Why does my cat lick my face?

Updated 11/09/2024

As much as we adore our feline family, we must admit, they do have some weird behaviors. But that’s okay! Their furry brains just work a little differently and that’s why we love them. Sometimes, however, it would be nice to understand their choices a bit more, for example: Why does my cat lick my face?

While many of us know there are different reasons for cats licking themselves, it’s a different story when they decide to lick you. Is it because you are the chosen one? Do they just like the taste of your moisturizer? Or perhaps you accidentally wiped cat food on your face? Well, let’s look a bit more into why cats lick you and, specifically, the face area.

Why do cats lick you?

To seek attention

Sometimes the simplest answer is the most likely! Your cat is bored or feeling needy, they’ve tried meowing, pushing stuff off tables, or staring at you for several minutes but, alas, you have failed to notice them. Another tactic is to lick you and, as they have small spikes on their tongue (which is why they’re so rough), probably trying to seek attention from you.

They’re marking their territory

A lot of cat behaviors have to do with communicating with other kitties, especially when it comes to territories. Kitties have an amazing sense of smell, so use scent glands found all over their body to mark their territory and take claim to what is theirs (which is generally everything). This includes their pet parents or pet pal friends. Licking your face could be a way for them to say ‘You are mine now, never forget’. Kind of creepy, but also sort of sweet.

To express stress and anxiety

Grooming can become an obsessive, compulsive behavior known as overgrooming. When a cat is experiencing stress and anxiety they can channel this into excessive licking. Initially, it’s a way for them to try and calm themselves down as it reminds them of their mother cat grooms when they were kittens. Although overgrooming is mostly self-inflicted, it can be done to their humans as well.

It’s a sign of affection

Yes, your cat does love you! Cats have their own way of expressing love and affection to us humans. Although some do present us with ‘gifts’ from the garden and local wildlife, they otherwise struggle to formally express their love. When a cat licks your face it could be their way of saying you mean a lot to them. Weirdly cute, right?

Ever had your cat lick and then bite you? As well as hurting, this sneak attack is actually a compliment. They’re saying they think of you as an equal: You are officially part of their cat clowder, congratulations! However, if your cat’s bite has broken your skin, call your doctor (for humans) straightaway. Cat bites can introduce bacteria into your bloodstream, which can have nasty consequences.

An underlying medical issue

Excessive licking could be a symptom that your cat isn’t feeling 100 purr-cent. Kitties will often lick their people or objects if they’re feeling nauseous or unwell. If their licking has suddenly started and you’ve noticed other issues like vomiting or lethargy, take them to a vet immediately.

So, why does my cat lick my face?

If your cat has just started licking your face this could be a sign something has changed for them. As mentioned above, this could be a medical issue or simply them accepting you as part of their purr-party. If your cat licking your face is a norm in your household, it might just be one of their unique cat behaviors.

Of course, if you’re ever concerned about your cat’s behavior, how much your cat is grooming, or a change in their health, take them to the vet sooner rather than later.

Should I let my cat lick my face?

We don’t judge here at TrustedHousesitters - so long as you and your pet are healthy and happy, and no one’s at risk of harm, you do you, pet people. But, from a hygiene perspective, it’s not advisable. Cat saliva contains a lot of nasty bacteria which can cause severe infections even on the smallest cuts on us humans. 

For those who have a mild, underlying allergy to cats, letting your cat lick your face is not a good idea. As this allergy is caused by cat saliva, having a kitty put it directly on your face might end in tears.

Meet our veterinary expert, Jnanee

This article has been checked by veterinarian Jnanee Krishnasamy, BVSc (Massey). Dr Jnanee is a small animal veterinarian. She was born in sunny Singapore and spent her formative years there, before studying veterinary medicine at

Massey University. Since graduating from vet school, Dr Jnanee has worked in a variety of settings that include private practice, shelter medicine, and veterinary telemedicine. Due to her varied experiences, she is well-informed on many aspects of the veterinary industry!

Tell us, does your cat lick your face or do they have any other bizarre behaviors you want to share with other feline fanatics? Head to our Community Forum to start the conversation on all things cute and kitty-related. You don’t even have to be a member to join the catchat! But, if you’re not a member, and you’re curious… Check out our different membership plan options, see which will suit you best, and become an official part of our global pet-loving community.