Why Does My Cat Lick My Other Cats Bum? [Causes & Remedy]

As a cat owner, you may have observed some curious behaviors among your feline companions—one of the most perplexing being when one cat licks the bum of another. While this might seem like an odd or unpleasant action, it is a relatively common occurrence in the feline world, and understanding the reasons behind it can help you better navigate your pets’ social dynamics and health. Cats, by nature, are creatures of habit and have a unique way of communicating and interacting with one another. Their behavior is driven by instinct, social structure, and sometimes even underlying health concerns. In this in-depth exploration, we will examine the reasons behind why your cat licks your other cat’s bum, the potential causes, and when this behavior becomes a cause for concern. Additionally, we’ll provide advice on how to respond as a cat owner and when it’s time to seek professional veterinary care.

Why Does My Cat Lick My Other Cat’s Bum?

To understand why your cat might lick the other cat’s bum, it’s essential to first understand the role of grooming in feline behavior. Cats are meticulous groomers and spend a significant portion of their time cleaning themselves. However, grooming is not solely about hygiene. It is a social activity, a way of bonding, and a method of marking territory. The act of licking another cat’s bum is often seen as part of this grooming ritual, particularly in cats that share a close social bond.

A cat’s bum area, known as the perineum, is rich in scent glands that produce pheromones and other important chemical signals that cats use to communicate with each other. By licking this area, cats may be engaging in a form of social interaction that helps them establish bonds, reinforce hierarchy, or simply share the pleasure of grooming. But not all instances of bum-licking are purely social or harmless; there are other factors to consider, some of which may be related to the cat’s health or hygiene.

Common Reasons

There are several common reasons why a cat might lick another cat’s bum. Understanding these reasons can help you distinguish between normal behavior and potential problems.

1. Social Bonding and Grooming Rituals: Cats are social creatures, and grooming each other is a way to reinforce their relationship. When one cat licks another’s bum, it may be part of an established grooming routine that helps them bond. This behavior can often be seen between closely bonded cats, such as siblings or cats that have been living together for a long time. It’s an instinctual way of saying, “I trust you,” and maintaining social cohesion.

2. Establishing Hierarchy: Cats in multi-cat households have a well-defined social structure. The more dominant cat might groom or lick the less dominant cat’s bum as a sign of authority or affection. Alternatively, the submissive cat might lick the dominant cat’s bum as a sign of respect or submission. This grooming ritual can reinforce their roles within the social hierarchy, maintaining balance and peace within the household.

3. Scent Marking: Cats rely heavily on scent to communicate, and their bum area contains scent glands that emit unique pheromones. When a cat licks another’s bum, they may be marking that cat as part of their territory or reaffirming their relationship. This is especially common in situations where cats are getting to know each other or living in a shared space.

4. Health-Related Reasons: Sometimes, a cat may lick another cat’s bum out of concern for hygiene or health. Cats, especially those with longer fur, may need assistance in cleaning themselves. If the cat being licked is unable to groom itself effectively—perhaps due to obesity, age, or physical limitations—the other cat may step in to help. In some cases, the cat might also be trying to clean up fecal matter or an odor that’s bothering them.

5. Sexual Behavior: Although less common, especially in neutered cats, some instances of bum licking can be related to sexual behavior. Male cats, in particular, might engage in this behavior as part of courtship or mating rituals. This behavior should be closely monitored, as it may indicate a potential need for spaying or neutering if it occurs in intact cats.

When To Be Concerned

While cat-to-cat bum-licking is usually harmless, there are situations where this behavior might indicate a health issue that requires attention. As a cat owner, it’s important to know when to be concerned.

1. Excessive Licking: If one cat is constantly licking another’s bum to the point of causing discomfort, redness, or injury, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. This may include obsessive grooming behavior or anxiety that is manifesting through over-grooming.

2. Changes in Behavior: If a cat suddenly starts licking another cat’s bum when it didn’t previously, or if the licking becomes more aggressive or frequent, it may indicate stress, territorial issues, or health problems. This is particularly true if one of the cats is showing signs of distress or discomfort during the grooming session.

3. Signs of Illness or Infection: If the cat being licked develops signs of infection around the anal area—such as swelling, redness, unusual discharge, or a foul odor—it may be suffering from an anal gland issue or another medical condition, such as diarrhea or parasites. Licking an infected area could exacerbate the problem.

4. Inconsistent Grooming: If the cat that is being licked does not groom itself at all, has a visibly unkempt coat, or seems to struggle with grooming its bum, it may be a sign of a health issue like arthritis or obesity that prevents proper self-care. The other cat may be stepping in to help, but it could indicate a bigger problem for the cat who needs assistance.

