Dear poop collectors, have you ever noticed a cat sticking out its tongue and panting? It opens its mouth like a dog and gasps for air.

Can cats also dissipate heat by sticking out their tongues?

First of all, when a cat sticks out its tongue and gasps, it is not necessarily because it is hot. Because cats’ sweat glands are on their paw pads, the most important part of a cat’s heat dissipation is the paw pads. Sticking out the tongue cannot dissipate heat very effectively. ​​​​​​

Next, let’s talk about several possibilities of cats sticking out their tongues and panting.

Strenuous exercise

When a cat has just exercised strenuously, sticking out its tongue and breathing through its mouth can help it increase its oxygen intake, but it can return to normal in a short time.

Stress response

When a cat is frightened or overly nervous, it will lead to a series of stress reactions such as accelerated heartbeat and increased body temperature. Sticking out the tongue and panting is a stress signal. The owner can put the cat in a quiet environment and do not force the cat to do this. In any case, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately.

Respiratory or heart disease

If a cat suffers from respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, etc., its cardiopulmonary function will be reduced and the respiratory tract will also be affected. When a cat is hypoxic, it cannot inhale enough oxygen through nasal breathing alone. Sticking out its tongue to pant can increase the cat's supply. All in all, sticking your tongue out and gasping for breath is not a normal phenomenon. Once it occurs, it is recommended that the dog owner carefully observe the cause of this phenomenon in the cat. If it cannot be confirmed, it is recommended to take the cat to a doctor in time.