Cats Licking Lips: Reasons and Situations Explained

The Common Reasons Why Cats Lick Their Lips

1. Grooming and Removing Odors

After a meal, it's not uncommon to see cats licking their lips. This behavior serves a dual purpose: it's a way to clean and groom the fur around their mouths, as well as to rid themselves of any lingering odors from the food they've eaten. In the wild, cats would clear these scents after hunting to avoid alerting potential prey to their presence. This instinct remains in domesticated cats, who are naturally quite clean, making the postmeal liplicking a common sight.

2. Appetite Whetted

Cats often can't resist the temptation to lick their lips when they see or smell something delicious. Sometimes, this liplicking is a subtle cue to their owners that they're ready for a treat or a meal.

3. Anxiety and Fear

When cats feel anxious or scared, they might also lick their lips. This action, along with other behaviors like excessive grooming, hiding, or increased aggression, can indicate stress. Licking is a way for cats to soothe themselves, so if you notice your cat doing this often, it might be time to investigate what's causing their unease and provide some comfort to keep them calm.

4. Oral Pain

Cats with dental issues or oral pain may lick their lips frequently. They might also exhibit symptoms like drooling, bad breath, and loss of appetite. If you suspect your cat is in pain, it's important to examine their mouth for any signs of injury or inflammation.

5. Preparing for Vomiting

Before vomiting, cats often swallow and lick their lips, which can be a sign of nausea. This might be followed by actual vomiting.

6. Upper Respiratory Issues

Cats with upper respiratory problems or allergies may frequently lick their lips. If they have a stuffy nose, they might lick even more. Sneezing can also trigger this behavior.

7. Excessive Salivation

Cats that are drooling excessively or licking their lips excessively may have underlying issues such as foreign objects in their throat, tumors, stomatitis, gingivitis, oral injuries, kidney disease, upper respiratory conditions, ingestion of toxic substances, and more.

8. Dry Mouth

Cats may lick their lips frequently if they're extremely thirsty, often as a result of fever, dehydration, endocrine disorders, kidney or liver problems, or side effects from medication.

These are some of the reasons why cats might lick their lips. Pay particular attention to the latter scenarios. If you notice your cat exhibiting unusual behaviors or discomfort, it's important to check them over and, if necessary, consult a veterinarian for a thorough examination and treatment.