Why Is My Cat Licking His Lips?

My cat has been licking his lips as if he has dry mouth. He's been doing it for a couple of days. It is new behavior and I wonder if it is a sign that something is wrong. (Jessica Pappas - California)

Licking of lips can be an indicator of a range of different problems. It could be a sign of mild anxiety; an allergy of some sort (especially if they are licking another area of his body); or a sign of an obstruction somewhere in the digestive process (he may have swallowed an object or piece of string). In rare cases this could be a sign of something more serious such as CRI (Chronic Renal Insufficiency) where the kidneys aren't functioning properly. CRI also includes symptoms like increased thirst/urination and nausea so is unlikely to be the cause if the only symptom. It suggest you take your cat to the vet for a thorough examination, especially if the licking is accompanied by any of the other symptoms I have mentioned.