The act of one feline grooming another, observed as licking, is a common behavior in multi-cat households. This activity, scientifically termed allogrooming, serves multiple social and hygienic purposes within the feline group.
Allogrooming reinforces social bonds, establishing a hierarchy and maintaining group cohesion. Furthermore, it assists in hygiene by cleaning hard-to-reach areas, distributing natural oils, and removing parasites. The practice reflects a degree of trust and comfort between the animals involved. Historically, such behavior has been documented across a range of social animal species, indicating an evolutionary benefit for group living.