What is what does it mean when cats groom each other?

When cats groom each other, it's a behavior known as allogrooming. It's much more than just a simple bath. Here's what it typically signifies:

• Social%20Bonding: Allogrooming is a key way cats strengthen their bonds. Cats who groom each other are typically from the same social group or family. It reinforces feelings of trust and affection.

• Establishing%20Hierarchy: Sometimes, grooming can be related to social structure. The cat who does the grooming might be subtly asserting their dominance. The cat being groomed is usually displaying acceptance of the other cat's higher rank.

• Mutual%20Comfort: The act of grooming is often soothing. It releases endorphins, which can help cats relax and feel secure, especially when they are grooming each other.

• Strengthening%20Group%20Identity: In multi-cat households, allogrooming helps create a unified group scent. By sharing saliva and oils, cats develop a common odor that signifies they belong to the same family.

• Attention%20Seeking: Sometimes, a cat might initiate grooming to get attention from another cat. This is more common if one cat desires interaction with another.

While allogrooming is usually a positive behavior, watch out for potential issues:

• Overgrooming: If one cat is excessively grooming another, it could be a sign of stress or anxiety. One cat might also be annoying the other.
• Aggression: If grooming escalates into biting or hissing, it suggests a conflict between the cats.