Cats' Tongue-Flicking: Why They Do It & What It Means

When Do Cats Prolong Their Tongue Out?

Cats are incredibly clean creatures, and they frequently use their tongues to groom their fur. During this grooming process, you might notice your cat frequently sticking out its tongue to maintain cleanliness. Sometimes, they might forget to pull it back, leaving their tongue curled out and extended.

Drinking Water

When cats drink water, they skillfully use their tongues to form a water column and quickly bring it into their mouths. This is also the case when they eat large pieces of meat that are difficult to chew, where they will use their tongues to lap up the food. The rough texture of a cat's tongue, with its keratinized bumps, effectively rubs against the surface of the food, scraping off or softening the meat particles.

Desire for Food

When a cat is hungry or sees you eating, you might see them stick out their tongue and lick their lips. This is an unconscious action. If you notice your cat doing this and reward them with food, they may start to lick their lips as a signal for hunger in the future.

Hot Weather

During the hot summer months, you might observe cats, much like dogs, sticking out their tongues to pant and cool down. Cats primarily rely on radiation and conduction to dissipate heat during summer. You often see them lying on cooler floors to transfer heat away from their bodies. On particularly hot days or during periods of physical activity, cats may stick out their tongues to expel hot air in large, rapid breaths.

Sleeping

Cats may also stick out their tongues while sleeping, possibly in a dream state or simply because they are deeply asleep, with their brains in a state of unconsciousness, unable to control their tongue's position.

Adorable Antics

Occasionally, cats may stick out their tongues without any apparent reason, simply to be adorable. It's a charming and involuntary behavior that adds to their endearing charm.