Ever noticed your cat making a funny face, curling back their lips, and almost seeming to grimace? This odd expression might look amusing, but it's actually a sophisticated behavior known as the Flehmen response.
What is the Flehmen Response aka "stinky face"?
The Flehmen response is a way for cats to analyse scents. When your feline friend curls back their lips and opens their mouth slightly, they are exposing the incisive papillae (see image below) two small tubes which lead to a sensory area in the nose called the vomeronasal or Jacobson's organ. This special organ is designed to detect pheromones and other chemical cues in their environment.
Why Do Cats Perform the Flehmen Response?
Cats use the Flehmen response for several reasons:
1. Investigating Scents: Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, and the Flehmen response allows them to get a better read on new or intriguing scents. Whether it's another animal's scent, a new object, or even a human's scent, your cat is just trying to gather more information.
2. Marking Territory: Cats are territorial creatures. By analyzing scents left by other animals, they can determine if another cat has been in their territory and how recently.
3. Mating Behaviors: In the wild, male cats use the Flehmen response to detect pheromones released by females in heat. Even though our domestic cats may not be on the prowl for mates, the behavior persists.
4. Social Interactions: Cats can gather information about other cats through scent. The Flehmen response helps them understand more about their feline friends, such as their identity and emotional state.
When Might You See the Flehmen Response?
You’re most likely to notice your cat’s Flehmen response after they’ve encountered something new or interesting. It might be after sniffing another animal, a new piece of furniture, or even your shoes after you’ve been outside. The expression often includes lip curling, squinting, and sometimes a slight pause as they take in the scent.
Should You Be Concerned?
The Flehmen response is a normal and healthy behavior. It’s your cat’s way of making sense of the world around them. There’s no need for concern unless your cat shows signs of distress or illness, such as excessive drooling, pawing at their mouth, or refusing to eat. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
Encouraging Healthy Exploration
You can support your cat’s natural curiosity by providing a stimulating environment. Introduce new toys, allow safe outdoor exploration, and even offer different scents (like catnip or new plants) for them to investigate. This keeps their senses sharp and their minds engaged.
The Flehmen response is a fascinating glimpse into your cat’s complex sensory world. Next time you see that funny face, remember that your kitty is hard at work, decoding the mysteries of their environment. As always, enjoy the quirky and wonderful behaviors that make your cat unique, and feel confident knowing that this particular behavior is just another way they navigate their world.