Understanding Why Cats Stick Out Their Tongue?

Cats poking their tongues out is arguably one of the cutest sights for cat parents to witness; it’s innocent, playful, and adorable. But why does your cat stick its tongue out? There are various possible meanings behind this mysterious behaviour - your cat could be relaxing, grooming, playing or exploring. On the other hand, it could be due to their genetics or a health issue. In this article, we look at the different reasons why cats stick out their tongues. It’s important that cat parents understand their feline friend’s behaviours in order to know how they are feeling, what they are communicating and whether there are any underlying problems.

Why is your cat sticking its tongue out?

A cat sticking its tongue out is a common and normal behaviour and could be because they are relaxed, grooming themselves, being playful or exploring their surroundings. However, cats may also stick their tongue out due to a dental, respiratory, neurological or other health issue. If your cat’s behaviour is sudden, excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, consult your veterinarian.

Cat’s tongues are brilliant muscular organs, which is why it’s no wonder that they use it for various daily activities and why cat parents may notice it throughout the day. Sometimes, the answer to ‘why is my cat sticking its tongue out’ may simply be because they are ‘blepping.’ The term ‘blepping’ describes cats leaving their tongues hanging out in the middle of an activity, usually due to being distracted by something else. While this is a common behaviour in cats, there are many other reasons why cats stick out their tongues, and it largely depends on the context at the time. It’s important for cat parents to observe their cat closely and identify the situation which causes their cat to stick their tongue out, in order to correctly interpret the meaning. We look at some potential reasons for this behaviour below. 

Your cat is relaxing

You may notice that your cat sticks their tongue out when they’re relaxing and resting - similarly to why your cat may wink at you. As your cat’s body relaxes, their joints and muscles relax too, including their jaw. This can cause their mouth to open slightly and your cat’s tongue may poke out. Once your cat wakes up from their slumber, prepares for physical activities and becomes distracted elsewhere, they will likely retract their tongue.

Your cat is grooming

Your cat’s tongue is an essential tool for their grooming activities. Cats have small and sharp hooks on their tongue known as papillae, which are effective for cats licking themselves clean. Whether they’re removing loose hair or some dirt from their coats, cats often pause regularly while grooming, which could be why you see your cat sticking out their tongue. If your cat keeps licking you, they may be trying to clean you too!

Your cat is being playful

Cats can get really excited while playing, and may display playful behaviours such as sticking out their tongue. Cats also learn behaviours depending on what cat parents reinforce, even unconsciously. If the sight of your cat poking their tongue out makes you smile, laugh or ‘aww’, your cat may continue the behaviour to amuse you, as well as show their love and affection.

Your cat is investigating

We know that cats have an incredible sense of smell, but did you know that they can use the roof of their mouth to smell too? In your cat’s mouth is their Jacobson’s (vomeronasal) organ, which they also use to detect pheromones. Your cat could be sticking their tongue out to open up their airways and investigate their environment and surrounding cats. This is known as the Flehmen response.

Your cat’s genetics

Brachycephalic cat breeds are more likely to stick their tongue out due to their facial anatomy. With smaller mouths, brachycephalic cats may occasionally not fully retract their tongue into their mouth. This could also be the case for cats who are missing their canine teeth.

Your cat has a health issue

While cats sticking out their tongue is normal behaviour, if it has started suddenly, or excessively or is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be a sign of an underlying medical issue. We discuss this further here.

Is it normal for cats to stick their tongue out during play?

Sometimes the answer to why your cat sticks their tongue out is simply that they are feeling playful. If you’re playing with your cat and they stick out their tongue, it could be that they’re feeling enthusiastic about the activity. When your cat is deeply engaged in play, their adrenaline levels surge and as part of their excitement, your cat’s tongue may poke out. 

Cats also learn behaviours depending on the response they receive from cat parents. If you have a positive reaction whenever your cat sticks their tongue out, such as giving them attention by praising, petting or playing with them, this will likely reinforce their behaviour. Your cat may be sticking out their tongue to please you!

Can sticking the tongue out be a sign of a health issue in cats?

Yes, a cat sticking its tongue out can be a subtle sign of something wrong, but it depends on the context. Some underlying health issues of your cat sticking its tongue out are:

• Dental or oral health issues: The most common dental problems in cats include periodontitis and gingivitis, however, cats can also experience abscesses, resorption, broken teeth, wasp stings on their tongue, as well as inflammation and infections, all of which cause discomfort. If your cat is sticking their tongue out and you also notice bad breath, excessive drooling, loss of appetite and signs of pain, you should consult a veterinarian.

• Respiratory health issues: If your cat is sticking their tongue out and pawing at their face, they may require veterinary attention. On the other hand, if it is a respiratory problem, such as a disease, infection or blockage, and your cat sticks out their tongue, check whether it appears to be blue or if your cat has any difficulties with breathing - take them to the vet immediately if they are.

An important part of properly caring for a cat is to observe their usual behaviours closely in order to detect any changes that may indicate an underlying problem. If you’re worried about your cat sticking their tongue out and there are other concerning signs or symptoms, schedule a veterinarian appointment. However, if your cat otherwise appears to be healthy and normal, there’s no need to worry about the behaviour.

Why cats stick out their tongue: FAQ

Do cats stick their tongues out when stressed?

Cats do not commonly stick their tongues out when they’re stressed, however, it can be a unique response in some cats. Usually, if your cat is stressed, you’ll see them hiding, growling, not eating, or grooming excessively. If you think your cat is sticking their tongue out when stressed, try to remove the trigger and create a calming environment.

Are cats happy when they stick their tongue out?

When cats stick out their tongue, it’s usually because they’re happy. This behaviour could be because they’re feeling comfortable and relaxed, or because they’re being playful. Either way, as long as there are no concerning signs or symptoms, and it’s not a new, sudden or excessive behaviour, cats are generally content when they stick their tongue out.

Why is my cat sticking their tongue out and licking?

If your cat is sticking their tongue out and licking, it may be a part of their grooming routine. If the behaviour is excessive, your cat may have irritated skin. In some cases, your cat’s behaviour could be because they’re experiencing pain or discomfort from a dental or digestive problem or a calming signal in response to stress or anxiety.

Why do cats stick their tongue out and breathe fast?

If your cat sticks out their tongue and breathes fast, they may be experiencing a respiratory disease, infection or blockage. Cats may also stick their tongue out and breathe fast if they’re feeling too hot, having an allergic reaction, or experiencing pain or discomfort from an injury, dental issue or underlying medical problem. Contact a veterinarian immediately if concerned.

As a cat parent, it’s normal to worry about your cat’s behaviour - and important too! Knowing why your cat engages in certain behaviours is important in understanding their physical, mental and emotional state, as well as what they are trying to communicate. Remember that while we’ve discussed different meanings behind why cats stick out their tongues, the behaviour itself is entirely normal as long as your cat isn’t displaying any other signs or symptoms. You can also support your cat’s health by serving Sheba® Wet Cat Food, designed to provide complete and essential nutrition through high-quality ingredients and exquisite flavours.