Have you ever wondered why your cat always has its tongue out? It’s not because they’re trying to be funny (although we think it is).
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Reasons for a Cat’s Tongue Being Out
There are a few reasons why your cat might always have its tongue out. One reason could be that it is trying to cool down. Cats do not sweat like humans do, so they rely on their tongues to help them regulate their body temperature. Another reason could be that your cat is feeling anxious or stressed. When cats are feeling anxious, they often stick their tongues out as a way to calm themselves down. If your cat is always sticking its tongue out, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet to see if there might be an underlying medical condition.
Panting
One of the reasons your cat may have its tongue out is because it is panting. While this may seem odd, as cats don’t sweat like humans do, they do pant to regulate their body temperature. If your cat is panting heavily, this may be a sign of heatstroke and you should take them to the vet as soon as possible.
Grooming
One of the most common reasons a cat’s tongue is out is because they are grooming themselves. When a cat licks their fur, they are not only cleaning themselves, but they are also cooling off. A cat’s tongue has tiny spines on it called papillae. These spines help to remove dirt, excess hair, and other things from the coat. The papillae also help to stimulate the skin, which can promote blood circulation and help to keep the coat healthy.
Heatstroke
One possible reason your cat may have its tongue out is heatstroke. Heatstroke occurs when a cat’s body temperature gets too high and they are unable to regulate their own body temperature. Symptoms of heatstroke in cats include panting, drooling, lethargy, and weakness. If you think your cat may be suffering from heatstroke, you should take them to the vet immediately.
What to Do If Your Cat’s Tongue Is Always Out
Most cats will have their tongues out occasionally, but if your cat’s tongue is always out, it could be a sign of a medical condition. If your cat’s tongue is always out and it is also drooling, it could be a sign of an oral problem. If your cat is a senior, it could be a sign of dementia. If you are concerned about your cat’s tongue, make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Take your cat to the vet
If your cat’s tongue is always out, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition. Take your cat to the vet for an exam to rule out any medical causes.
Make sure your cat is hydrated
One of the most common reasons a cat’s tongue is always out is dehydration. If your cat isn’t drinking enough water, it can lead to a condition called chronic renal failure, which makes a cat’s body hold on to less water.Dehydration can also cause your cat’s body to produce more concentrated urine, which can irritate the tissues in its urinary tract and make it more likely to get infections.
Keep your cat cool
When a cat’s tongue is always out, it’s a sign that they’re too hot. While all cats sweat through their paw pads, they mostly cool themselves off by panting through their open mouths. If your cat is panting excessively with their tongue out, it’s a sign that they’re overheating and you should take steps to cool them down.
One way to keep your cat cool is to provide them with a cool, damp towel to lie on. You can also mist them with water or give them small amounts of water to drink. If your cat is very overheated, you may need to place them in a cool bath or use an air conditioner to lower the temperature of the room. If your cat’s tongue remains out even after taking these steps, it’s important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
