Why is the cat washing itself? Specialist answers!

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The cat licks itself several times a day. Scientists have come up with a special word - "auto-grooming." If a cat licks a fellow tribe, this is called "allogrooming".

Why is the cat washing itself?

Kittens already at an early age learn to lick both themselves and their counterparts in order to show attention or reassure. If the pet begins to lick you, it means that he has a tender affection for you. Although the touch of a rough tongue will not please everyone.

A cat can lick a dog if it gets along peacefully with it in the same house.

It is precisely the manner in which the cat licks itself that owes its reputation of "great cleanliness." There are even signs associated with washing cats. For example, if the purr washes for a long time behind the ears - it means to be in good weather. If, turning to the door, rubs his face - this is the visit of the guests.

A healthy domestic cat is regularly engaged in auto-grooming. She begins with washing the face (using the forelegs) and ends with licking the tail.

Interesting fact: Observations showed that most cats are left-handed or use both legs equally. And only one of the five cats is right-handed (uses the right foot for washing).

The washing procedure is not only useful (calms the cat, allows you to keep the coat in good condition), but can also serve as an indicator of well-being.

During washing, the cat removes dust and tiny particles of plants from the wool, unravels the hairs, thus preventing the mats from forming. It also stimulates the skin glands, so the coat becomes waterproof and does not become so dirty so quickly. In addition, these glands produce a secret that gives the cat an individual smell. And finally, vitamin D is released from the secretion of the skin glands, which gets into the cat's body when it is licked.

What in washing a cat can indicate problems?

If the cat licks more often than usual, this may indicate a skin allergy or the presence of fleas.

However, excessive licking can lead to the formation of hair balls in the stomach, which, in turn, is fraught with digestive problems.

Rarely, but, nevertheless, there are cases when cats lick themselves to baldness. This is usually associated with severe stress.

The other extreme is the complete unwillingness to look after yourself. If a cat has uncleaned hair - this is a clear evidence of poor health.

If the cat lives in comfortable conditions, it is washed after each sleep, meal, after the game or after meeting the owner. By carefully observing the pet’s behavior, including the washing process, you will be able to understand in time that the fluffy needs your help.