Have you ever wondered why do my cats lick each other then fight right after? I used to watch my two boys do this and think, “What’s going on?” At first, they seem so sweet, like best friends. Then, boom—they’re rolling around like wrestlers! It turns out, this is normal. Male cats grooming each other is part of how they bond. Sometimes, though, cats groom each other to show dominance too. In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve learned about why cats groom each other then fight and when you should step in. Let’s make sense of this crazy but cute cat behavior together! Now read the full article about you cats behavior.
Is It Normal for Cats to Groom Each Other Then Fight?
Yes, it’s normal for cats to groom each other and then fight. It’s usually a mix of bonding and playful behavior.
At my house, Max and Leo, my two boys, do this all the time. One minute they’re licking each other sweetly. The next, they’re rolling across the floor like tiny wrestlers! At first, I thought they were mad. But after talking to my vet and doing some research, I learned it’s just cat life.
When cats lick each other, it’s called allogrooming. It’s a way of showing trust and love. Sometimes, though, one cat gets a little too excited or annoyed. That’s when a playful fight can start. It’s not real anger—just normal cat fun.
As long as there’s no hissing, biting hard, or signs of fear, it’s usually harmless. Watching them is like seeing best friends tease each other.
Reasons Why Cats Lick Each Other and Then Fight
Cats licking and then fighting can seem strange, but it’s very normal. Here’s why it happens.
Social Bonding Turning into Play
When cats lick each other, it’s called allogrooming. It’s like giving a hug or fixing a friend’s hair. It shows love and trust.
But sometimes, the mood changes. A lick turns into a soft bite. Then, a playful swipe follows. Soon they are rolling around the floor!
At my house, Max and Leo do this almost every day. They start sweet and end up wrestling like little lions.
Dominance and Hierarchy Behavior
Do cats groom each other to show dominance? Yes, they can!
In a cat group, grooming can show who is in charge. The cat who starts grooming often has the upper paw.
At home, Max always grooms Leo first. It’s like he’s saying, “I’m the big brother here.”
Overstimulation or Irritation
Too much licking can annoy even the sweetest cat. Watch for signs like ear flicks, tail swishes, or quick head turns.
Leo sometimes licks Max for too long. Max’s tail starts to twitch. Then, with a swat, playtime starts!
Redirected Aggression
Sometimes, the fight isn’t about the grooming at all. A loud noise, a strange smell, or another pet can upset a cat.
Max once groomed Leo while the neighbor’s dog barked outside. Suddenly, Max bit Leo! Poor Leo looked so confused.
Do Male Cats Groom Each Other?
Yes, male cats often groom each other. It’s a sign they feel close and safe. At home, my two male cats, Max and Leo, groom each other every day. Max licks Leo’s ears, and Leo purrs, enjoying the attention. This is called allogrooming. It’s how cats show trust and love. Even if they’re not related, cats that grow up together act like family. Max and Leo have been grooming each other since they were kittens. It helps them bond and feel more comfortable with each other. If the grooming is calm and relaxed, it’s a good sign. When they groom, they are simply reinforcing their bond.
When Should You Worry About Cats Grooming Then Fighting?
Most of the time, cats grooming and then fighting is normal. But sometimes, it can be a sign of real trouble.
Worry if you see injuries, hard biting, hissing, or bullying behavior.
One evening, I watched Max and Leo grooming like always. Then out of nowhere, Max bit Leo’s ear—hard. Poor Leo ran to hide! That’s when I knew: not all grooming means they’re playing.
Here’s a quick list to know when to worry:
- Injuries or hard biting: If there’s blood or deep scratches, it’s serious.
- Hissing and growling: Loud sounds mean it’s no longer playtime.
- One cat bullying the other: If one keeps chasing, swatting, or blocking the other cat.
Tip:
Watch their body language. Look for a flicking tail, stiff legs, or pinned-back ears. These signs show stress, not fun.
From what I’ve seen at home, playful cats wrestle quietly. They take turns and stay relaxed. But if one hides a lot, stops eating, or looks scared, it’s time to help. You might even want to ask your vet for advice.
Cats are like kids. A little roughhousing is fine. Real fights need your attention.
How to Tell If Your Cats Are Playing or Fighting?
If they are loose, quiet, and take turns, they’re playing. If they’re stiff, loud, and one hides, it’s a fight.
In play, cats have soft bodies. They roll, chase, and swap places. You might see them bat at each other with no real force. Max and Leo do this every day. It’s like two kids wrestling for fun.
In a real fight, cats growl, hiss, and arch their backs. Their moves look sharp and stiff. One cat may run away and hide. Once, Max pinned Leo by the door, and poor Leo froze like a statue!
Tips:
Play: Silent, loose, taking turns.
Fight: Loud, stiff, retreating.
If you’re not sure, watch their tails and ears.
Loose tails and forward ears mean fun.
Puffed tails and flat ears mean trouble.
How to Encourage Positive Behavior Between Cats
Want your cats to stay friendly? You can help them with a few easy steps.
Give them space, play with them often, and reward good moments.
When I first brought Leo home, Max got grumpy. He hissed, swiped, and hogged the best spots. I thought, “Oh no, this might never work!”
But little changes made a big difference. Here’s what helped:
Give each cat their own stuff.
Add more beds, toys, bowls, and litter boxes. Max loved his window bed, while Leo liked the closet.
Play with them every day.
Use feather toys, balls, or lasers. Max and Leo started to chase toys together. It made them feel like a team.
Use calming diffusers.
I plugged in a Feliway diffuser near their favorite spots. In just a few days, things felt much calmer.
Reward good moments.
When Max and Leo groomed or played without fighting, I gave treats. They learned that being kind meant good things!
Helping cats get along is like growing a small garden. With a little time and love, you’ll see them bloom into best friends.
More Article
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FAQs About Cats Grooming Then Fighting
Why do cats lick each other and then bite?
Cats lick to bond. A bite may come if one gets too excited or wants to play. It’s normal if they seem calm and happy.
Is it bad if my cats fight after grooming?
No, it’s not bad if they stay calm. If they hiss, growl, or hurt each other, you may need to step in and stop them.
Can grooming mean my cats are fighting for dominance?
Yes, cats may lick to show who’s boss. Grooming can be a way to set rules without a real fight. Watch who licks first.
Should I separate my cats if they fight after grooming?
If they fight hard or hiss, yes, you should. If they are quiet and take turns, it’s safe to let them play together.
How do I know if my cats like each other?
Cats who lick, nap near each other, or play soft games are friends. Nose touches and purring are also clear signs they care.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever asked, “Why do my cats lick each other then fight?” you’re not alone. I’ve watched Max and Leo do it a hundred times. It turns out, it’s normal! Cats groom to bond, but sometimes, all that energy turns into playful wrestling. It’s like two kids hugging, then racing off to a game.
Still, it’s smart to watch for signs of real trouble. Hard biting, loud hissing, or bullying means it’s more than play. If you spot those, it’s time to step in.
Most of the time though, a little licking and wrestling just means your cats are happy and close. It’s part of how they stay bonded and active.
Want more real-world cat care tips?
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