Allo-grooming can be defined as a maintenance activity which a cat directs at another cat’s skin, coat or claws and will usually involve licking. Although any area of the body may be involved it is the head area, especially the forehead and around the ears, that is usually groomed. The exception would be a queen grooming her kittens where she will groom all areas of the body.

The following video illustrates allo-grooming between two relaxed adult cats.

The following video illustrates allo-grooming between two kittens. Note how the incidences of play lead to grooming, in particular head grooming. The reason that play often precedes or follows grooming behaviour is unknown.