When your cat cares a little too much

#Middlebury #PawsCorner

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I had animals all my life until my dog died seven years ago. I got a cat two years ago when a neighbor moved. Last year, another neighbor gave us her cat after having a baby. The two cats – both fixed females – got along fine from start. What’s curious is, one jumps up on my bed every night and walks up to my face. When I put my hand out to pat her, she starts licking my arm, wrist to elbow, with her sandpaper tongue! Seems she is checking that I have not deserted her! Do I taste that good? What’s so tempting about my arm? – Dr. William H., Central Falls, Rhode Island

DEAR DR. WILLIAM: You may taste pretty good to your cat, but I think you’re on the right track when you say she seems to be checking that you have not deserted her. Many experts believe that cats groom their housemates – both felines and humans – as a way of showing they accept you as family, that they trust you and that they are caring for you.

Sometimes excessive licking is a sign that a cat wants more attention. It can also be a sign of anxiety or stress. However, that seems unlikely since your cat does this routinely and seems calm.

So the only question that remains is: Does it annoy you? If so, try gently redirecting the cat from your arm, maybe to snuggle against your shoulder. If it’s really annoying or she doesn’t stop after a few redirects, get up and walk away for a few minutes. She may eventually get the message.

Send your pet care tips, questions or comments to ask@pawscorner.com.

(c) 2018 King Features Synd. Inc.