Why Does My Cat Lick My Blanket and Purr?
Many cat owners have observed their feline friends licking blankets while simultaneously purring. This seemingly unusual behavior can actually tell us a lot about a cat’s emotional state, instinctual behaviors, and even its past experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the various reasons why cats exhibit this endearing, albeit curious, behavior.
1. Comfort-Seeking Behavior
Licking soft materials like blankets while purring is typically associated with feelings of comfort and security. For many cats, this behavior is reminiscent of their kittenhood—suckling and kneading against their mother. Blankets provide a soft, warm texture that can closely mimic a mother's fur.
- Mimicking nursing: Just as kittens suckle while kneading and purring, adult cats may replicate this when they feel relaxed.
- Memory response: Especially in cats that were weaned too early, licking blankets may be a self-soothing remnant of early habits.
2. A Sign of Bonding and Affection
Licking behaviors, in general, are ways cats bond with each other and their humans. If a cat licks your blanket, especially one that smells like you, it may be showing affection indirectly.
- Scent association: Cats have highly developed olfactory senses. If your scent is on the blanket, your cat may lick it as a way of bonding with you.
- Purring as a love signal: The purr further signals contentment and happiness.
3. Stress Relief
Much like people bite their nails or fidget, cats can develop behaviors that help them manage stress. Licking—and the rhythmic action that comes with it—can release endorphins that calm and soothe your cat.
- Routine changes: A recent move, new family member, or change in environment could trigger these coping mechanisms.
- Temporary obsession: If the behavior is short-lived and context-specific, it is usually harmless.
4. Compulsive Licking
In some cases, the combination of purring and blanket licking might signal a compulsive behavior. This is especially true if your cat does it excessively or appears agitated when interrupted.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): Felines can suffer from OCD, which sometimes manifests as excessive licking.
- Veterinary diagnosis: If you suspect your cat is licking compulsively, it’s worth consulting a vet or animal behaviorist.
5. Teeth and Oral Issues
Some cats may lick soft surfaces because of dental discomfort. The soft texture of a blanket may soothe sore gums or teeth.
- Check for signs: Bad breath, signs of pain while eating, or reluctance to chew food may point to dental issues.
6. Instinctual Behavior
Cats may also display this behavior due to instinct. In the wild, cats spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves and their surroundings. Licking the blanket might be a way for some cats to ‘mark’ the item as their own through scent and saliva.
- Territorial behavior: Cats have scent glands in their saliva, so licking transfers their scent onto familiar objects.
When to Be Concerned
While licking blankets and purring is usually harmless, keep an eye out for these warning signs:
- Excessive licking that leads to bald patches or damage to the blanket
- Signs of stress like hiding, aggression, or loss of appetite
- Licking hard or inedible objects persistently (which could signal pica)
If any of these signs become frequent, a conversation with your veterinarian is recommended to rule out medical or behavioral concerns.
How to Redirect the Behavior
If the licking becomes problematic, consider redirection rather than punishment. Some strategies include:
- Interactive toys: Keep your cat stimulated with puzzles and feather wands.
- New textures: Offer designated ‘licking’ blankets or stuffed toys filled with catnip.
- Scheduled playtime: Routine and activity can help reduce boredom-derived behaviors.
Conclusion
In most cases, when a cat licks your blanket while purring, it's simply expressing contentment, seeking comfort, or showing affection. Understanding your pet’s behavior not only deepens your bond but also helps you identify when something may be amiss. So the next time your cat curls up with your favorite blanket and starts purring and licking, you can rest assured they’re feeling safe, loved, and at home.
