Why Do Cats Mutually Groom Each Other

[jimmycatlover]

I have these two amazing special kitties (both males),

one mature, one younger who mutually groom each

other and at other times one is passive.  They seem

to enjoy the bond.

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• jimmycatlover
• Jul 30, 2016

Mature Special Tuxedo

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• jimmycatlover
• Jul 30, 2016

Younger Special Baby Brucie

 

[denice]

I have read that it is something that cats do when they are bonded.  It's a sign of affection and trust.  One of my cats will also 'groom' me, usually licking my arm.

 

[jimmycatlover]

Denice:  Thanks, nice to hear from you.  Grooming kitties that like each other 

sure beats kitties that don't like each other.  Sure did lock out when I rescued

these two from the outdoors that weren't really healthy, infested with fleas 

and roundworms.  Both are healthy now and loved unconditionally.

 

[hellomisskitty]

jimmycatlover both of your boys are so beautiful! Thank you for taking them in and giving them a forever home filled with love [emoji]10084[/emoji]️

 

[NewYork1303]

I know why gerbils do it- maybe its the same with cats. It is partially a form of respect and caring for each other. There is also an aspect of getting the places that can't be reached easily yourself. Cats tend to groom each other's ears and the backs of their necks. These are places that can only get full attention when groomed by another cat. With gerbils this is so important that a gerbil alone actually can start looking a bit scruffy just cause they aren't being groomed properly.

 

[jimmycatlover]

@HelloMissKitty:   Thanks for your kind words.  Had a Tabby many, many

years ago who lived to a ripe old age.

 

[jimmycatlover]

@NewYork1303:  Thanks for your feedback, makes alot of sense why

kitties mutually groom each other or passively.  It is so nice and enjoyable

seeing two kitties care for each other.  NOTE:  Seems to make no difference

of what gender they are.  If they bond with each other, they will take good 

care of each other.