Cat got your tongue?
Peter Carlos, a Florida veterinary technician, revealed an up-close look at a cat’s tongue that has left many people speechless.
In the 12-second clip, posted on Carlos’ Instagram account, he films a feline that appears to be sedated, zooming into the cat’s tongue to show backward-facing spines called papillae.
The video, with more than 35,000 views, has many people wondering the purpose behind the bristle-like tongue feature.
Papillae have tiny keratin protein spines that transfer large amounts of saliva from mouth to fur, explains National Geographic. Keratin is the same material that is made of cat’s claws and human fingernails.
The spines on cat tongues are curved and hollow-tipped, which help them groom themselves and pick up water.
Hook-like papillae covering the entire tongue make it easier for the cats to “remove meat from bones, while also getting the most nutrition in a fast and effective way,” according to the UK site Cat Protection.
While some people find the cat’s tongue disturbing, this feature allows cats to be more independent, unlike other household pets such as dogs.
Felines can take care of themselves for extended periods because their papillae help them feed and groom themselves.
“Our study shows that [cats] are in fact, much more independent than canine companions,” Daniel Mills, professor at Lincoln’s School of Life Sciences, told Economic Times. “Many see a cat as an ideal pet for owners who work long hours.”
The clip left many cat owners in shock over the tabby’s tongue, now understanding why their pet’s affectionate licks felt like sandpaper.
“So that’s why they say cat tongues are rough,” one confessed.
“That looks terrifying,” another admitted. “This was soooo satisfying to watch.”
“Is it just me or does anyone else find cat kisses extra special,” gushed a pet owner.