Have you ever seen the adorable sight of a cat sticking out a small part of its tongue and curling it around its mouth? Many people describe this as the cat "forgetting to retract its tongue". But why do cats "forget" to pull their tongues back in?
Feeling Too Relaxed
Cats often exhibit a quirky behavior known as "blepping", where they stick their tongues out. This phenomenon is closely linked to relaxation, especially in domestic cats. Unlike their wild counterparts, who must remain vigilant, house cats can fully relax, leading to this amusing display.
Why Does It Happen?
The anatomy of a cat's face, particularly the short nose, plays a significant role in this behavior. When cats relax, their facial muscles, including those around the mouth, release tension. This relaxation can cause the mouth to slightly open, allowing the tongue to protrude. This is more common when cats are asleep or in a state of deep relaxation, such as during petting or resting in a safe environment.
Comparison with Wild Cats
Wild cats, on the other hand, rarely exhibit this behavior due to their constant need for vigilance. In the wild, cats must always be alert to potential threats, making it difficult for them to fully relax. In contrast, domestic cats, feeling secure and protected, can let their guard down and enter a state of complete relaxation, often resulting in their tongues slipping out.
Sticking their tongues out is a natural and harmless behavior for cats, reflecting their comfort and trust in their environment. It's a sign that they feel safe enough to let go of their usual alertness, allowing them to fully enjoy the moment.
Really Just Forgot
It's true that sometimes cats simply forget to retract their tongues. This isn't an uncommon occurrence—when a cat's attention is diverted by something else, they might unconsciously leave their tongue extended. For instance, if a cat is intently grooming itself and is suddenly called by its owner, distracted by a peculiar sound, or completely focused on a flying prey right in front of them, these situations can easily lead to an extended tongue. However, usually after a short while, they become aware of it and retract their tongue.
Reasons for Facial Structure
Cats sticking their tongues out can be both adorable and puzzling for pet owners. While it's often a sign of relaxation or playfulness, there are several reasons why cats exhibit this behavior. One significant factor is their facial structure.
Facial Structure and Tongue Protrusion
Some cats, due to their unique facial structure, may find it difficult to retract their tongues. Especially in brachycephalic breeds with short, flat noses, such as Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs, the skeletal structure can cause the tongue to protrude slightly even when they are not intentionally sticking it out. This is because the bone structure in these breeds can lead to dental issues and difficulties in closing the mouth properly.
Health Considerations
While facial structure is a common reason for tongue protrusion, it's important to consider potential health issues. Conditions like periodontal disease, stomatitis, and oral masses can cause discomfort, leading to involuntary tongue sticking out. If you notice your cat frequently sticking its tongue out, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like drooling or loss of appetite, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian.
Observing your cat's behavior closely can help you understand whether their tongue sticking out is due to a quirk, a health issue, or simply their facial anatomy. By being aware of these factors, you can better care for your feline friend and ensure their overall well-being.
Exhausted from Grooming
Grooming can be exhausting for cats. If you notice that your cat leaves its tongue out after grooming, it's likely because they are simply too tired. Cats are naturally meticulous about their grooming habits, but after a prolonged period of intense grooming, their tongues and jaw muscles become fatigued. As a result, they may temporarily forget to retract their tongues back into their mouths.
Conclusion
The reasons why cats forget to retract their tongues include relaxation, simply forgetting, fatigue from grooming, and facial structure, among others. If this is temporary and there are no other symptoms, most cases are nothing to worry about. However, if in addition to the tongue being exposed, there are symptoms like excessive drooling, difficulty eating, or panting, it could be issues like gingivitis, oral inflammation, or respiratory diseases, and you should seek medical attention promptly.
