Question from New Cat Owner

Hi! I'm the new owner of a female, American Shorthair cat. Dana is all black, a juvenile or young adult, intelligent, and VERY affectionate. My question is this: Dana loves to lick my hand when I pet her. I know dogs like to lick their owners, but I didn't expect this from a cat. Is this usual cat behavior? What does it mean? Thank you for your help. (I've a feeling I have a lot to learn about cats).

I have a foster that does this, I wouldn't worry too much about it.

shje loves you and is trying to groom you as a sign of affection.

either that or you have somethign tasty on your hand like handcream or soap!

A while back someone told me that when a cat licks or grooms you it's the ultimate form of affection. Your new addition sounds very sweet. Congratulations!

She loves you! My Phenom does the same thing especially when i get home from work! Best of luck to you!

I agree sounds like she loves you & is grooming you the way she would another cat that she was bonded with. As far as having a lot to learn, I've had cats since I was 5 & every cat is differnt therefore at 31 I'm still learning. (Especially when it comes to my Jordan he's differnt from any cat I've ever known) The important thing is to get to know your cat.

I had amale cat about 6 years ago who would lick my arm raw, them move to my face and lick it. It's just tehir way of showing they love you and feel safe with you.

My latest cat is a real licker - I had never had on before!
She licked me a lot more than she does now when I first brought her home...she was still in that grateful/suck-up stage

To answer your question, so do, some dont.

Originally Posted by CDubbie

My latest cat is a real licker - I had never had on before!
She licked me a lot more than she does now when I first brought her home...she was still in that grateful/suck-up stage

To answer your question, so do, some dont.

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This cracked me up because it reminded me of something one of the other volunteers at the shelter always says about cats like this, "She can't hold her licker." (pun intended)