking a cat without consent can be seen as overstepping boundaries and making the cat uncomfortable. Cats generally do not enjoy being licked by humans in the same way that they lick each other. The reasoning behind this is that:
- Cat saliva differs in composition from human saliva and can contain bacteria and enzymes that may irritate a cat’s skin if licked excessively by a human.
- Licking is part of social grooming behaviors between cats, but humans licking cats does not carry the same meaning and can feel unfamiliar or overstimulating for a cat.
- Licking a cat against their wishes or without reading their body language can be stressful and seen as harassment.
It’s best to avoid licking cats entirely. If a cat licks you, taking that as a sign of affection is fine, but reciprocating by licking them may violate the cat’s boundaries. There are other better ways to bond with cats, such as petting, playing, and positive reinforcement training.
The bottom line is licking cats without a medical need and without consent is unethical. Always respect a cat’s boundaries and comfort levels. Excessive licking from a human can overstimulate them. It’s best to find other ways to interact positively.
Better Ways to Bond
While licking cats is not recommended, there are many positive ways to form a strong bond with your feline companion. Focusing on respectful interaction through petting, treats, playtime, and giving them space when needed can lead to a lifelong friendship.
Gentle petting on the head, cheeks, chin, and base of the tail when your cat approaches you helps build trust and affection. Let them rub and sniff your hand first so they feel safe. Treats can also encourage bonding, but give them in moderation to avoid overfeeding.
Dedicate playtime each day with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, balls, and puzzle feeders. This stimulates their natural hunting instincts. Make sure they have vertical spaces like cat trees and high perches. Cats feel more secure with places to climb, scratch, and perch up high.
Finally, give cats their own space sometimes. Unlike dogs, cats are more independent so don’t force interactions if they seem reluctant. Let them come to you on their own terms. With time and positive reinforcement, you can develop a strong lifelong bond.
Signs a Cat Dislikes Licking
Cats clearly demonstrate when they are unhappy or dislike something through their body language, vocalizations, and behaviors. Here are some common signs a cat may display if they do not like or want to be licked:
Hissing: One of the most obvious signs a cat does not like being licked is hissing. Hissing is an aggressive vocalization that signals a cat is unhappy, scared, or angry. If a cat hisses when being licked, it’s a clear sign to stop.
Scratching: Cats may react defensively by scratching if they feel threatened or bothered by licking. Scratching is meant to startle whatever is causing them distress. Claw marks on human skin after attempting to lick a cat indicates the cat felt provoked.
Hiding: Cats often hide when frightened or overwhelmed. A cat that hides under furniture or in enclosed spaces when licked may be trying to escape the unwanted contact. Hiding shows they are uncomfortable with the situation.
Tail swishing: Agitated tail swishing demonstrates a cat’s irritation. A cat swishing its tail forcefully when licked does not appreciate the contact. It’s a warning to stop or risk being scratched or bitten.
Ear flatness: Flattened ears signal a cat feels threatened or angry. If a cat pins its ears back when licked, it likely feels annoyed, frightened, or mad about the licking.[1] Pay attention to their body language and cease licking to avoid stressing out or upsetting the cat further.
[1] https://www.tuftandpaw.com/blogs/cat-guides/the-definitive-guide-to-cat-behavior-and-body-language
When to Contact a Vet
If your cat is exhibiting any unusual behavior changes, injuries, or signs of infection, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away. Some concerning signs that warrant a vet visit include:
– Repeated vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours (TandC Vets)
– Sudden loss of appetite or refusal to eat for more than 12-24 hours (Freeport Vet)
– Lethargy, weakness, or inability to stand or walk properly
– Labored breathing or respiratory distress
– Wounds, abscesses, or signs of infection like swelling, redness, discharge or fever
– Straining or trouble urinating
– Crying or vocalizing in pain
– Having seizures or collapsing
In all cases, trust your instincts. If your cat seems ill, in pain, or their behavior changes dramatically, don’t wait – contact your veterinarian right away. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health.