19/02/2026
Why Cats Groom Each Other, by Yvonne Villasenor, DVM, Sabrina Kong, DVM, & Hannah Hart, DVM
(based on an article by Chewy.com)
It’s completely normal for cats to groom each other. It’s called "allogrooming," and they often do it to show affection, grow their bond, and keep clean.
Here are some key points:
1. Grooming is a way for cats to show affection, keep each other clean, relieve stress, and build trust.
2. Not all cats groom each other, and that’s normal too.
3. Overgrooming is possible and can lead to skin irritation and hair loss; see your vet if you suspect your cats are overgrooming.
“It’s an instinct that begins in kittenhood with their mother and often continues into adulthood with their chosen feline companions,” Dr. Kong explains. “Seeing your cats groom each other is generally a wonderful indicator that they feel safe and content with one another.”
Do All Cats Groom Each Other?
No, not all cats groom each other. And that’s OK!
“Just like people, cats have different love languages,” Dr. Kong says. “A cat’s personality and their experiences as a kitten play a big role—some are just not as physically affectionate.”
A lack of mutual grooming isn’t necessarily a bad thing, she notes. Your cats might show their bond and love for each other in other ways, like sleeping near one another, playing together, or wrapping their tails around each other.
However, there are some instances where it should be redirected:
If conflict occurs during grooming. “Sometimes, grooming isn’t always appreciated by the other cat, or at a certain point, the cat who’s actually doing the grooming can become aggressive,” Quandt says. Signs of stress to watch out for include hissing or trying to escape. If one or both cats is clearly upset by the attention, then pet parents should intervene by removing one of the cats and placing them in another room with the door closed until both cats are calm again. Pet parents should make sure both cats have access to water, food, perches, toys, and views outdoors while separated so that neither becomes more stressed.
If grooming becomes obsessive. Compulsive grooming happens when your cat focuses on one specific spot of their feline friend, potentially resulting in skin and coat issues, like irritation or hair loss.
Try these pro tips on how to redirect the behavior:
Practice positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key to encouraging a desired change in your cat’s behavior while strengthening your bond with them.
Gently distract your cat with a toy or treat. Your best friend’s favorite toy, whether it be a Kong beaver catnip toy or Frisco fabric wand toy, can be an entertaining distraction.