Why do cats stick out the tip of their tongue?

Many pet owners have probably witnessed their cat sticking out their tongue. It looks very funny, but it raises concerns: what if something is wrong with the animal. What could be the reason for this habit?

What to do when a cat’s tongue is constantly sticking out? If such a problem worries the owner of a Persian cat or Exotic, as well as a cat that has congenital bite problems, a protruding tongue may be due to the anatomical structure of the jaw. Nothing can be done about this, but there is no danger to the animal in this either. In this case, a cat with a protruding tongue will simply delight others with a pretty face.

What causes cats to stick their tongue out most often?

The tongue for a cat is not only an important organ, but also a “comb” for wool. It happens that the animal washes too hard and simply forgets to return the tongue to its place. This usually lasts a few minutes, then the cat becomes aware of the problem. You can help her by lightly touching her tongue – so she will react faster.

The habit of sticking out the tongue can appear in the summer or at the time the heating is turned on. The fact is that the tongue helps cats regulate their body temperature. When an animal sticks out its tongue, it thus cools its body. Therefore, it is important to monitor the temperature in the room where the cat lives, regularly pour cool water into her bowl and take measures so that she does not overheat. For the same reason, the cat sleeps with its tongue hanging out, for example, if it fell asleep on the radiator.

When a sticking out tongue should cause concern

However, sometimes a protruding tongue should really alert. It can indicate serious health problems. For example:

• Heart failure. The cat shows the tongue in case of heart problems. At the same time, the animal loses its appetite, and the tongue itself changes color from pink to white or bluish. 
• Kidney diseases. Breathing problems and, as a result, a protruding tongue can appear with kidney failure. The urine of the animal acquires the smell of ammonia, vomiting and stool disorders are possible.
• Injuries. The cat may injure the gum or tongue and experience discomfort when touching the wounds.
• Infectious diseases. If the cat not only walks with his tongue hanging out, but also coughs, sneezes and wheezes during inhalation and exhalation, then perhaps these are symptoms of an infectious disease.
• Oncology. Neoplasms are possible in the oral cavity, in the region of the palate, on the jaw and in the larynx. These diseases are more common in cats older than 10 years. 
• Foreign body in the mouth or throat. A stuck fish bone or small toy can be the cause of a protruding tongue.

If a cat’s tongue sticks out, this in itself is not a sign of illness. As a rule, others accompany him. If you find several of the above symptoms, be sure to contact your veterinarian for advice.

See also:

Help for a cat with heat and heat stroke

Can cats get colds or the flu?

What is the difference between cats and dogs

How to stop a cat from begging for food