Cat Tongue Barbs: Their Purpose & Importance Explained

The feline tongue is adorned with a dense array of tiny, backwardfacing spines, giving it a distinctly rough texture rather than the smooth one we might expect. This unique feature naturally piques our curiosity about the purpose of these spines. This article aims to delve into the various functions of the feline tongue's spines.

What Are the Functions of the Feline Tongue Spines?

The spines on a cat's tongue are known as papillae, which are formed from keratinized cells. There are three main types of papillae, each serving a distinct purpose.

1. Filiform Papillae. These are the most abundant type of papillae on a cat's tongue, covering most of the tongue with varying sizes. The papillae in the front half of the tongue are typically larger and harder, while those closer to the tongue's root are smaller and softer. Notably, the papillae at the tip of the tongue are hollow, aiding in the absorption of liquids.

2. Fungiform Papillae. These papillae are primarily found on the sides and back of the tongue, each with at least 1 to 3 taste buds on their tips. Consequently, the fungiform papillae play a significant role in a cat's sense of taste.

3. Vomerine Papillae. These papillae are mainly located at the back of the tongue, also containing taste buds. They assist cats in discerning various flavors before swallowing their food.

Therefore, the spines on a cat's tongue are of great importance, serving as an indispensable part of their ability to intake liquids and savor flavors. The primary functions of these spines include:

1. Grooming. The spines on a cat's tongue, which point towards the root, act like a comb when the cat licks its fur. This helps in grooming the coat. However, this structure can also lead to the cat's tongue getting coated in fur, which can then be swallowed. The fur that cats ingest must be expelled through vomiting or excretion; otherwise, it can form into hairballs, potentially causing intestinal blockages.

2. Eating Assistance. The papillae on a cat's tongue aid in better food intake, preventing the food from slipping off. These spines also help keep food in place for easier chewing. Moreover, they provide taste and can detect the texture and temperature of the food.

3. Hunting Aid. The spines on a cat's tongue can help secure prey during hunting, allowing the cat to deliver a fatal bite.

These are the functions of the spines on a cat's tongue. In summary, these spines play a significant role in a cat's feeding behavior. Most cats have spines on their tongues, but some may have smooth tongues due to a genetic mutation, which can occur in any cat. Cats with smooth tongues may find grooming and eating more challenging, requiring extra care from their owners. The papillae on a cat's tongue generally do not regress over time.

This article hopes to deepen your understanding of the feline tongue and its spines.