8 Reasons Why Your Cat’s Tongue Sticks Out

Cats are beloved creatures known for their adorable and funny gestures, such as lying on their backs, chasing their tails, and poking their tongues out. While some of these behaviors may raise concerns about the cat’s health, there are various reasons why a cat’s tongue may stick out. Understanding why your cat exhibits this behavior can help ensure their well-being and address any potential issues.

One common reason for a cat’s tongue sticking out is grooming. Cats are meticulous groomers, and it is not uncommon for their tongue to accidentally stick out during or after grooming if they become distracted. This is a normal behavior and usually nothing to worry about.

Another reason for a cat’s tongue sticking out is known as “bleping.” While the origin of this term is unknown, it refers to when a cat sticks its tongue out for no apparent reason. As long as the cat is not in distress and the behavior does not persist for an extended period, it is considered normal. However, if your cat bleps frequently, it may be a sign that a check-up with a vet is needed.

Cats also use their tongues to smell or taste their surroundings. Cats have an olfactory organ called Jacobson’s organ, or the vomeronasal organ, located in the roof of their mouth. This organ allows cats to collect scents, particularly pheromones, from their environment and analyze them by flicking their tongues to the organ. This behavior, known as the Flehmen response, helps cats gather information about other cats and their surroundings.

Sometimes, a cat’s tongue may stick out simply because they are relaxing. Just like humans may drool in their sleep with their mouths open, cats may also experience this while resting. It is a natural and harmless behavior for most cats.

Certain cat breeds, such as Persian or Burmese cats, may have tongues that stick out more frequently due to genetic factors. These breeds, known as brachycephalic cats, have shorter skull bones that can affect the positioning of their tongues. While this is not a cause for concern in itself, it is important to be aware of any potential health issues that may arise in these breeds.

In some cases, a cat’s tongue sticking out may be a sign of a mouth disease. As cats age, they may develop dental problems like tartar, periodontal disease, stomatitis, or even tumors that can impact their ability to keep their tongues inside their mouths. Conditions such as tumors or cysts can also prevent a cat from retracting their tongue fully.

Neurological diseases can also lead to a cat sticking out its tongue. Older cats may suffer from neurological conditions that affect their tongue movement, mouth opening, or tongue retraction. These diseases can be caused by age, living conditions, or infectious diseases and may require veterinary attention.

If a cat’s tongue sticks out due to debris or something on it, the cat may exhibit behaviors like spitting to remove the foreign object. In these cases, the tongue sticking out is a natural response to clear the mouth.

Regardless of the reason for a cat’s tongue sticking out, it is essential to monitor the behavior and seek veterinary advice if necessary. By understanding the potential causes of this behavior, cat owners can ensure their feline friends’ health and well-being.