How To Respond As A Cat Owner

As a cat owner, your first response should be to observe the situation carefully. Is the behavior happening regularly? Are there any signs of discomfort or injury? Here are some tips on how to respond:

1. Monitor the Interaction: Pay attention to how the two cats interact. If they are engaged in mutual grooming without signs of stress or aggression, there is usually no cause for concern. If the licking is accompanied by signs of anxiety or distress, it may be worth investigating further.

2. Ensure Proper Hygiene: Keep an eye on the hygiene of both cats, especially around the bum area. If one cat appears to be struggling to keep clean, you might need to help by trimming hair or using pet-safe wipes to maintain cleanliness. Regular grooming for all cats is essential to avoid buildups that might lead to health problems.

3. Address Stress or Behavioral Issues: If the licking seems to be a sign of stress or anxiety, consider environmental factors that might be contributing to it. A change in the household, a new pet, or a lack of stimulation could cause the cats to act out. Ensuring that each cat has its own space, toys, and activities to engage with can help reduce tension.

4. Provide a Healthy Diet: Ensure that both cats are eating a balanced and healthy diet. Sometimes, gastrointestinal issues that lead to poor hygiene in the bum area can be addressed by improving the cat’s diet.

When To Consult A Veterinarian

If the behavior becomes concerning, or if you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to consult a veterinarian:

• Swelling, Redness, or Discharge: Any signs of infection or irritation around the anal area should be evaluated by a vet to rule out issues like anal gland problems, parasites, or infections.
• Excessive Licking or Aggression: If the licking becomes obsessive or aggressive, or if it’s causing distress in one of the cats, a vet can help determine if there is an underlying behavioral or medical issue.
• Health Problems: If one of the cats is showing signs of being unable to groom itself properly, such as an unkempt coat, difficulty moving, or gastrointestinal problems, a veterinarian should assess its overall health and provide treatment.

Conclusion

While the act of one cat licking another cat’s bum might seem odd at first, it’s typically a normal part of feline behavior, whether driven by social bonding, grooming needs, or even health-related reasons. Understanding why this occurs can help you better assess whether it’s simply a harmless interaction or if it might indicate something more serious. Always observe the behavior and look out for any signs of discomfort, health issues, or excessive licking, and know when to seek veterinary advice. By taking a proactive approach to your cats’ interactions and health, you can ensure they maintain both good hygiene and a harmonious social relationship within your home.

FAQs

Why Does My Cat Lick My Other Cat’s Bum?

Cats may lick each other’s bums as part of social behavior. This can be a sign of grooming, which is important in maintaining their hygiene and social bonds. Cats in a household often form close relationships, and mutual grooming helps to strengthen these bonds.

Is It Normal For Cats To Lick Each Other’s Bum?

Yes, it is normal. Cats groom each other as part of their social structure. This behavior is typically seen between cats that are comfortable with each other, and it serves both a hygienic and bonding function.

Does Bum Licking Mean My Cat Is Being Affectionate?

Yes, in many cases. Cats lick each other’s bums as an expression of affection and trust. It’s a way to show care and respect, similar to how cats may groom each other’s fur.

Can Cats Get Diseases From Licking Each Other’s Bum?

There is a small risk of transferring parasites, bacteria, or viruses if one of the cats is infected. However, this is relatively uncommon if both cats are healthy and regularly treated for parasites. It’s always a good idea to monitor their health and consult a vet if needed.

Why Does My Cat Lick My Other Cat’s Bum After They Eat?

Cats may engage in grooming behaviors right after eating as a way to clean themselves or each other. This can also be part of their natural routine to keep each other tidy and free from food debris.

Should I Be Concerned If My Cat Licks My Other Cat’s Bum Excessively?

Excessive licking may be a sign of stress or an underlying health issue. If the licking seems excessive or is accompanied by signs of irritation, discomfort, or aggression, it’s worth consulting a vet to rule out any medical concerns.

Is Bum Licking A Sign Of Dominance In Cats?

Bum licking is generally not a sign of dominance but rather a social behavior related to grooming. While cats do engage in dominance behaviors, licking is more associated with friendship and mutual care.

Do Cats Lick Each Other’s Bum As A Sign Of Submission?

In some cases, bum licking can indicate submission or deference, especially if one cat licks the other’s bum in a lower position. However, this is just one possible interpretation, and the context of the cats’ relationship is important.

What Should I Do If My Cat Starts Licking My Other Cat’s Bum More Often Than Usual?

If the behavior seems to be occurring more often than normal, it may be helpful to observe whether other behavioral changes are occurring. Monitor for signs of stress, anxiety, or possible infection in either cat. If concerns persist, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Can Bum Licking Lead To Behavioral Problems In Cats?

In most cases, bum licking is a natural behavior and does not lead to behavioral problems. However, if it becomes excessive, it could be a sign of stress, anxiety, or an underlying medical condition. Regular vet checkups can help ensure that both cats are healthy and their social dynamics are functioning well.