What is the meaning behind this odd behavior?

by Kimberly
(Austin, Texas)

I have a male cat and a female cat, both fixed, both 3 years old (4 month difference). They are in no way related, but have been together basically their entire lives.

Well, so, they're both asleep and when the female wakes up first, she makes a b-line directly to the male cat, with no regard that he's in a deep sleep. She starts licking (grooming) his ears, face, head and neck area. He wakes up and returns the favor, so they're both having a total lick-fest.

One might slow down or the male will bite the back of the female's neck, but no matter what, the ears flatten and spontaneously they're in a no holds barred brawl. It's like fricking clockwork.

I've never had cats act that way before and I'm super curious as to why this behavior happens. Oh, one more thing, it's NEVER the male cat approaching the female. Please help me understand!!