Grooming each other, called allogrooming, is one of three ways cats express cohesion in colonies. The other two ways are allorubbing and transmitting scent signals.
. . . scientists have studied allogrooming behaviors in domestic cats, lions, primates and many other species.
Source: Catster, January 1, 2019. Link.
Allogrooming appears to be a sign of social acceptance and connection. Cats neither groom nor solicit grooming from strangers.
INSIGHTS: Consider this article for social media posts, e-newsletters and as a reference if you’re doing school presentations for grade school children.