11 Fascinating Reasons Why Your Cat’s Tongue Might Be Sticking Out

If you’ve ever caught your cat with their tongue slightly protruding from their mouth, you’ve witnessed what might be one of the most endearing feline behaviors. This phenomenon, sometimes called a ‘blep,’ can make for adorable photos and amusing moments. But why exactly do cats stick out their tongues? While it’s often perfectly normal, this quirky behavior can sometimes signal underlying issues that require attention. Let’s explore the fascinating reasons behind your cat’s protruding tongue and what it might mean for your feline friend’s health and happiness.

Why Cats Stick Out Their Tongues

A cat’s tongue is an incredible tool – rough, flexible, and essential for everything from grooming to eating. When that tongue makes an unexpected appearance, there’s usually a specific reason. Understanding these reasons can help you determine whether your cat is just being cute or if they might need veterinary attention.

Reason #1: Your Cat Is Blepping

The term ‘blep’ has become internet-famous to describe when a cat leaves their tongue sticking out just a tiny bit. This adorable behavior typically happens when your cat is relaxed and forgets to retract their tongue after grooming or tasting something. Blepping is completely harmless and often occurs when cats are in a state of contentment or mild distraction.

Cats use their tongues for sensory exploration, and sometimes after using it to investigate something, they simply forget to pull it back in. This is especially common when cats are feeling particularly relaxed or are in the middle of a grooming session. The resulting blep is nothing to worry about – just another charming quirk that makes cats such fascinating companions.

Reason #2: Your Cat Is Relaxed or Sleeping

Have you ever noticed your cat’s tongue peeking out while they’re deep in slumber? When cats enter a state of deep relaxation or sleep, their jaw muscles can relax completely, allowing the tongue to slip slightly out of the mouth. This is particularly common in older cats or when a cat is extremely comfortable.

This sleeping blep is similar to how some humans might drool or have their mouths fall open during deep sleep. The muscles simply relax to the point where the tongue isn’t actively held inside the mouth. It’s a sign your cat feels safe and secure enough to completely let their guard down – a compliment to you as their caretaker!

Reason #3: Something Is Stuck to Their Tongue

Cats are fastidious groomers, spending up to 50% of their waking hours cleaning themselves. During these extensive grooming sessions, it’s possible for hair or other debris to become stuck to their rough, barbed tongues. When this happens, a cat might stick out their tongue in an attempt to dislodge the unwanted material.

If you notice your cat repeatedly sticking out their tongue and making unusual mouth movements, they might be trying to remove something uncomfortable. In most cases, cats can manage this on their own, but if the behavior persists, a gentle inspection might be in order to ensure nothing is causing prolonged discomfort.

Reason #4: Your Cat’s Breed Is Predisposed to It

Just like dogs, certain cat breeds are predisposed to having their tongues stick out due to their unique anatomy. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Persians, Himalayans, and Burmese cats often can’t completely contain their tongues due to their shortened facial structure. Their shortened jaws and flat faces simply don’t provide enough space for the tongue to fit comfortably inside at all times.

Similarly, cats with missing teeth or jaw malformations might lack the proper oral structure to keep their tongues fully contained. These anatomical differences are typically nothing to worry about and are simply part of what makes these breeds unique. Many owners of flat-faced cats find the occasional tongue appearance to be part of their pet’s distinctive charm.

Reason #5: Your Cat Is Cooling Down

Unlike dogs, cats don’t typically pant to regulate their body temperature, but in certain situations, they might stick out their tongues as part of their cooling process. When a cat becomes overheated, they might allow their tongue to protrude slightly to increase evaporative cooling.

If you notice your cat sticking out their tongue on a particularly hot day or after vigorous play, they might simply be trying to cool down. Ensure they have access to fresh water and a cool, shaded resting spot. However, if this behavior is accompanied by heavy breathing or seems excessive, it could indicate heat stress, which requires immediate attention.

Reason #6: Your Cat Has Dental Issues

Oral health problems can be a significant reason why cats stick out their tongues. Dental issues like periodontal disease, tooth resorption, or mouth infections can make keeping the tongue inside the mouth uncomfortable or painful. Cats experiencing oral discomfort might stick their tongues out temporarily or even permanently if the condition is severe.

Signs that your cat’s protruding tongue might be related to dental problems include bad breath, decreased appetite, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or visible inflammation of the gums. Regular veterinary dental check-ups are essential for maintaining your cat’s oral health and preventing painful conditions that might lead to tongue protrusion.

