Cats are known for their quirky behavior, and licking the floor is just one of the strange things they do. But rest assured, this behavior is relatively normal for cats, and there are some harmless reasons behind it.
The 6 Reasons Why a Cat Might Lick the Floor
1. There’s Food on the Floor
One of the main reasons why your cat might be licking the floor is because there’s something tasty spilled on it. Even if you think you’ve cleaned it up, cats have incredibly sensitive noses, especially when it comes to animal proteins. So, even if you’ve wiped away the evidence, your cat can still detect the lingering smell.
2. Exploration
Cats have a keen sense of smell and taste, and they often use their mouths to explore their surroundings. So, if your cat is licking the floor, it could be their way of trying to understand the world around them. It’s possible that there’s something on the floor that smells intriguing to them, or they’re simply curious about the taste of the polyurethane coating on your hardwood.
3. Pica
Pica is a medical condition characterized by a strong appetite for non-food items. If your cat is constantly eating things off the floor, they might have pica. It’s common for cats with pica to be attracted to specific non-food items, but they may also have a range of items they’re drawn to eat.
4. Pruritus
Pruritus is a scientific term for itching, and cats with this condition may groom or lick objects in an attempt to soothe the itchiness. If your cat frequently seems itchy, they might have fleas, allergies, or another skin condition that is causing discomfort.
5. Stress
Some cats express their stress in ways that resemble obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in humans. Cats with OCD may compulsively groom or lick objects as a way to alleviate their anxiety and perform repetitive behaviors that make them feel safe.
6. Difficulty Grooming Self
Cats are naturally clean animals and spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves. If your cat is having difficulty grooming, they may turn to grooming objects, surfaces, or even other animals as a way to satisfy their grooming instincts and soothe themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Should I be concerned if my cat licks the floor?
A: Licking the floor is usually a benign behavior and doesn’t typically require a visit to the veterinarian. However, it’s important to keep an eye on this behavior as your cat may accidentally ingest something harmful while licking the floor.
Q: How can I discourage my cat from licking the floor?
A: If you want to discourage this behavior, make sure to keep your floors clean and free of any spills or food debris. Providing your cat with appropriate outlets for grooming, such as regular brushing and scratching posts, can also help redirect their attention away from the floor.
Conclusion
Seeing your cat engage in odd behaviors can be unsettling, but licking the floor is generally harmless and doesn’t usually lead to serious complications. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior can help put your mind at ease. Remember to keep an eye on your cat to ensure they don’t accidentally ingest anything harmful while indulging in this quirky habit.
Featured Image Credit: Jake Pause, Shutterstock
