Cats lick their owners for various reasons, and it is a normal behavior for them. Here are some possible reasons why cats lick their owners:

• Affection: Licking is a way for cats to show affection and create a social bond with their owners. This behavior may stem from kittenhood when their mother licked them to groom them and show care and affection.

• Grooming: Cats spend a lot of time grooming themselves, and they may lick their owners as a way to groom them too. This behavior is called allogrooming and strengthens social bonds.

• Attention-seeking: Cats may lick their owners to get attention, whether its for food, playtime, or cuddling. If owners react positively to licking, cats may learn that its an effective way to get attention.

• Marking territory: Licking is a way for cats to mark their territory and establish social bonds. When cats lick their owners, they leave behind their scent, which tells other animals to stay away.

• Investigating scents: Cats have a keen sense of smell, and they may lick their owners to investigate interesting scents or odors, such as lotion, shampoo, or sweat.

• Anxiety or stress: In some cases, cats may lick their owners excessively due to anxiety or stress. This behavior is called a displacement behavior, and its a way for cats to cope with their emotions.

Overall, cats lick their owners for various reasons, and its usually a sign of affection or a way to strengthen social bonds. However, if the licking behavior is excessive or out of the ordinary, its best to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues or anxiety problems.