Understanding why your cat sticks its tongue out: a fascinating behavior
Why cats stick their tongues out is a question every feline lover has asked themselves at least once. Between concern and amusement, this little gesture can reveal much more than we think. Let’s discover all the surprising reasons behind this adorably strange behavior!
Your cat sticks out its tongue: a natural or worrying gesture?
Before you panic, you should know that sticking your tongue out is often quite normal for our feline friends. However, it’s essential to know how to tell the difference between innocent behavior and an alarming sign:
- Observe frequency: an occasional gesture is generally harmless.
- Context of the gesture: after a play session or during sleep, don’t worry!
- If the tongue is constantly protruding or accompanied by excessive salivation, it’s best to consult your vet.
To better understand the subtle signals your cat sends you, read our article on how to understand your cat’s body language.
The outstretched tongue in cats: a bodily expression to be deciphered
Cats communicate a great deal through their bodies, and their little pink tongues are no exception! This gesture can express :
- Relaxation and well-being after a good nap.
- Curiosity in the face of an intriguing smell.
- Mild stress or temporary anxiety.
Learning to interpret this behavior correctly will help you better understand your furry friend and strengthen your bond.
Why do cats stick their tongues out in their sleep?
Ever caught your cat sound asleep, tongue out, dreaming? It’s simply adorable! During deep sleep, the muscles relax completely, including those of the jaw:
- Your cat reaches maximum relaxation.
- He’s probably dreaming of chasing a mouse or playing with you!
- If this phenomenon becomes frequent and is accompanied by excessive snoring, a visit to the vet is in order.
Physical reasons why cats stick their tongues out
Thermal regulation: your cat cools off
Unlike dogs, cats don’t often pant to regulate their temperature. However, in very hot weather, they may exceptionally stick out their tongues to cool down:
- Observe the signs of an overheated cat: restlessness, looking for cool places.
- Offer a cool corner, a damp towel or a discreet fan.
Warning: if your cat is panting regularly, consult your vet as soon as possible, as this may indicate heatstroke.
Dental and oral problems in cats
A constantly protruding tongue can also signal oral or dental pain:
- Observe whether your cat refuses to eat or chews on one side only.
- Adopt a regular dental hygiene routine to prevent these worries.
- Consult your veterinarian if you suspect pain.
Discover our practical tips for caring for your cat’s teeth in our dedicated guide: how to care for your cat’s teeth.
Flehmen’s reflex: feline curiosity
Have you ever seen your cat adopt a funny expression, mouth open, tongue out? It’s the Flehmen reflex:
- Your cat analyzes odors using the Jacobson’s organ located in its palate.
- This behavior often occurs in the face of new or intriguing smells.
An unusual fact: unneutered male cats adopt this reflex more frequently when they detect the pheromones of a female in heat!
Emotional and behavioral reasons for tongue-tied cats
Your cat is relaxed and happy
A happy cat may simply let its tongue protrude slightly:
- After a session of cuddling or playing.
- When he’s basking in the sun.
- Encourage these special moments to strengthen your emotional bond.
Stress and anxiety: when tongue-out is a warning signal
Beware: a protruding tongue accompanied by other signs may indicate stress:
- Ears pinned back, posture tense.
- Identify common causes: moving house, arrival of a new pet, unusual noise.
- Offer him a calm, reassuring space, enriched with soothing pheromones.
A common mistake to avoid: ignoring these signs of anxiety can worsen your cat’s malaise and lead to more serious behavioral problems.
Play and excitement: when outgoing language becomes playful
Is your cat in the middle of an imaginary hunt, happily sticking out its tongue? That’s the excitement of the game!
- Stimulate him with interactive toys to channel his energy.
- If this behavior becomes excessive or compulsive, consult your veterinarian.
Special situations where cats stick out their tongues
Side effects of certain drugs
Some treatments can cause your cat to stick out its tongue:
- Painkillers, tranquilizers or mild anesthetics.
- If you observe this sign after treatment, inform your veterinarian immediately.
- Ask about natural alternatives to limit these side effects.
Advanced age: why do senior cats stick their tongues out more often?
As we age, our jaw muscles become looser:
- Adapt his diet to his specific needs.
- Monitor his oral health regularly.
- Consult your vet for regular check-ups.
Respiratory problems: watch out for the warning signs
A protruding tongue associated with rapid or difficult breathing is cause for concern:
- Consult your vet immediately.
- Adapt your environment to prevent these problems (avoid smoke, ventilate regularly).
According to a recent veterinary study from Cornell University, feline respiratory disorders require prompt management to avoid serious complications(source).
Conclusion: Your cat sticks out its tongue, a gesture rich in meaning!
Why do cats stick out their tongues? As you’ve guessed, this adorable gesture hides a multitude of fascinating reasons. By learning to decipher this behavior, you’ll enrich your relationship with your beloved feline. Continue exploring our exciting articles on Pawtounes.fr to unravel all the feline mysteries!
