Do Cats Really Dislike Hot Food?
We often describe someone who is afraid to eat hot food as having a "cat's tongue." This makes you wonder: do cats really dislike eating hot food?
The phrase "cat's tongue" is commonly used to refer to people who are sensitive to hot temperatures when eating. But is there any truth behind this expression when it comes to cats themselves?
In reality, cats have a very different sensitivity to food temperature compared to humans. While they might avoid extremely hot food for comfort or safety reasons, they usually prefer their food warm rather than cold. This preference is thought to mimic the temperature of freshly caught prey in the wild.
So, while the phrase "cat's tongue" has become a metaphor for sensitivity to hot food, cats themselves do not necessarily hate warm food—in fact, they might enjoy it.
Preferred Eating Temperature for Cats
When it comes to the temperature of their food, cats have clear preferences. In fact, food that is too cold or too hot is not suitable for them.
Cats tend to favor food that is close to room temperature or slightly warmed. This is because extreme temperatures can be uncomfortable, as well as potentially harmful to their sensitive mouths and digestive systems.
Offering food at the right temperature not only encourages a cat to eat but also supports their overall health and well-being. Keeping this in mind can help cat owners provide a better dining experience for their feline companions.
Why Most Mammals Are Sensitive to Hot Food
In fact, it is not only cats; almost all mammals can be considered to have a "cat tongue" sensitivity. In the natural world, unless under special circumstances, hot food is almost nonexistent. As a result, animals rarely encounter food that is hotter than their own body temperature, which leads to their intolerance to hot food.
Humans, on the other hand, are able to tolerate hot food because they have learned to cook with fire. This ability to prepare food by heating it has made humans more capable of accepting and consuming hot meals compared to other mammals.
The Origin of the Term "Cat Tongue"
The term "cat tongue" traces back to Japan's Edo period. At that time, cats were kept at home mainly for catching mice, but cat food as we know it today did not exist yet. Most cats were fed homemade meals, such as food soaked in piping hot miso soup.
When owners saw that their cats could not eat immediately because the food was too hot, they began to use the term "cat tongue" to describe people who are cautious about eating hot food, fearing it might burn their mouths.
Feeding Cats with Sensitive Tongues: Should You Give Them Cold Food?
So, when it comes to cats that have "sensitive tongues," should you feed them cold food? In fact, cats prefer their food to be around 35°C (95°F). They generally won't eat food that is too cold. If the food is kept at room temperature, there's usually no need to worry. However, wet food that has been refrigerated might need to be warmed up before serving.
If you usually encounter any of the following three situations, you can also appropriately warm up food for your cat:
1. When Cats Lose Their Appetite
Cats have a highly developed sense of smell, which they use to determine whether food is appealing or not. When food has been frozen, it almost loses its scent, which fails to stimulate a cat's appetite. On the other hand, cats tend to be more interested in food that is slightly warm and fragrant, as it activates their sense of smell and encourages them to eat.
2. Feeding Tips for Senior Cats and Cats with Digestive Issues
When feeding older cats or cats with sensitive digestive systems, it is important to avoid giving them food that is too cold. Cold food can cause the body to become chilled, which may lead to diarrhea. Therefore, gently warming the food before serving can help ensure their comfort and safety.
3. Keeping Desert Cats Warm During Cold Weather
When the weather turns cold, desert cats are especially sensitive to the chill. These cats, accustomed to warm desert climates, often feel uncomfortable and cold during winter or on chilly days.
To help them stay warm and comfortable, it is a good idea to provide desert cats with warmed food during the cold season. Offering heated meals not only nourishes them but also helps maintain their body temperature, ensuring they feel cozy despite the cold outside.
In summary, making small adjustments like warming their food can greatly improve the well-being of desert cats in cold conditions. This simple care tip ensures they remain healthy and comfortable throughout the winter months.
Ways to Heat Cat Food
There are many methods to heat food, such as using a double boiler or microwaving it for a few seconds. Dry food generally does not require heating, but if you want to make it more delicious for your cat, you can soften it with warm water or pour a little heated meat broth over it to enhance the aroma and increase your cat's appetite.
