Cats naturally have a curious nature. Therefore, they may stick out their tongues when they are interested in something or are in a happy state. Additionally, this is observed when pets smell a pleasant scent. Along with a protruding tongue, the animal’s lips will be directed towards this scent.
There is an explanation for this feature. Cats can smell not only with their noses but also with their tongues. While air molecules are being touched by a set of lips. You may not be aware that there are receptors in your pet’s tongue that have odors. They are less developed than the nose. Trying to perceive a pleasant smell, cats use every method possible.
Another reason why a four-legged pet sticks out its tongue is during the process of changing milk teeth. But this can only be observed in kittens with short muzzles. Many owners are alarmed, but this is unnecessary.
Young animals may stick out their tongues when they are hunting. Natural instincts, fascination, excitement, and a desire to catch the scent – all of this leads to a wrinkled face. At a subconscious level, the tongue protrudes, and the cat does it involuntarily. The same thing happens with gaming-addicted animals to the extent that they can’t control their language. Even more so, when the game ends, the cat will still walk with its tongue sticking out.
Another reason for this phenomenon may be attributed to a runny nose or temporary loss of smell due to other reasons. The animal still wants to smell. Since the nose is temporarily not functioning, the pet uses its tongue.
Due to their curiosity, cats can smell many different objects for hours. Spices, medical supplies, as well as household chemicals are used. Some of these ingredients, for example, valerian, act intoxicatingly on a cat. She walks around with her tongue sticking out until the condition returns to normal.
Cats of the brachycephalic type stick out their tongues without significant reasons. There is nothing to worry about. The structure of the head makes the tongue not fit completely in the animal’s mouth. Brachycephals are known for their short muzzles (depressed). At the same time, the lower jaw is slightly advanced due to incorrect bite. Brachycephalus includes Scottish, British, Persian, Greek, and exotic cats.
