Licki brush helps humans lick their cats

Pet lovers raise more than £20,000 in bid to get closer to their beloved moggies

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More than 1,000 people have pledged nearly $30,000 (£20,700) to help fund a product that will allow humans to lick their pet cats.

The "Licki Brush", a soft silicone device, is held in a pet-owner's mouth and used to brush their animal to help develop a bond.

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The idea comes from Jason O'Mara, an electrical engineer from Oregon, who needs at least $36,500 (£25,300) in pledges by 27 June for the project to go ahead.

With 25 days to go, 1,154 backers have already promised $29,983 on Kickstarter, all in hope of receiving a brush when they are ready in ship in January 2017.

"Have you ever wanted to lick your cat? Now you can. Without the furballs," says O'Mara, a self-declared cat entertainment enthusiast.

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"We have designed Licki brush to bring you and your cat closer. By using Licki with your cat on a regular basis, you'll develop a more intimate and bonded relationship, much like a mama cat bonds with her young."

The brush is not just for cats. The team has tested Licki on "several friendly dogs and rabbits" who apparently "basked in the delight of their owner's grooming".

O'Mara and his wife, Tara, previously created SHRU, a cat toy that mimics the erratic movement and sound of a small animal.

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