The catslike many other creatures in the animal kingdom, have behaviors that, although they may seem simple, contain deeper meanings. One of these behaviors is yawning, a gesture that we share with humans and that In felines it can have various interpretationsYawning in cats can offer a clearer insight into their well-being and emotions, revealing aspects of their physical and emotional state.
Understanding why cats yawn can help you better interpret their needs and feelings.This behavior may be related to their health, their comfort level in the environment, or their social interaction. By observing these gestures, it is possible to obtain valuable information about how they feel and what things you can do for their well-being.
What are the reasons why cats yawn?
1. Regulate your body temperature
Cats yawn to regulate their body temperature. By yawning, they allow warm air to escape from their body and cool air to enter, helping to keep their temperature stable. This mechanism is especially important for felines, as they are more sensitive to temperature variations compared to humans. Yawning acts as a natural means of balancing their temperature and ensuring their comfort.
2. Avoid falling asleep
A yawn can be an attempt to avoid falling asleep. This gesture helps to quickly inhale a large amount of oxygen, which stimulates blood flow and keeps the cat alert. Thus, when a cat shows signs of tiredness but does not want to succumb to sleep, yawning acts as a strategy to stay awake and active.
3. Prepare for sleep
Contrary to its function of preventing sleep, yawning can also serve to prepare the cat for sleep. By yawning, the feline relaxes its body and settles down to rest. This behavior is a sign that it is ready to relax and settle down in its resting place, whether it is on a bed, sofa or any other comfortable place.
4. Express comfort
Yawning can be a sign that a cat feels comfortable and safe in its environment. By yawning, a feline may be showing that it is at peace and does not pose a threat, which strengthens its emotional bond with its owners. It is a form of non-verbal communication that indicates that the cat is relaxed and happy with its surroundings.
5. Show stress
Cats also yawn when they feel stressed or uncomfortable. This behavior can be a manifestation of discomfort in their environment. If a cat is showing signs of stress, such as not eating or drinking water, yawning can be a way of expressing discomfort or distress.
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6. Feeling upset
When a cat is experiencing pain or physical discomfort, yawning can be one of the signs. If the feline has a problem that prevents it from moving normally or climbing, it may yawn as a way of expressing its discomfort or physical limitation.
7. Oral problems
In young or developing cats, yawning may indicate dental or oral problems. Pain in the mouth or dental problems may lead to frequent yawning as the cat tries to relieve the discomfort in its mouth.
8. Dizziness
Cats traveling in crates may yawn due to motion sickness or discomfort from being confined. This yawning helps to alleviate discomfort associated with movement or feeling confined, providing some relief during travel.
9. Social link
Yawning may also be a way for cats to imitate their owners and strengthen the social bond. By observing and replicating human behavior, felines reinforce the emotional connection with their human companions and feel more integrated into their environment.
10. Boredom
Finally, yawning can be a sign of boredom in cats. Just like humans, felines yawn when they are disinterested or unwilling to play, indicating that they need additional stimulation to stay active and entertained.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