Reason #7: It’s a Neurological Issue

In some cases, a persistently protruding tongue can indicate neurological problems. Since tongue control involves the neurological system, certain neuromuscular diseases or neurological conditions can affect a cat’s ability to keep their tongue properly positioned in their mouth.

According to veterinary experts, a neurological cause for tongue protrusion is typically accompanied by other unusual behaviors or movements. These might include coordination problems, strange head postures, seizures, or changes in behavior. If you suspect a neurological issue might be causing your cat’s tongue to stick out, a veterinary evaluation is necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Reason #8: Medication Side Effects

Some medications can cause a cat to stick out their tongue, either as a direct side effect or because they alter taste perception. Certain medications might leave an unpleasant taste in your cat’s mouth, prompting them to stick out their tongue in response.

Additionally, some medications can cause dry mouth or alterations in saliva production, which might make your cat’s tongue feel uncomfortable in their mouth. If you notice your cat sticking out their tongue shortly after starting a new medication, consult with your veterinarian about possible side effects and whether an alternative treatment might be appropriate.

Reason #9: Your Cat Just Ate or Drank

The simple act of eating or drinking can sometimes lead to temporary tongue protrusion. Cats use their tongues to transfer food into their mouths and to scoop up water when drinking. After these activities, some cats might momentarily leave their tongues out, especially if they’re distracted before completing the retraction.

This type of tongue protrusion is completely normal and typically resolves quickly as your cat returns to their regular activities. It’s simply part of the feline eating and drinking process and not a cause for concern.

Reason #10: Foreign Objects in the Mouth

Occasionally, cats might get foreign objects like string, plastic, or plant material stuck in their mouths, causing them to stick out their tongues in an attempt to remove the intrusion. This is different from small debris stuck to the tongue itself – these are larger items that might be lodged between teeth or in other parts of the mouth.

If you suspect your cat has something stuck in their mouth, a careful examination might be necessary. Look for excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating, or visible objects. Never force your cat’s mouth open if they resist, as this could cause injury. If you can’t easily resolve the issue, veterinary assistance is the safest approach.

Reason #11: Your Cat Is Anxious or Stressed

Stress and anxiety can manifest in various physical ways in cats, including tongue protrusion. Some cats might stick out their tongues or lick their lips repeatedly when feeling nervous or uncomfortable. This behavior is often accompanied by other signs of anxiety such as hiding, excessive grooming, or changes in litter box habits.

Identifying and addressing the source of stress is key to resolving this type of tongue protrusion. Environmental enrichment, creating safe spaces, and in some cases, consulting with your veterinarian about behavior modification strategies can help reduce anxiety-related behaviors.

When to Be Concerned About Your Cat’s Protruding Tongue

While many instances of cats sticking out their tongues are harmless, certain situations warrant veterinary attention. Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

• Persistent tongue protrusion that doesn’t resolve
• Difficulty eating or drinking
• Excessive drooling or bad breath
• Signs of pain or discomfort
• Changes in behavior accompanied by tongue protrusion
• Discoloration of the tongue or gums

Your veterinarian can help determine if your cat’s protruding tongue is simply a quirky behavior or a sign of an underlying health issue that requires treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is it normal for kittens to stick out their tongues more often than adult cats?

A: Yes, kittens might stick out their tongues more frequently as they’re still developing coordination and control over their mouth muscles. This behavior typically becomes less common as they mature.

Q: Can a cat’s protruding tongue be a sign of poisoning?

A: Yes, in some cases of toxin exposure, cats might display unusual mouth movements or tongue protrusion. If you suspect poisoning, contact your veterinarian immediately, as this constitutes an emergency.

Q: Why does my cat stick out their tongue when I pet them?

A: Some cats become so relaxed during petting that their jaw muscles relax, allowing the tongue to slip out. This is often a sign of contentment and enjoyment.

Q: Can dehydration cause a cat to stick out their tongue?

A: Yes, dehydration can cause dry mouth, which might make a cat stick out their tongue. Ensure your cat always has access to fresh water and monitor their water intake, especially during hot weather.

Q: Should I be worried if my older cat recently started sticking their tongue out?

A: New behaviors in older cats should be monitored closely. While it could be harmless, sudden changes in older cats can sometimes indicate health issues. A veterinary check-up is recommended to rule out dental disease or other age-related conditions.

Understanding why your cat sticks out their tongue can provide valuable insights into their health and well-being. Whether it’s an adorable blep or a sign of something that needs attention, being attuned to this behavior is part of responsible cat ownership. Most of the time, a protruding tongue is nothing to worry about – just another endearing quirk that makes cats the fascinating companions we love.

Author

medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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