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Kitten problems
Submitted by nikki19 on Jun 08, 2007
i have a 7month old kitten named baylee i had he since she was around 3weeks old and i never bottle fed her but sometimes she jumps up on me and starts licking my chin and she wont stop i even try pushing her away but she wont stop till shes satisfied what do you think shes trying to do?
Answer:
Nikki,
Kittens that have been separated from their moms at a pre-weaning age (less than 6-8 weeks) can tend to develop "neurotic" behaviors. They seem to be a little more insecure and often develop self-comforting behaviors. The most common is choosing a particular object, person, or other animal to lick or even suckle on. It is sort-of the equivalent to a baby sucking its thumb to help comfort itself. It sounds to me like you have become your kitten's comfort object! While this is flattering, I'm sure, it can also be irritating when you are trying to sleep. Unfortunately, there is not much you can do to prevent it, other than wait for your kitten to outgrow the behavior. Most kittens do rely upon their "comfort object" less and less as they grow older, and more secure. She may always lick your chin a little, but it will become less and less often as she ages. You can certainly try to put something on your chin to detract her - I would recommend something with a citrus scent, as cats tend to shy away from the smell and taste of oranges, lemons, limes, etc. Be warned - she may just find another spot to lick!
The best thing for her, if you can stand it - is to just let her lick you for now. As she grows more confidant, she will outgrow the behavior for the most part. By letting her lick you, you are helping her feel more comforted and you will have a happier more confidant cat. So, try to bear with her, and if not - you can always just hide under the covers!
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