Why Do Cats Sleep with Their Tongues Out?

Cats spend a large part of their day sleeping, so it's possible to see them in different sleeping positions. Among the most noticeable sleeping positions is the one where the cat sticks its tongue out. There are many different reasons why cats stick their tongues out while sleeping: Difficulty breathing or being overly relaxed and happy can all cause their tongues to stick out while sleeping. Of course, there's more! If you are one of those who see your cat sticking its tongue out while sleeping, in this article you can find information about why and in what situations cats stick their tongues out, starting with the answer to the question "Why do cats sleep with their tongues out?".

Cats' Sleeping Behaviors: Sleeping with Their Tongues Out

There are many different reasons why cats stick their tongues out while sleeping. Various factors, ranging from being overly relaxed to potential health problems, can result in them sticking their tongues out while sleeping. Here are the details…

Being Overly Relaxed

The most common reason why both kittens and adult cats stick their tongues out while sleeping is that they feel relaxed. When this sleeping position, which is a tangible reflection of cats' happiness, is encountered, there is usually no need to worry. However, it would be beneficial to monitor the cats' general condition. Cats that do not experience breathing problems, have a good appetite, have not lost their interest in playing, and have no changes in their toilet habits, sticking their tongues out while sleeping is a result of the relaxation of their jaw muscles. Therefore, it can be considered a reflection of happiness and comfort.

Breeding Predisposition

Some cat breeds are known to be more prone to sleeping with their tongues out than others. Himalayan, Birman, and Persian cats can be given as examples of cat breeds that sleep with their tongues out. It would be beneficial to pay attention if facial shape and teeth or jaw structure also lead to different complaints. For similar reasons, mouth and dental problems can frequently be encountered in some breeds. The inability of cats to move their tongues sufficiently or to close their mouths can also cause them to stick their tongues out while sleeping.

Need for Cooling

It is more common to see cats sleeping with their tongues out, especially in hot weather. This symptom, which indicates that they feel the need to cool down, is usually seen together with frequent licking of the fur. Cats sleeping with their tongues out due to the heat may also breathe rapidly at the same time. In such a situation, the ambient temperature should be monitored, and necessary measures should be taken to cool the cat down in a controlled manner. Of course, as always, cats should have uninterrupted access to fresh, clean water in hot weather. You can examine automatic water bowl options here to increase water consumption for cats who do not like to drink stagnant water. Swollen Tongue One of the potential reasons why cats stick their tongues out while sleeping is a swollen tongue. Swollen tongues, which usually occur when they come into contact with a toxic substance or are bitten by insects, are among the possibilities that should be ruled out for cats whose sleep habits have changed recently. Cats with swollen tongues generally also have problems breathing.

Swollen Tongue

One of the potential reasons why cats stick their tongues out while sleeping is a swollen tongue. Swollen tongues, which usually occur when they come into contact with a toxic substance or are bitten by insects, are among the possibilities that should be ruled out for cats whose sleep habits have recently changed. Cats with swollen tongues generally also have breathing problems.

Flehman Response

Another reason why cats stick their tongues out while sleeping is the Flehman response. Besides their noses, cats have an anatomical part that helps them smell, also called the Jacobson organ. Located between the hard palate and the nose, this organ allows cats to deeply perceive smells carried by the wind. If there are smells in their environment that interest them, cats may want to take in these smells in detail and may stick their tongues out while sleeping.

One of the reasons why cats stick their tongues out while sleeping may be nasal congestion. Cats that have difficulty breathing may stick their tongues out and open their mouths while sleeping. Therefore, if you observe that your cat's tongue is sticking out, it is important to closely monitor its general health. In this way, if there are any signs indicating a negative health problem, you can consult a veterinarian without delay.

Why Do Cats Stick Their Tongues Out?

Cats don't only stick their tongues out while sleeping. They may stick their tongues out during the day for various reasons. The reasons why cats stick their tongues out can be listed as follows:

• Stress can cause cats to stick their tongues out. If there is a clear source of stress, it is recommended to try to calm your cat with a gentle voice when it sticks its tongue out. Suddenly touching it can intensify the cat's stress.
• Cats may stick their tongues out when they want to vomit or feel the need to vomit. This behavior is frequently observed when a new food is changed. It is also known that cats may stick their tongues out when they are nauseous.
• Excitement can also cause cats to stick their tongues out.
• It is known that cats with respiratory infections try to breathe more easily by sticking their tongues out. Cats with a history of heart problems, those who are coughing, having difficulty breathing, or whose gums or tongues are turning blue should be taken to a veterinarian without delay.
• Although rare, cats may also stick out their tongues when they consume foods or plants that are toxic to them. You can find detailed information on this topic in our article on Toxic Plants for Cats and Dogs.
• Another reason cats stick out their tongues is to groom themselves. Cats, who usually use the times they are not sleeping or eating to groom themselves, get rid of dead hairs, support their skin health, and make their fur shiny through this instinctive behavior. It is also known that cats who groom themselves may encounter some risks. When the hairs they swallow cannot be naturally expelled from their digestive system, they can turn into clumps that can cause blockages. To prevent hairball formation, it is recommended that cats use malt paste.
• As mentioned above, some health problems experienced by cats can cause them to stick out their tongues. Neurological problems can make tongue control difficult and lead to cats exhibiting behaviors that are considered strange. Typically, neurological problems also manifest themselves with different symptoms. If symptoms such as loss of balance, tremors, coordination problems, head shaking, and muscle weakness are observed, it is best to consult a veterinarian.