Why do cats stick out their tongues when you run a comb through their fur? - briefly
Cats may stick out their tongues when you run a comb through their fur as a way to taste the air or to show discomfort. This behavior is often a response to the sensation of grooming or to detect unfamiliar scents on the comb.
Why do cats stick out their tongues when you run a comb through their fur? - in detail
Cats are known for their fastidious grooming habits, but sometimes they exhibit behaviors that can seem puzzling to their human companions. One such behavior is sticking out their tongues when a comb is run through their fur. This action is not a sign of discomfort or distress but rather a natural response rooted in their grooming instincts and sensory experiences.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that cats have a highly developed sense of touch and taste. Their tongues are covered with tiny, backward-facing spines called papillae, which help them to clean their fur and remove debris. When a comb is run through their fur, it can stimulate these papillae, triggering a response similar to what they experience during self-grooming. The sensation of the comb can be pleasurable, akin to a gentle massage, prompting the cat to stick out its tongue as part of its grooming ritual.
Additionally, cats often lick their fur to distribute natural oils and keep their coat smooth and healthy. The act of combing can mimic this process, encouraging the cat to lick and groom further. By sticking out their tongues, cats are essentially continuing their grooming routine, ensuring that their fur remains clean and well-maintained. This behavior is instinctual and reflects the cat's natural inclination to keep itself clean and presentable.
Moreover, the act of grooming is not just about physical cleanliness but also about comfort and relaxation. For cats, grooming is a soothing activity that can help them reduce stress and anxiety. When a comb is run through their fur, it can provide a similar calming effect, leading the cat to stick out its tongue as a sign of contentment and relaxation. This behavior is often observed in cats that are well-socialized and comfortable with human interaction.
It is also worth noting that cats have a unique way of experiencing the world through their senses. The sensation of a comb running through their fur can be both tactile and olfactory, engaging their sense of touch and smell. By sticking out their tongues, cats are able to better process these sensory inputs, enhancing their overall grooming experience. This multisensory engagement is a testament to the complexity of feline behavior and their intricate sensory systems.
In summary, when cats stick out their tongues during combing, they are engaging in a natural and instinctual behavior rooted in their grooming habits and sensory experiences. This action is a sign of comfort, relaxation, and the cat's innate desire to maintain its hygiene and well-being. Understanding this behavior can help cat owners appreciate the depth of feline instincts and the importance of grooming in a cat's life.