Why Do Cats Clean Themselves So Much?

Cats clean themselves frequently because of a combination of health benefits and social behaviors. Cats are meticulous groomers. They can spend up to 50 percent of their waking hours cleaning themselves with their tongues, which have barb-like spines. By grooming, cats remove dirt, dust, dead skin flakes, and other debris. This behavior is also deeply rooted in their survival instincts. Cleaning the fur gets rid of odors that could potentially alert predators to their presence. This self-cleaning habit helps them stay stealthy and undetected in the wild.

Grooming also plays a crucial role in maintaining a cat’s overall health. When cats groom, they stimulate blood circulation. Grooming helps distribute sebaceous oils produced by their skin, which keeps their coat water resistant and shiny. Additionally, grooming helps cats regulate their body temperature, as the saliva cools them down.

Grooming is also a social activity for cats. Cats in the same household often groom each other as a way to bond. This behavior, known as allogrooming, reinforces social connections and reduces tension among cats. Moreover, grooming is a soothing activity for cats and helps them relax and reduce stress.