Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

What does it mean when a cat breathes through its mouth?

Breathes cat Cats mean mouth Pets
0
Posted

What does it mean when a cat breathes through its mouth?

0

Cats have a pair of vomeronasal organs (also called Jacobson’s organs) on the roof of the mouth. When the cat wants to thoroughly investigate a particular scent, she will inhale through her mouth, usually curling her lips up at the same time, and bring the air over the roof of her mouth. When the cat curls her lips like this, she will often squint her eyes and maybe even flatten her ears as she concentrates. This makes her look like she is grimacing. This grimace is called a flehmen reaction. The vomeronasal organs will then analyze the scent molecule by molecule — almost as if the cat is tasting the smell.

Thanksgiving questions

*Sadly, we had to bring back ads too. Hopefully more targeted.