Why your cat's tongue feels like sandpaper and how it helps them survive

Nature · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: A cat's tongue is not just for tasting. It is a sophisticated grooming tool covered in tiny, claw-like spines called papillae. These structures are made of keratin, the same material as human fingernails, and they serve a vital purpose in the life of an ambush predator that must remain scent-free.

The sandpaper texture of a cat's tongue comes from papillae, which are small, hook-shaped spines that all point toward the throat. Research conducted by teams at MIT and Georgia Tech highlights that these spines are shaped like miniature cat claws with sharp ends. This design allows them to penetrate tangles and knots in fur, effectively teasing them apart during the cat's extensive grooming sessions. Cats spend up to half of their waking hours cleaning themselves, a behavior that is essential for their survival as ambush predators. By removing loose fur, parasites, and debris, cats ensure they remain odorless, preventing prey from detecting their presence.

Beyond detangling, the papillae help redistribute natural oils produced by the cat's skin, which provide the fur with a degree of waterproofing. This grooming process is so effective that veterinarians often advise against washing cats, as it strips away these protective oils. The mechanical efficiency of these spines has even inspired new technology. Doctoral candidate Alexis Noel, who studied the structure, created a 3D-printed model of a cat's tongue at 400 percent scale. She discovered that the model was significantly easier to clean than a traditional hairbrush, as the aligned spines allowed trapped hair to be removed with a simple swipe. This research could eventually lead to improved cleaning tools or soft robotics.

The tongue also plays a critical role in how cats drink. Because cats have wide mouths that allow them to sink their teeth deep into prey, they struggle to create the suction necessary to drink like other mammals. Instead, they use their tongues to flick the surface of the water, creating a column that they bite before it collapses. Researchers, including Sunghwan 'Sunny' Jung, used high-speed video to observe this process, noting that cats typically lap about four times per second. By biting the water column at the precise moment, they manage to drink efficiently while keeping their faces dry.

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